COLORADO – The Colorado State Patrol is reminding motorcycle riders safety is crucial while on the roadways and that excessive speed can be detrimental when trying to avoid hazards.
In 2022, there were 82 motorcycle fatalities on Colorado roadways, compared to 78 fatalities in 2021, which is a 5% increase.
“As a motorcycle rider myself, I find it even more imperative to be aware of what other drivers are doing around you,” said Master Trooper Gary Cutler, a former member of the Colorado State Patrol Motor Unit and public information officer. “Ensuring you maintain the proper speed on a motorcycle helps avoid hazards that lead to injury or fatalities.”
Motorcycle riders can prevent accidents or death by being aware of their surroundings, including staying out of blind spots of nearby vehicles and maintaining proper speeds. If you are speeding, it's difficult to be able to react safely and quickly to hazards.
In addition, it’s imperative for motor vehicle drivers to check their blind spots and always use caution around motorcycles.
To prevent motorcycle crashes, follow the below tips:
- Allow extra space when following a motorcycle
- Allow motorcycles the full width of a lane at all times.
- Use extra caution when turning left at an intersection - motorcycles can be hard to see from a distance.
- Always check for motorcycles before turning, changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- Never drive distracted or impaired.
The Colorado State Patrol in conjunction with the state of Colorado offers Motorcycle Operator Safety Training for basic riders, advanced raiders and three-wheel riding courses. Beginners to advanced riders who just want to refresh their skills can go to https://coloradocareplanning.org/colorado-most-program/ for more information and to sign up for a course.
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Troopers continue to take a low tolerance approach to lane violations while launching a yearlong campaign called “Stay in Your Lane.” This campaign is designed to remind people to control their lane position based on their current driving environment. This campaign also aims to bring attention to three of the most common and avoidable behaviors that contribute to lane violations – driving aggressively, driving distracted or driving while impaired. |
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more.