Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) report that motorcycle fatalities remain a serious concern on state roadways. So far in 2025, 61 motorcyclists have died in crashes, and 29 of them were not wearing helmets. CSP shared updated data with CBS Colorado, highlighting a troubling trend over the last five years:
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2020: 140 deaths | 74 without helmets
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2021: 137 deaths | 76 without helmets
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2022: 149 deaths | 76 without helmets
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2023: 135 deaths | 68 without helmets
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2024: 165 deaths | 73 without helmets
CDOT urges motorcyclists to wear proper protective gear, including a helmet, heavy jacket, boots, and pants, warning that riding in just a T-shirt and shorts significantly increases the risk of severe injury. “Wearing that protective gear could be the difference between life and death in a crash,” said Sam Cole, CDOT’s Traffic Safety Manager. He added that many riders suffer permanent brain injuries after hitting their heads on the pavement without helmets.
CDOT also warns that the 100 deadliest days of summer remain a high-risk period for riders. Speeding and impairment are two of the biggest contributors to these fatalities, with 20% of motorcycle deaths in 2024 involving impaired riders. Impairment includes alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs, and any substance that affects judgment and reaction time.
CSP emphasizes that small actions—such as drivers watching out for riders and riders practicing safer habits—can reduce the number of fatalities. Officials also remind motorcyclists that lane splitting is illegal in Colorado, meaning riders cannot weave between moving vehicles on highways or roads.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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