As the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota approaches, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is urging motorcyclists traveling through Colorado to prioritize safety by riding sober and wearing helmets. The rally, which draws about half a million participants each year, will take place on August 1, with many riders expected to pass through the state.
From July 31 to August 12, CDOT will join forces with the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and 56 local law enforcement agencies for “The Heat Is On” DUI enforcement period. During this time, motorists may encounter increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and more officers on duty.
Although motorcycles make up less than three percent of vehicles on Colorado roads, they accounted for nearly a quarter of all traffic fatalities in the state last year—165 deaths in total. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are significantly more likely to die in crashes compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. CDOT is encouraging both riders and drivers to exercise caution during travel related to the rally by staying alert and sharing the road.
“Increased highway traffic, a concerning lack of helmet use and the risk of impaired riding set the stage for potentially dangerous travel both to and from Sturgis Rally,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Whether you’re behind handlebars or a steering wheel, never drive impaired. It’s the best way to ensure the safety of yourself and others on our roadways.”
Last year saw 2,345 motorcycle crashes in Colorado; almost half occurred during summer months. Of those who died in motorcycle crashes last year, 44 percent were not wearing helmets.
“Drunk driving deaths are 100% preventable. Yet, tragically, 36 motorcyclists lost their lives on Colorado roads in impaired driving-related crashes last year,” said CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk. “Your safety is important — sober riding saves lives.”
CDOT reminds all motorists that operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous. During last year’s Sturgis Rally enforcement period alone there were 359 DUI arrests statewide and seven impaired-related motorcyclist deaths reported in August.
To further address impaired driving concerns, CDOT has launched an educational campaign about Colorado’s Expressed Consent Law—which states that anyone driving in Colorado automatically consents to a toxicology test if arrested for DUI. Refusing such a test is illegal and can hinder efforts to keep roads safe from impaired drivers. More information about this law can be found at https://codot.gov/choosetotest.
