CSP sees increase in motorcycle crashes

(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) reported a rise in motorcycle crashes in the first two weeks of July.

Troopers have investigated 135 fatal crashes from January 1 through July 16 with 21 of those involving a motorcycle. However, when CSP isolated the first two weeks of July, they found that number had doubled with 16 crashes and 37.5% or six of those involving a motorcycle.

“Riding a motorcycle comes with greater risk than driving a car or truck due to the lack of safety features, including airbags and seatbelts. Riders are simply more vulnerable,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This underscores the responsibility that every rider must assume for their own safety. Receiving ongoing training, wearing protective gear, and adhering to the rules of the road – these are the necessary steps for every rider.”

Due to the increase in riders during the warmer weather months, the CSP’s Southwest District began to track serious injuries and fatal motorcycle crashes.

Colorado offers some of the most scenic and popular motorcycle rides, including routes like the San Juan Skyway National Scenic Byway and Santa Fe Trail.

Between Jan. 1 and July 17, troopers in District 5 — Southwest Colorado — responded and investigated 18 serious injury or fatal crashes involving a motorcycle. Most riders were from Colorado but not always from that region, 61% of riders did have an MC endorsement and wore a helmet.

Troopers advise riders to follow posted traffic routes, some common hazards riders in the Western Slope should watch out for during their ride are:

• Blind Corners with sheer rock faces next to the road.
• Narrow shoulders or no shoulder at all with sharp drop-offs.
• Rocks, gravel, and other debris from snow melt.
• Switchbacks and tight corners with little preparation.
• Congestion from RVs and vehicles towing boats and ATVs.
• Potholes, bumps, and weather-damaged surfaces
• Wildlife

“It’s not the number of years you’ve owned a motorcycle that builds mastery; it’s the actual time spent learning how to control, corner, emergency brake and practice evasive maneuvers,” said Packard. “Advanced motorcycle courses are a fantastic way to learn the best techniques without building bad habits while increasing skills to help you enjoy the ride.”

CSP will continue to monitor traffic crashes and fatalities during the 100 deadliest days of summer, the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During these 100 days, law enforcement sees an increase in traffic crashes and fatalities, with July frequently being the peak month for various crash types investigated by CSP.

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