For motorcycle riders in Colorado, 2026 is shaping up as the deadliest year in nearly a decade.
Between January and March, 15 motorcyclists died in crashes, the most during that period since 2017, according to data.
CDOT director Shoshana Lew called it “an alarming increase” in an agency statement on Friday. And Col. Matthew Packard, chief of , urged motorcyclists to wear safety gear before hitting the road. “Safety is a shared responsibility on our roadways.”
In 2025, 148 motorcyclists were killed on Colorado roads, CDOT records show. Thatap 21% of all traffic deaths. Motorcycle rider fatalities have increased by nearly 90% over the past 15 years, CDOT officials said. Since 2015, 58% of the fatalities have occurred between June and September.
The spike in fatal crashes during the first three months of 2026 follows an increase in crashes and fatalities attributed to Colorado’s relatively dry, clear road conditions and temperatures above freezing in November and December, which led to motorcyclists extending their riding.
Colorado State Patrol leaders in January raised concerns. Historically, motorcycle crashes decreased in November and December. But in 2025, state data shows above-average crashes, with four more fatal crashes than the average in November, five more crashes causing injuries, and 12 more motorcycle crashes overall.
Nearly half of the motorcyclists killed in Colorado over the past five years weren’t wearing helmets – the main way to reduce serious injury and death, CDOT records show. The highest percentages of fatalities involving motorcyclists not wearing helmets occurred in Weld and Pueblo counties.
Nationwide, speed and alcohol have been significant contributing in motorcycle crashes, according to the . In Colorado, more than than 26% of the 2025 motorcycle fatalities involved impairment, CDOT officials said.
They’re stepping up a safety campaign, emphasizing that car and truck drivers must use caution around motorcycles.
Here are CDOT’s safety tips for riders and drivers:
- Observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit
- Always drive and ride sober – even one drink can affect motorists
- Avoid distractions, such as phones, that take eyes off the road
- Yield to motorcyclists, especially while turning at intersections
- Wear high-visibility personal protective gear and proper helmets
