Colorado Sees Mixed Progress on Road Safety as Cycling Deaths Drop, but Motorcycle Fatalities Surge
Colorado's roads are showing a complex safety picture in 2025, with bicycle fatalities dropping 38% while motorcycle deaths continue a troubling upward trend, according to recent data from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).
As warm weather brings more two-wheeled travelers to Colorado's scenic roadways, safety experts and legal professionals are highlighting both encouraging progress and concerning challenges for our state's cyclists and motorcyclists.
A Tale of Two Trends
The good news: Colorado's bicycle fatalities have decreased 38% compared to last year, suggesting recent infrastructure investments and safety campaigns may be paying off. However, the broader picture remains concerning, with overall pedestrian and cyclist fatalities up 78% since 2015.
For Colorado's motorcycle community, the statistics are particularly alarming. CDOT data shows motorcycle fatalities have surged 57% over the past decade, raising serious concerns among safety advocates and local communities.
"A 38% drop is a significant decrease and suggests that safety campaigns, infrastructure improvements, and public awareness may be making a difference," notes Stephen J. Burg, a prominent Colorado trial attorney. "However, these numbers don't always reflect the volume of legal or insurance cases."
New Laws and Safety Measures
Colorado has recently implemented several measures to protect vulnerable road users. The state recently passed a lane filtering law for motorcyclists, adding to existing protections such as:
- Mandatory 3-foot passing distance for cyclists
- Required use of hand signals by cyclists
- Helmet requirements for motorcyclists under 18
- Protective eye gear requirements for all motorcyclists
Safety Tips for Colorado Riders
With peak riding season occurring from May to September across the Front Range, experts recommend Colorado cyclists and motorcyclists:
- Always wear appropriate safety gear
- Maintain visibility with reflective clothing and proper lighting
- Follow all traffic laws and signals
- Seek immediate medical attention after any collision
- Document all accidents with photos and police reports
For Colorado families enjoying our state's outdoor lifestyle, these safety measures are crucial as more riders take to the roads during the warmer months. Whether commuting in downtown Denver or enjoying weekend rides through Garden of the Gods, staying informed about safety protocols and legal rights can help protect our community's cyclists and motorcyclists.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
