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 begins on August 1, draws about half a million attendees each year, many of whom pass through Colorado en route to the event.
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 can expect increased patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and a greater law enforcement presence aimed at preventing impaired driving.
Motorcycles make up less than three percent of vehicles on Colorado roads but accounted for nearly a quarter of all traffic fatalities in the state last year. In total, there were 165 motorcycle-related deaths in Colorado in 2024. 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.
“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 on Colorado roads; nearly half occurred during summer months. Of those who died in these incidents, 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 also reminds all drivers that operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous. While most Coloradans do not drive impaired, last year’s Sturgis Rally enforcement period resulted in 359 DUI arrests statewide and seven impaired-related motorcyclist deaths during August.
In response to an increase in drivers refusing toxicology tests after DUI arrests—a violation under Colorado’s Expressed Consent Law—CDOT has launched an educational campaign about legal consequences for refusal. By driving in Colorado, individuals automatically consent to such testing if arrested for DUI; refusal can lead to penalties intended to support road safety efforts across the state. More information about this law can be found at https://www.codot.gov/choosetotest.
