Last year, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) saw 140 motorcycle fatalities in Colorado — the highest ever recorded in the state.

Thankfully, this year is looking more promising. According to a press release from CDOT, motorcycle deaths are down 18%. So far, there have only been 59 motorcycle fatalities in 2021, compared to 72 at this time last year.

The agency is hoping to further this positive trend with the launch of a new campaign: Some Things are Hard to See. Starting on Wednesday (July 21), the initiative aims to spread awareness about how difficult it is to spot motorcycles on the road.

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Motorcyclists are particularly at risk when turning left at intersections, where 't-bone' crashes are common.

"Every one of these motorcycle crashes could have been prevented," said Darrel Lingk, CDOT's Office of Transportation Safety Director, in the release. "Taking a moment to check blind spots and using extra caution when pulling into an intersection can be the difference between life and death for a motorcyclist."

In order to prevent motorcycle deaths, the agency recommends practicing the following:

  • When following a motorcyclist, give them extra space.
  • Do not encroach on the lane of a motorcyclist.
  • Take precautions when turning left at an intersection.
  • Look for motorcyclists when turning, changing lanes, or merging.
  • Do not drive distracted or impaired.

CDOT is also encouraging motorcyclists to prioritize their own safety by wearing a helmet, following the speed limit, donning the proper gear, and taking care of other riders on the road.

In 2020, Larimer and Weld counties saw a total of 17 motorcycle fatalities. Learn more about motorcycle safety here.

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