CDOT & The Cut on Location Kick-Off Motorcycle Rider Safety Campaign

STATEWIDE – With the 2022 riding season underway, CDOT is partnering with The Cut on Location and Performance Cycle of Colorado to remind motorcycle riders to stay safe on Colorado’s roads by wearing a helmet. According to the campaign, the only cuts motorcycle riders should be getting this summer is from a barber. To date this year, 32 riders have been killed on Colorado Roadways.

Taking to the roads has become more dangerous for motorcyclists in recent years. In 2021, there were 137 motorcyclists killed on Colorado roadways which accounted for 20% of all traffic fatalities. Most riders were not wearing helmets. In addition, 2020 was the deadliest year on record with 140 motorcyclists killed that year. 

“Without a helmet, motorcyclist survivability goes down substantially. We want all riders to take the precautions to make sure they return home after each ride,” said Darrell Lingk, Director of the Highway Safety Office at CDOT. “No matter how far the ride is, we encourage riders to always wear a helmet.”   

“Motorcycle safety is especially important to our family,” said Crissy Chase, owner of The Cut on Location. “My husband survived a motorcycle crash because he chose to wear his helmet and we’re honored to partner with CDOT for this important safety campaign.”

"Riding a motorcycle has become more dangerous each year,” stated Col. Matthew Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Taking the key precautions like wearing a helmet and passing the training for your license is imperative for all of our riders on Colorado’s roads.”

The Colorado State Patrol can help riders develop new skills through the Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST). For more information, visit www.comost.com. 

“We are thrilled to partner with CDOT again this year to spread the word about motorcycle safety,” said Nichole Waddill, co-owner of Performance Cycle of Colorado. “It’s important that every motorcycle rider on Colorado’s roads is protected by wearing a helmet.”

Earlier this month, CDOT launched the Aftermath campaign to underscore the importance of wearing a helmet. The campaign addresses misconceptions about wearing helmets, such as helmets being too restrictive. 

CDOT also reminds vehicle drivers to use caution around motorcycles. This includes carefully checking blind spots and using extra caution at intersections since motorcycles can be hard to see. In addition, it is advised that drivers never follow motorcycles too closely. 

In addition to wearing helmets, riders can do the following to stay safe:  

Get a license endorsement. 

Getting a motorcycle license endorsement keeps the motorcyclist in compliance with state law and verifies the motorcyclist has the basic skills to operate a motorcycle on a roadway.   

Wear proper gear.  

Proper gear includes a helmet, boots that cover the ankles, riding pants and jacket, gloves and eye protection. 

Receive professional training.  

All motorcyclists can receive professional training. Long time riders are encouraged to attend training classes for a refresher every few years.  

Follow all traffic laws.  

All motorcyclists are required to follow the rules of the road. In Colorado, lane splitting is illegal.  

Ride sober.  

Even one drink can decrease reaction times, coordination, vision, judgement and concentration, all of which are crucial when operating a motorcycle.