The traffic fatality numbers for 2015 are in, and things don’t look pretty. The state of Colorado had 545 traffic related deaths last year, which is an almost 12 percent increase over the number of deaths in 2014. Motorcyclists were a record-breaking contributor to these numbers, and now state officials are concerned about how they can bring these numbers down in 2016.

Colorado Motorcycle Fatalities Are Up

The year of 2015 saw 104 motorcyclists die in traffic incidents—2014 only saw 94 deaths in comparison. This increasing trend of motorcycle deaths goes all the way back to 2010, and considering that this is the first year since 2008 that more than 500 people have died in Colorado road accidents, it means that motorcycle crashes are a significant factor in the increased fatalities.

How Are State Officials Fixing This Problem?

In 2015 the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) launched their Live to Ride campaign to help spread the word about motorcycle safety and to try to educate drivers as well as riders. However, the rise in motorcycle deaths is a sobering figure that challenges the effectiveness of their program, but CDOT refuses to waiver.

CDOT suggests the fatality increase is due to lower gas prices, making it cheaper for Americans to hit the road. Some experts think a willingness to ride in bad weather conditions has increased biker fatalities. State law makers have said they are considering new laws to attack this problem, but CDOT insists that the strengthening of education programs will be enough.

As responsible Coloradoans, we must do our part as well. Spread the word and remind your friends and family to drive safe, ride safe, and always look twice. 2016 has only just begun, so we still have enough time to make sure everyone comes home safe from their rides this year.