It’s August and the 77th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has started! This year’s festivities kicked off a little earlier than usual—on Friday August 4th the be exact—but the party lasts for 10 days. That means there is still time for riders to go out and enjoy the fun, and the motorcycling attorneys at the Metier Law Firm have a few details you need to know before you head out.
Heading to Sturgis this Year? Here’s What You Need to Know
- Highway Construction– I-90 is the main artery to the Sturgis Rally and the surrounding area, so knowing about areas under construction will do wonders for your ride. Expect construction between Exit 44 and the stretch between Little Elk Creek and Elk Creek. There is also construction on the Tilford exit (Exit 40) as well as single lanes at the Exit 14 interchange on the overpass.
- The Crowd– This year is expected to be a lighter year for attendance. In 2015, 739,000 people showed up for Sturgis. Last year, that number fell to 463,000. An average year for attendance at the rally usually ranges from 500,000 to 600,000. This year local businesses say they have fewer reservations than they usually do, but there are a few businesses claiming above average reservations. This could mean that the rally may have a normal crowd, which could also translate to fewer traffic situations.
- Law Enforcement– When the Sturgis Rally happens, a small town of 7,000 people turns into a metropolitan of half a million people. The local police adjust accordingly, hiring temporary officers from other departments around the nation and gearing up for a potentially wild two weeks. In 2016, 1,400 citations were issued, which was more than what was issued in the record setting 2015 rally. However, both drug arrests and DUIs were down in 2016.
All this adds up to a fun rally for everyone who attends, but remember not to get carried away. Drink responsibly and don’t drink and ride. Take it easy in those corners and keep the shiny side up. If you need help, the attorneys who ride are here for you—serving not only Colorado, but Nebraska and Wyoming too.