Our beautiful state has tons of mountain passes and beautiful winding roads, which attracts motorcyclists from all over the country. The bikers come and fill our roads during the warmer months of the year, and this increase in activity often results in a rise in motorcycle crashes. This year the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) decided to take a new approach to combatting these accidents.

What Is Live to Ride?

Over the summer, CDOT ran a program called Live to Ride. The program used live radio and Pandora internet radio to broadcast ads to spread the word about motorcycle safety in the state of Colorado. The spots carried tips about getting riding training and warned motorcyclists about the dangers of excessive speed and drinking. The campaign was also aimed at drivers, and keeping them aware of the motorcyclists that share the road with them. However, we want this vigilance to continue right into the winter months, too.

Why Are Motorcyclist Deaths So High In Colorado?

Only 3 percent of the vehicles on our roads are motorcycles, but 18 percent of all the fatal motor vehicle crashes in our state involve motorcycles. These crashes involved drinking, speeding, and people neglecting to notice riders out enjoying our great state.

“It’s the texting. It’s the cellphones,” one motorcyclist tells the Coloradoan. He goes on to suggest that politicians solve the problem by outlawing cell phones while driving.

In Colorado, it is illegal for anyone under 18 to use a cellphone while driving, and it’s illegal for anyone of any age to text while driving. If you have to use a cell phone while you are in your car, pull over and come to a complete stop. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Metier Law Firm want you to keep an eye out for our two-wheeled neighbors, even as the offseason approaches and temperatures begin to drop.