Denver, Colo. – Motorcycle fatalities are on the rise in Colorado, doubling from 45 in 1995 to an all-time high of 90 deaths in 2007, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Over the past five years (2003-2007) in Colorado, 402 riders and passengers have been killed in motorcycle crashes. Of those riders, the vast majority (88%) were men and 44% were age 45 or older. Alcohol was a factor in 35% of the fatal crashes, and 80% of the riders were either not wearing a helmet or it was improperly used.

“These statistics are very troubling,” said Pam Hutton, Chief Engineer and the Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety at CDOT. “While the number of motorcycle registrations in Colorado has increased, the rate of fatalities has accelerated at a faster pace. Most Coloradans, riders and motorists alike, believe one of the single best things one can do to reduce the number of fatalities is to be more aware and take a rider training class. That’s why CDOT has launched a new motorcycle safety program, called ‘Live to Ride,’ to encourage rider education and motorist awareness.”

CDOT has also developed a new motorcycle safety Web site to specifically address rider and motorist safety issues, including riding under the influence, use of proper gear, and tips for motorists. The new site may be found at www.comotorcyclesafety.com.

"We saw a record number of motorcycle crashes and fatalities on Colorado roadways last year, especially in Denver, El Paso and Adams counties. Most of the fatalities are men, and most are not wearing a helmet," said Sergeant Rich Munroe, supervisor for the Colorado State Patrol's motorcycle team. "Many men think they're invincible, but when they encounter unexpected road hazards, far too many of them are not experienced enough to handle these types of situations. Statistics show that training and helmet use can reduce the number of fatalities and reduce medical cost of injuries sustained.”

CDOT’s new motorcycle program focuses on training as the first step a rider can take to riding safer, and enjoying the ride longer even for those experienced riders who have been riding for years. CDOT has partnered with a number of organizations throughout the state to encourage more riders to take a motorcycle safety-training course offered by MOST-certified trainers

MOST stands for Motorcycle Operator Safety Training, and its mission is to provide high-quality, low-cost motorcycle training to residents and active-duty military personnel. MOST is administered by CDOT and offers a variety of courses that prepare motorcyclists of all skill levels to ride safely, have fun and most importantly stay alive.

“The skills I learned in a motorcycle safety class were both priceless and lifesaving,” said Shannon Boyles, motorcycle rider for life. “Recently I took an experienced riders course that I learned about through the Colorado Department of Transportation. The training was conducted by a MOST-certified training organization. It was a great refresher and reinforced some critical riding skills. I took the class with my 64-year-old dad, Peter Boyles, who’s been riding for years, and was shocked to hear he learned so much from the course. I tell people, if I can take this class, anyone can.”

CDOT has also partnered with insurance companies Allstate and Progressive to offer discounts for completing a MOST safety training class. “Insurance companies have signed on as ‘Live to Ride’ campaign partners because they know many riders also care about the pocketbook advantages to safety training,” said Carole Walker, Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association. “Many insurance companies offer discounts of 10 to 15 percent for graduates of certified training courses.”

To offer attractive rider incentives for those who have taken a MOST class, CDOT has teamed up with a number of motorcycle dealerships. For a list of participating dealerships and other program partners, visit www.comotorcyclesafety.com.

The ‘Live to Ride’ Motorcycle Safety Campaign will continue through the summer months to encourage riders to use safety gear and explain the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.