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Distracted Driving Ranked Third in Colorado At-Fault Motorcycle Crashes in 2025
Description: Colorado State Patrol reports distraction was the third-leading factor in at-fault motorcycle crashes in 2025, with 566 crashes investigated and I-25, I-70 and Highway 50 among the top crash locations. Read the full Press release from Colorado State Patrol Public Affairs Office...
Distracted Driving's Impact on Motorcycle Riders
Troopers investigated 566 at-fault motorcycle crashes in 2025
(COLO) – Motorcycle riding carries significant inherent risks due to a lack of protective structure, reduced visibility to other drivers, and the skill required to maintain balance on two wheels. Due to the demands placed on the rider, constant focus is required to be safe on the road. Yet motorcycle riders often place themselves at risk when riding distracted. For motorcycle riders in Colorado, distraction ranked third among causal factors in at-fault crashes in 2025.
"The best experience for a rider is when they can ride with a clear head, maintain alertness to improve their reaction time, and have constant situational awareness," stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "Preparing mentally and driving defensively is an essential part of the ride. And troopers want everyone on the road to do their part."
A distracted rider is like a distracted driver. Neither operator can adequately drive their vehicle or adjust to changing traffic conditions. Distraction degrades lane-keeping performance, speed control, reaction time, situational awareness, and visual scanning.
When looking at 2025 citation data from the Colorado State Patrol, troopers issued over 200 citations to motorcycle riders for improper, reckless, or careless driving, which includes distraction. In addition, the Colorado State Patrol ranked the most common roads for motorcycle crashes in 2025. The top location was I-25, followed by I-70 and then Highway 50. The most common day of the week was Saturday, between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
"Those few seconds looking at your navigation system or removing a hand from the wheel to do something on your phone may seem innocent at first, but these actions can lead to an error," stated Col. Packard. "This agency alone investigated 566 at-fault motorcycle crashes last year. We need our riders to drive the posted speed limit and stay focused to help us reduce the threat to themselves on Colorado roadways."
The Colorado State Patrol is recognizing Distracted Driving Awareness Month by sharing data and tips to encourage all Colorado drivers to focus on one task: driving. Colorado's Hands Free law went into effect on January 1, 2025. There is no lane reserved for you to drive distracted; drop the distractions.
