The Brighton Police Department Traffic Safety Unit (TSU) is investigating three crashes involving motorcyclists that occurred between Sept. 14 and 18. Two of the three crashes were fatal, and one resulted in serious injury. Two of the three crashes were the result of motorist inattention, while one of the crashes was the result of reckless driving on behalf of the motorcyclist. The crash resulting in serious injury is under investigation as a felony hit and run, since the driver of the vehicle fled from the scene.
Compared to the same time last year, crashes involving motorcycles and resulting in serious injury or death have increased by 180% in the City of Brighton. Brighton Police want to remind motorists to follow the safety tips below.
When turning left, motorcyclists can be difficult to see. All three crashes mentioned above involved a left turn. Use extra caution and turn into the correct lane. Look twice, save a life.
Wear your seat belt. The TSU has seen that failure to use seat belts contributes to serious injury.
Check blind spots and use signals before making lane changes.
Eliminate distractions while driving and be aware of your surroundings.
Brighton Police also want to highlight the following safety tips for motorcyclists.
Always wear protective safety gear. Proper gear includes a DOT-compliant helmet, boots that cover the ankles, riding pants and jacket, gloves and eye protection.
Make sure you are properly licensed. Getting a motorcycle license endorsement ensures you are in compliance with Colorado law.
Ride responsibly. Obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits, and lane markings. Leave plenty of room between your bike and other vehicles, and always check behind you and signal before you change lanes. Remember, lane splitting is illegal in Colorado.
Drive sober. Substances negatively affect your judgment, impair your alertness, and reduce your reaction time.
Since 2019, there have been 20 fatal crashes on Brighton roadways. The TSU wants the community to know that they analyze all serious and fatal crashes in order to conduct strategic traffic enforcement. Brighton Police are urging everyone to use caution, pay attention, drive sober and arrive alive at your destination.