Utah officials issue warning after record motorcycle deaths
Apr 30, 2026, 6:32 PM
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah transportation officials are urging caution as motorcycle season begins, following a record number of rider deaths in 2025 and a renewed push to reduce preventable crashes on state roads.
The Utah Department of Public Safety reports 72 motorcyclists were killed last year, the highest total in state history. Officials say most of those fatalities involved riders who lacked proper training or endorsements.
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More than 75% of riders killed were not motorcycle endorsed, and fewer than 10% had completed formal safety training, according to DPS.
“Last year, we lost 72 motorcyclists on our Utah roads. This is the highest we’ve ever seen… not even close and something we do not want to continue with,” said Maj. Jason Ricks with the Utah Highway Patrol.
Officials also point to driver behavior as a major factor in motorcycle crashes, including failure to yield, unsafe lane changes and speeding.
“Drivers impacting these motorcyclists are failing to yield the right of way, failure to stay in the proper lane and unsafe speeds,” said Jason Mettmann with the Utah Highway Safety Office.
As part of the season kickoff, DPS displayed 80 helmets at a Taylorsville training track to represent motorcycle fatalities from last year through April, while also demonstrating rider safety techniques.
The state is encouraging riders to get trained, get endorsed, and wear proper gear before hitting the road, while reminding drivers to “look twice,” especially at intersections.
Officials say a statewide safety campaign is also underway, offering discounted motorcycle safety courses through the “Ride to Live Utah” program at ridetolive.utah.gov.
