SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Motorcycle season has commenced, prompting Utah officials to issue safety warnings following a record 72 rider fatalities in 2025.
According to the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS), last year marked the highest number of motorcycle deaths in state history. More than 75% of those who died lacked proper motorcycle endorsements, and fewer than 10% had completed formal safety training.
“Last year, we lost 72 motorcyclists on our Utah roads. This is the highest we’ve ever seen,” said Maj. Jason Ricks with the Utah Highway Patrol. Authorities cited driver behavior, such as failure to yield and unsafe lane changes, as significant contributors to motorcycle crashes.
Jason Mettmann with the Utah Highway Safety Office noted that many drivers are not yielding the right of way or maintaining safe speeds.
As part of the season kickoff, DPS showcased 80 helmets at a Taylorsville training track to symbolize last year’s fatalities through April while demonstrating motorcycle safety techniques.
Officials urge riders to obtain training and endorsements and to wear appropriate gear. They advise drivers to “look twice,” particularly at intersections.
A statewide safety initiative is currently in effect, offering discounted motorcycle safety courses through the “Ride to Live Utah” program at ridetolive.utah.gov.