This article was in the Gazette Thursday morning, for your added information and situational awareness.

Check out this website: www.PikesPeakRiders.com.

Only about 3 percent of the vehicles on El Paso County roads are motorcycles, yet, in the past few years, 30 percent of the area's traffic fatalities have been motorcyclists.

In response to the 24 deaths since 2009, the El Paso County Public Health Department is launching a “Let’s Ride Safe” campaign.

Funded by a grant from the Colorado Department of Transportation, the campaign aims to educate riders about the need for professional training in operating a motorcycle and the benefits of wearing safety equipment.

Close to 40 percent of Colorado motorcyclists killed in crashes from 2008 to 2010 did not have a motorcycle license as required by law. Statewide, motorcyclists were at fault in 71 percent of fatal crashes.

Recent motorcycle deaths within El Paso County occurred June 8, involving a 53-year-old Colorado Springs man.

A 19-year-old Fort Carson soldier and a 53-year-old Colorado Springs man were also killed in motorcycle accidents during Memorial Day weekend this year.

“These deaths are tragedies and are devastating reminders for all motorists to be more aware on the road. Our collaborative efforts are aimed at preventing these types of deaths,” said Dan Martindale, deputy director for El Paso County Public Health.

CDOT is debuting a new tool this year to help riders – the first-ever motorcycle skill rating map of Colorado. The motorcycle skill rating map offers riders important information regarding popular motorcycles routes and skills that may be necessary to travel the state’s roadways safely. It was developed with input from A Brotherhood Active Towards Education (ABATE) of Colorado, a motorcyclist rights and education group, and the Colorado Sportbike Club.

CDOT provides motorcycle training at a lower cost for Colorado residents and active duty military personnel through its Motorcycle Operator Safety Training program. Riders who pass a class can receive an endorsement from a state driver’s license office without needing further testing.

For more information about the CDOT skill map and rider training, visit www.PikesPeakRiders.com.

Read more: http://www.gazette.com/articles/deaths-119803-percent-county.html#ixzz1PSt436f8