DENVER, Denver County, Colo., Oct. 3, 2026 — A motorcyclist suffered serious injuries in a crash with a car late Thursday night, October 1, or into Friday morning, October 2, at E Colfax Ave and N Monaco St. One person was taken to a hospital.
The Denver Police Department said it is investigating a crash involving a motorist and a motorcyclist at the intersection. The department reported serious injuries and said one person was transported to a local hospital for treatment. No further details on the person's condition have been released.
Drivers experienced delays in the area while officers worked the scene. The department has not released information about what led to the crash, and no citations or charges have been reported at this time.
The crash remains under investigation. Denver police have not said whether either party involved will face charges, and additional details may be released as the investigation continues.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
Motorcycle Crashes by the Numbers
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists accounted for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2023. That figure stands out because motorcycles make up a small fraction of registered vehicles on the road, meaning riders face a much higher share of risk relative to their numbers.
Intersections like the one in this crash are a common setting for motorcycle collisions. A car turning left or pulling out from a side street usually has only a split second to spot an oncoming motorcycle, and the smaller profile of a bike makes it easier to misjudge speed and distance.
Nationally, the data have shown a steady pattern for years: riders are more exposed to serious injury than occupants of passenger vehicles in a crash of comparable speed, simply because a motorcycle offers no surrounding frame to absorb impact. That gap is part of why agencies track motorcycle crashes separately from other traffic collisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a rider do immediately after a motorcycle crash?
Call 911, move to a safe location if possible, and avoid removing protective gear until paramedics evaluate any injury. Get checked by a medical provider even if pain is not immediately obvious, since some injuries take hours to show symptoms.
Are intersections a common site for motorcycle crashes?
Yes. Many motorcycle collisions happen at intersections, usually when a turning vehicle fails to see an oncoming rider or misjudges how fast the motorcycle is approaching.
Does road surface affect motorcycle safety?
Yes. Loose gravel, wet pavement, potholes, and painted lane markings can all reduce traction for a motorcycle far more than for a car, which is part of why riders are trained to adjust speed and following distance for surface conditions.
What gear helps reduce injury for riders?
A DOT-approved helmet, abrasion-resistant jacket and pants, gloves, and over-the-ankle boots are commonly cited as reducing the severity of injuries in a crash.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Denver, CO
Anyone involved in a motorcycle crash in Denver should seek medical evaluation right away, even if injuries seem minor at first. Request a copy of the official police report once it's filed, and document the scene with photos if it's safe to do so. Keep records of any medical visits, treatment, and follow-up care tied to the crash, since that documentation usually matters later. If you witnessed this crash or have information, Denver police encourage contacting the department directly.