Sturgis, SD (August 5, 2025) – First responders, including paramedics and local fire crews, were dispatched early Sunday morning following a violent head-on collision between two motorcycles on SD 79 near Sturgis. The incident was among several serious motorcycle crashes reported during the 85th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally weekend.
Authorities confirmed the crash occurred at approximately 12:44 a.m. on Sunday. A 2005 Harley-Davidson motorcycle was traveling southbound, while a 2022 Harley-Davidson was heading northbound. Both riders were reportedly straddling the centerline when their motorcycles collided. Following impact, the 2005 Harley came to rest in the southbound lane, and the 2022 Harley ran off the road, landing in a ditch.
Emergency medical services provided immediate care to both riders. The driver of the 2005 Harley-Davidson, who was wearing a helmet, sustained life-threatening injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital. The other motorcyclist suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities are still investigating whether that rider was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Traffic in the area was temporarily affected as emergency crews secured the scene and conducted a preliminary investigation. Local law enforcement has not yet determined the full cause of the collision but noted that the rally’s increased traffic levels have led to a surge in motorcycle-related incidents.
Our hearts go out to the injured riders and their families as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating crash.
Motorcycle Collisions in South Dakota During the Sturgis Rally
Motorcycle collisions during the Sturgis Rally are a recurring concern for law enforcement, local residents, and visitors alike. With thousands of riders converging on the Black Hills region, roads such as SD 79 become highly trafficked and, at times, hazardous. Sunday’s head-on crash highlights the devastating outcomes that can occur when two motorcycles traveling in opposite directions make contact near the centerline.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of how important lane discipline is, particularly when visibility is reduced in early morning hours and fatigue may be a factor. Although one rider was wearing a helmet and possibly benefited from that decision, he still sustained life-threatening injuries. Meanwhile, helmet use for the second rider is under review, which may be a factor in the comparative injury severity.
South Dakota law currently does not mandate helmet use for riders over the age of 18, a regulation that continues to be debated—especially during the rally season when the volume of motorcycle traffic significantly increases. Each year, the combination of high speeds, long-distance travel, and large riding groups leads to dozens of injury crashes in and around Sturgis.
In addition to medical risks, these types of crashes can have long-term financial and emotional consequences for those involved. Recovery may include prolonged hospitalization, physical therapy, and time away from work—all of which can be daunting without proper support.
As investigations continue, local safety advocates are urging all riders to maintain heightened caution, particularly on two-lane highways and during low-visibility hours. Wearing protective gear, staying alert, and avoiding centerline riding are all steps that can help prevent future tragedies.
If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a motorcycle collision—especially during a high-risk period like the Sturgis Rally—there are resources available to support your recovery.
At Local Accident Reports, we’re dedicated to helping crash victims connect with trusted local services for medical treatment, legal guidance, and recovery planning. Don’t face the aftermath of a serious crash alone—reach out to Local Accident Reports today and let us help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
