The Colorado State Patrol reported that driver impairment was the fourth highest factor behind at-fault motorcycle crashes in 2024 was driver impairment.
The three leading factors in 2024 were speed, lane violation and inattentive driving. While all factors are preventable, a CSP press release said driving impaired leaves especially little room for error.
The new ranking follows a 54% rise in rider impairment from 2023, when it was the sixth most common factor for at-fault motorcycle crashes.
According to CSP Chief Matthew Packard, alcohol was the most common intoxicant, and riders should be aware that “even a small amount of alcohol can have a significant effect.”
He added that any alcohol consumption can reduce the rider’s ability to track moving objects around them, maintain lane position, brake appropriately and respond to emergency driving situations.
The press release added that awareness and responsibility are especially critical as the “100 Deadliest Days of the Summer” approach.
The timeframe, which starts with Memorial Day and ends on Labor Day, represents a period of increased, summertime road traffic from bicyclists, motorcyclists, novice or student drivers and pedestrians looking to enjoy the weather and outdoor season.
Effective July 1, Colorado’s crisis and mental health service lines will be consolidated under one program, 988 Colorado.
The move was mandated by recent state legislation, SB25-236, that aimed to align Colorado’s resources with national efforts and ensure the services and support are available to residents immediately.
Coloradans seeking emotional, mental health or substance use support can now call or text 988 for immediate assistance. Alternatively, visit 988Colorado.com for a free, confidential live chat at any time of the day or year.
According to 988 Director Gordon Coombes, the consolidation will improve access by reducing duplication and promoting an easy-to-remember number.
The program set to be absorbed by 988, the Colorado Crisis Services Line, boasts a peer support line that will continue operations under 988.
After last year’s discovery that two state chemists conducting water quality tests failed to conduct quality control measures, the Colorado Department of Public Health announced Friday that a thorough review of affected tests found there is no risk to the public’s well-being.
The announcement follows a review of nearly 33,000 test results between 2018 and 2024, including compliance samples, environmental monitoring samples and private customer tests.
CDPHE added that the review focused on “certain contaminants of concern,” including lead, mercury, arsenic and uranium in drinking water and “environmental samples.”
According to a press release, approximately 1.3% (526) of the reviewed test results were flagged for recall “out of an abundance of caution,” as all impacted drinking water samples re-tested below the health-based action limit.
The department added that affected sectors include water utilities, private wells and programs that monitor rivers, streams and environmental health outcomes.
Affected customers and partners will soon be contacted regarding the recall, prior to a review that will determine whether repeat testing is necessary.
Health Headlines is a Sentinel feature compiled by Jace DiCola, health and wellness reporter. Email him at jace.dicola@gjsentinel.com
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