DPS: Fatal motorcycle crashes up from last year

Thursday, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety reported that fatal motorcycle crashes are up compared to this time last year.

According to DPS, 33 motorcyclists have been killed this year, which is up from 25 fatalities at this time last year.

DPS released the information ahead of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota, which is occurring despite concerns of COVID-19.

Sturgis rally still a go in South Dakota, as many as 250,000 people expected to attend

Records from DPS report 33 motorcyclists have been killed in 32 crashes. In 24 of those incidents, riders were not wearing helmets.
More than half of the crashes involved only a motorcycle.

DPS encourages those who do plan to ride to wear protective gear including a helmet, be aware of inattentive drivers, and never drink and ride.