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Friday, Apr. 3, 2026

Are Denver police prohibited from chasing motorcyclists? 

Cassis Tingley, The Colorado Sun
no

Though Denver police must follow all pursuit regulations under the Denver Police Department Operations Manual, there is no specific policy banning the pursuit of motorcyclists.

Denver police may pursue vehicles, including motorcycles, only if an officer determines the suspect presents an imminent threat of serious bodily injury or death to others or if the officer believes the suspect has committed a felony using or threatening to use a deadly weapon or has committed “a violent felony against a person.”

Motorcyclists accounted for about one-fifth of all Colorado traffic deaths in 2025, despite representing just 3% of the state’s vehicles. 

Last year saw 147 Coloradans killed across the state while riding a motorcycle, down from 165 in 2024, which was Colorado’s deadliest year for motorcyclists on record.

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