Motorcycle Accidents Can Result in Death or Serious Injury

103 motorcyclists were killed on Colorado roadways in 2019, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation. These 103 fatalities accounted for 23 percent of all roadway deaths in the state that year, even though motorcycles accounted for only three percent of all vehicular traffic.

Crashes between a motorcycle and another vehicle are quite common and unfortunately quite deadly. These types of crashes typically happen at high speeds, which dramatically increases the risk that the motorcyclist will either be killed or catastrophically injured. The motorcyclist can, for example, be crushed by the vehicle or thrown a long distance through the air. Near-collisions with motorcyclists can result in a rider losing control of their bike and crashing.

When collisions are caused by the negligence of another driver, an injured motorcyclist (or the family of a killed motorcyclist) can often seek damages in a lawsuit. If the collision involves an underinsured motorist or an uninsured motorist, the injured rider may be able to seek compensation from their own insurance company.

Colorado Bicycle Laws

Limited Visibility

One of the most significant factors when it comes to explaining why catastrophic motorcycle accidents are so common in Colorado is the inherent difficulty of seeing motorcyclists. Due to a motorcycle’s relatively small size, other drivers may have trouble seeing it. Many drivers fail to keep a proper lookout when switching lanes. Many drivers negligently cut off motorcyclists or negligently turn left in front of motorcyclists at intersections. The already limited visibility of a motorcycle can be further diminished at night, during inclement weather, or during heavy traffic conditions.

A motorcyclist injured by the negligence of another driver may be able to bring a lawsuit to recover compensation for their injuries, losses, and damages. An experienced motorcycle collision law firm like Whalen Injury Lawyers can help.

Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents

There are many precautions a motorcyclist can take to lessen the chance of being hurt – or worse – in a serious accident. One is to always wear the appropriate protective gear such as a helmet, long pants and sleeves, gloves, and eye protection. Another is to avoid operating a motorcycle in bad weather, temporarily pulling over to the side of the road, if necessary.

Because of the risk of serious injury, motorcyclists should also assume that drivers of cars and trucks are not paying careful attention to the traffic (perhaps due to cell phone use or other distracted driving) and assume they will not see motorcyclists. Of course, educating all drivers and making sure they are always on the lookout for motorcyclists will help reduce collisions and save lives.

Contact Whalen Injury Lawyers

Consider contacting Whalen Injury Lawyers if either you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident. We have a proud history of always making sure that our clients get the medical treatment they need along with the compensation they deserve. Feel free to reach out to us at (720) 307-2666 or send us a confidential message using this online form.

A Powerful Voice in Personal Injury Law

Injured? Need Help? Request
your FREE consultation today!

Free Case Review

Related Articles

Request a Free Consultation

It is our pleasure to review and consider your case.
Call us at 720-307-2666 or fill out the form below
to submit your case online.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
The use of this form or website for communication with Whalen Injury Lawyers or a member of Whalen Injury Lawyers does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
chevron-upchevron-downchevron-leftchevron-right