How Can Motorcycle Accident Injuries Be Avoided in Colorado?

 Posted on September 12, 2019 in Personal Injury

In 2018, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation, 16.3 percent of motor vehicle fatalities were motorcyclists—totaling 103. This is because, in an accident, a motorcyclist is more likely to suffer fatal injuries compared to a car or truck driver. When a motorcyclist weaves through other vehicles at a high speed, this can cause concern for other drivers. It also creates a poor stereotype that all motorcycle riders are reckless and irresponsible. Motorcycles are viewed as dangerous modes of transportation, and in many cases, the people who ride them have an equally negative bias against them. It is imperative for motorcyclists to adhere to certain safety standards in order to avoid being involved in an accident and suffering serious injuries. However, in some situations, a motorcycle accident can be caused by another driver's negligence.  

Safety First

Responsible motorcyclist enthusiasts are passionate about safety. Compared to a car, the amount of protection a motorcycle provides is extremely limited. In the event of an accident, a motorcycle rider is exposed directly to the incident, while a car has an external shell, and occupants are protected by systems such as seat belts and airbags. 

In Colorado, adults 18 and older are not legally required to wear helmets while riding or operating a motorcycle. However, this is one of the best things a motorcyclist can do in terms of protection. While a helmet may not completely prevent a head injury, a concussion is much easier to recover from than a skull fracture. Riders under 18 are required to have a Department of Transportation approved helmet. 

Eye protection is required for all motorcycle riders in Colorado. This can include visors or shields on a helmet, but at a minimum, all riders are required by law to have goggles or glasses made out of sturdy material. Although not legally required, tough leather boots, gloves, and a jacket are also recommended to protect a rider’s body. 

Traffic laws are in place to help prevent accidents and make the roads safer. The rules of the road are meant to be followed by every motorist, whether he or she is operating a motorcycle, car, or truck. Everyone should drive within the speed limit and drive sober. However, even if a motorcycle rider safely operates his or her bike, other drivers on the road may choose to act negligently, which can lead to an accident.  

Contact a Larimer County Personal Injury Lawyer

What is considered dangerous is subjective, and unfortunately a judge may have the bias that a motorcycle driver put him or herself at risk. When a responsible motorcyclist gets into an accident, he or she may be the first one blamed in addition to being the person with the most severe injuries. If you have been hurt in a motorcycle crash, you may be able to seek compensation. Contact an experienced Fort Collins motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your case. At Hoggatt Law Office, P.C., we will thoroughly examine the details of your accident to determine liability and help you understand your options for recovering compensation. Call us today at 970-225-2190 to schedule a free consultation. 

Sources:

https://www.codot.gov/library/traffic/safety-crash-data/fatal-crash-data-city-county/fatalities-by-person-type/view

https://www.codot.gov/safety/motorcycle/motorcycle-laws.html