Colorado Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Colorado Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle accidents are a serious concern in Colorado. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), in 2022, there were a record high 149 motorcycle fatalities on Colorado roads, accounting for 20 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state.

Additionally, CDOT reports that motorcyclists are over-represented in traffic fatalities, as they make up just 3% of registered vehicles in Colorado but account for a disproportionately high number of traffic deaths. These statistics underscore the importance of holding negligent drivers accountable and seeking the compensation you deserve if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident.

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Denver, Colorado

Motorcycle accidents in Colorado can occur due to:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Failure to yield the right-of-way
• Drunk or impaired driving
• Unsafe lane changes
• Following too closely
• Poor road conditions
• Defective motorcycle parts

When another driver’s negligence causes a motorcycle accident, we can hold them accountable for their actions and the harm they’ve caused.

Common Injuries People Sustain in Denver, Colorado Motorcycle Accidents

Injuries from a motorcycle accident are often catastrophic because of the rider’s direct exposure to the roadway, debris, and other vehicles. Motorcycle riders are more likely to suffer severe injuries, even in low-speed accidents.

Are Helmets Legally Required For Motorcycle Riders?

Although helmets can save lives, they certainly cannot prevent all injuries. Colorado does not require riders aged 18 and over to wear helmets, but does for riders under 18.

Should Motorcycle Riders Wear Eye Protection?

In Colorado, some form of eye protection is legally required for riders—passengers as well as drivers. The best eye protection comes from a visor on a helmet, but goggles or eyeglasses with lenses made from safety glass or plastic are acceptable. Regardless of the safety measures you may take, devastating motorcycle injuries can still occur.

Due to the lack of physical protection motorcycles offer compared to other vehicles, riders are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of an accident.

Some common injuries caused by motorcycle accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): These injuries occur when a sudden, external force causes damage to the brain. TBIs can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including cognitive difficulties, memory loss, personality changes, and physical impairments.
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis below the site of the injury. This can lead to a loss of sensation, muscle control, and other bodily functions, requiring extensive rehabilitation and long-term care.
• Broken bones and fractures: Motorcycle accidents often result in broken bones and fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones. These injuries can be painful, require surgery or immobilization, and may lead to long-term complications or disabilities.
• Road rash and severe skin abrasions: When a rider is thrown from their motorcycle, they may slide across the pavement, causing painful skin abrasions known as road rash. These injuries can be severe, requiring extensive wound care and leading to scarring or infections.
• Internal organ damage: The force of a motorcycle accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to vital organs such as the lungs, liver, spleen, and kidneys. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgery and ongoing medical care.
• Amputations and loss of limbs: In some severe cases, motorcycle accidents can result in the traumatic amputation of limbs or the need for surgical amputation due to extensive damage. Losing a limb can have a profound impact on a person’s life, requiring prosthetics, adaptations, and emotional support.
• Disfigurement and scarring: Motorcycle accidents can cause significant disfigurement and scarring, particularly to the face, hands, and other exposed areas. These injuries can lead to emotional distress and self-esteem issues, and may require reconstructive surgery.
• Emotional trauma and PTSD: The psychological impact of a motorcycle accident can be just as devastating as the physical injuries. Many accident victims experience emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), requiring mental health support and therapy to cope with the lasting effects of the accident.

Any one of these injuries can have life-altering consequences, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. The experienced motorcycle crash attorneys in our Colorado offices can fight to ensure you receive the compensation necessary to cover these costs and support your recovery.

How a Dedicated Denver, Colorado Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You Hold the Other Driver Accountable

You’ll need to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit to hold the negligent driver accountable for your injuries and losses. This process can be complex and time-consuming, which is why it’s crucial to have an experienced Colorado motorcycle collision attorney on your side.

A tenacious motorcycle injury attorney will:

• Investigate the accident and gather evidence
• Identify all liable parties
• Calculate the full extent of your damages
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
• Prepare your case for trial, if necessary

By working with our team of legal professionals, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

8 Ways to Protect Your Rights Following a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle crash, here are eight important steps that can protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t think you have serious injuries
2. Call the police and file an accident report
3. Gather evidence, including photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
4. Request contact and insurance information from the other involved driver(s)
5. Get contact information from any witnesses
6. Notify your insurance company of the accident
7. Maintain a file for the detailed records of your medical treatment and expenses
8. Contact our experienced Colorado motorcycle collision attorneys for a free consultation

By following these steps, you can collect the evidence and obtain the support necessary to build a strong case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

How Do I Have to Pursue Compensation for a Personal Injury in Colorado?

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for many non-vehicle-related personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury.

However, in the case of motor vehicle collision injuries, such as a motorcycle crash, you have three years to file a civil lawsuit to request legal damages.

However, this rule has some exceptions, such as cases involving minors, government entities, or injuries that weren’t immediately apparent. Talk with an experienced Colorado motorcycle crash lawyer at our law firm as soon as possible after your accident to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines and to protect your legal rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Crash Claims

When our motorcycle crash lawyers help injured riders seek financial compensation from at-fault drivers and other responsible entities, we often answer certain important questions. While considering your options, here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions to get you started.

If you don’t see the information you need, reach out for a free consultation today.

Contact Our Denver, Colorado Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today

Franklin D. Azar, Denver, Colorado Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Denver, Colorado, don’t wait to seek the legal help you need. At Franklin D. Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers, our compassionate and experienced attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and learn more about how we can help you move forward after a devastating motorcycle accident. Call us anytime at (303) 757-3300 or complete our online contact form for a free consultation.

Let us put our skills and resources to work for you so you can focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life. Our skills and reputation have allowed us to grow into the largest personal injury law firm in Colorado, with offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, Fort Collins, Greeley, Grand Junction, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo.

Franklin D. Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers – Denver Office

4704 N Harlan St
Suite 205
Denver, CO 80212
P: (303) 529-2104