Broomfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Colorado’s scenic highways and byways are popular with motorcycle enthusiasts. The curves are exhilarating, and the views are impossible to beat. However, while these roads are enjoyable, they are also dangerous.
Unfortunately, drivers may fail to exercise caution around bikers, leading to serious crashes. Due to the lack of a protective enclosure, motorcyclists often suffer severe harm in a collision.
Colorado law allows injured motorcyclists to seek compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial damages. A Broomfield motorcycle accident lawyer could help by evaluating the specifics of a case and identifying potential legal remedies. Call our law office today to speak with a skilled personal injury attorney.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Collisions
People choose to ride motorcycles for many reasons, many of which have nothing to do with being risk-takers. However, the stereotype that bikers are thrill-seekers can influence fault determinations and prompt insufficient settlement offers in a wreck.
The reality is that most motorcycle crashes are due to negligence by other drivers, not rider misconduct. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include the following:
- Unsafe lane changes
- Speeding
- Cars following motorcycles too closely
- Failing to check blind spots
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driving while fatigued
One of the most significant factors in a biking crash is that drivers forget to look for motorcycles while changing lanes, which are much smaller and more difficult to spot than the average passenger vehicle.
In addition, defective parts, poorly maintained roads, or unsafe driving conditions can contribute to accidents. Determining fault may involve analyzing evidence, consulting experts, and evaluating all the factors.
A Broomfield motorcycle accident attorney could investigate a collision, gather evidence of negligence by other parties, and advocate for fair compensation for their client.
Understanding Helmet Laws
Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1502 contains a mandatory helmet provision for some—but not all—bikers and passengers. The provision only applies to those under the age of 18. Adult riders can choose whether or not to wear a helmet.
However, wearing a helmet is always the safer choice. Doing so dramatically reduces the risk and severity of head injuries and protects the face and neck from broken bones. Due to the seriousness of head and brain trauma, wearing a helmet can also significantly reduce the chances of death.
Failure to wear a helmet is not the same as assuming the risk of a head or neck injury in a motorcycle wreck. Under Colorado’s approach to comparative negligence, located in Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-111, as long as the rider’s share of fault is less than 50 percent, they may be able to recover for their injuries. A Broomfield lawyer could explain the relationship between helmet use and the ability to recover after examining the circumstances of a motorcycle wreck.
Talk to a Broomfield Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
The aftermath of a motorcycle collision often includes not only physical pain and long-term medical treatment but also emotional distress and financial strain. While trying to recover, injured parties may face mounting medical bills, lost income, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
While no amount of money can take away all of the pain, legal claims can address those damages and help improve quality of life. To learn more, schedule a consultation with a Broomfield motorcycle accident lawyer today.
