Whether or not another Colorado vehicle is involved, a motorcycle crash has a much greater chance of injuring or killing its rider than crashes that only involve other types of vehicles. Unfortunately, even if motorcyclists survive their motorcycle accidents, they often require long-term care to recover from their injuries. According to 2012 data, the last year for which complete national data exist, motorcycle-related fatalities made up 15 percent of all total traffic fatalities in the United States. Nearly 5,000 people died, and more than 90,000 were injured. In Colorado alone, 97 people died.
What can a motorcyclist do to avoid an accident? Every rider should complete a motorcycle riding or training course, avoid blind spots of other motorists, never travel on the shoulder of any roadway, never share a lane with another vehicle, always signal before changing lanes, avoid weaving between lanes or through traffic and always avoid intoxicated driving, distracted driving and drowsy driving.
What can other motorists do to avoid motorcycle accidents? Every driver should always provide motorcyclists with a full lane for safe travel. Inattention to motorcyclists often causes accidents, so drivers be on the lookout for riders at all times. Avoid tailgating and be extra cautious around road obstructions. Finally, like riders, drivers should avoid all forms of distracted or impaired driving.
What should a motorcyclist do following an accident? If the accident occurred because of a driver’s negligence, a motorcyclist can pursue legal action to secure compensation. This is usually in the form of a personal injury lawsuit against the driver but any criminal evidence gathered by police can be noted. Accident victims can seek monetary awards to pay for medical treatment and lost wages. To pursue this course of action and maximize the chance of success, a motorcyclist should get experienced legal guidance.