According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, motorcycle crashes are up 32% in Colorado since 2011. In 2018, 103 motorcyclists were killed on Colorado roads. Why? Colorado drivers simply don’t always look out for motorcyclists on the road. In addition, the increase in distracted driving has led to an increase in motorcycle accident deaths in recent years.
All car drivers and motorcyclists need to learn to share the road, in order to prevent serious accidents from occurring. To help combat the rise in motorcycle crashes, the Colorado Highway Patrol operates the Colorado Motorcycle Operator Safety Training Program across the state.
In order to stay safe on the road this season, however, it is important to know what you can do to share the road.
Car Drivers
- Motorcyclists have a right to use a whole lane. Never share a lane with a motorcyclist
- Always watch for motorcyclists approaching at intersections
- Continually scan the roadway in front and on either side of you for motorcyclists that might be on the road
- Increase your following distance to four seconds or more when following behind motorcyclists
- In poor weather give motorcyclists more room on the road
- Use turn signals when changing lanes
- Never drive under the influence of drugs and alcohol
- Put the phone down
Motorcyclists
- Take a defensive driving course
- Use extra caution at intersections
- Slow down your speeds during inclement weather
- Never speed
- Reduce speed during corners
- Never drink and drive
When an Accident Occurs
Unfortunately, even when motorists and bikers follow all the rules of the road and take the necessary precautions, accidents still occur. When this happens, it is important to have an experienced law firm on your side. Your lawyer will be able to help negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, to obtain a fair settlement for you. Without a lawyer on your side, however, you may not obtain enough money to pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and bike repairs.
Remember, insurance companies don’t have your best interest at heart. Their main objective is to pay you as little as possible. With an accident attorney on your side, however, you can rest assured knowing your future and your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Contact Our Pueblo Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Pueblo, we want to be the first law firm you call. Our Pueblo motorcycle accident lawyers have the experience and resources needed to tackle these cases. We offer complete, compassionate legal assistance every step of the way. Call Pueblo Personal Injury Attorneys Smith & Smith, today for a FREE CONSULTATION – (719) 544-0062. We know how to help injured motorcyclists get back on the road after a serious accident.
