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The freeing feeling of a motorcycle ride is enhanced by the backdrop of Denver’s scenic mountainside roads. Motorcycling is an increasingly popular activity, enjoyed by many Colorado residents. Unfortunately, with the general interest in motorcycles increasing, so too is the likelihood of motorcycle accidents. That’s why it’s important to call an experienced Denver motorcycle accident lawyer if you are ever in an accident.
Manufacturers continue to make improvements to enhance motorcycle safety, including making available modifications and accessories. Nonetheless, motorcycles offer less protection than other vehicles. That is why, regardless of the safety modifications you may make, motorcycle accidents often result in serious injury.
For legal purposes, the difference between a car accident and a motorcycle accident is massive. Consequently, it is important that you seek assistance from an experienced injury attorney. The Denver motorcycle accident lawyers at Zinda Law Group are here to assist you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Colorado, call (800) 863-5312 for a 100% free consultation.
For a free legal consultation with a motorcycle accidents lawyer serving Denver, call 800-863-5312
Common Causes of Motorcycle accidents
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) works hard to combat the recent uptick in motorcycle crashes in Colorado. The rising number of motorcyclist deaths on Colorado roadways is a growing cause for concern, and the number of motorcycle rider fatalities in the entire nation is equally alarming.
In 2019 alone, 5,014 motorcyclists died nationwide. This statistic indicates that per mile traveled in 2019, motorcyclists were about 29 times more likely to die in accidents than passenger vehicle occupants, and 4 times more likely to be injured.
You may have seen public safety announcements made by CDOT urging people to be more cautious of motorcycle riders. Their messages are directed toward passenger vehicle drivers, urging them to “look twice before turning left,” and to “follow all traffic laws.” These messages show that CDOT is taking the safety of motorcyclists seriously, but only time will tell if their new campaign is effective at increasing safety for motorcyclists.
The number of riders in Colorado is continuously growing, as more people crave taking a two-wheeled trip through Denver’s scenic landscape. Because of the growing number of riders, there is an obvious risk that CDOT must combat.
As mentioned, there are some safety measures that motorcyclists can take themselves, such as making modifications to their bikes and wearing the proper gear for riding. But it is widely known that these safety measures pale in comparison to the protection offered by the steel frame of a four-door passenger vehicle.
With this in mind, it is important for motorcycle riders to be aware of the most common indications that their safety is at greater risk. Keeping in mind any indication that the roads or the drivers on it are not as safe as possible, can help prevent something as serious as a motorcycle accident. Below are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents:
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Unsafe Lane Changes
When the driver of a passenger vehicle makes an unsafe lane change, they are putting the safety of all those around them at risk. This risk is heightened for motorcyclists.
Making an unsafe lane change means that the driver of the vehicle failed to use their signals or check their blind spots. If a passenger vehicle driver changes lanes in an unsafe manner, the motorcyclist riding in a lane next to them can be side-swiped or may have to maneuver to avoid being hit. Of course, this may create a domino effect, whereby swerving to avoid an accident causes another accident to occur.
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Car Doors
Car door accidents are a result of a driver’s failure to notice a motorcycle coming from behind, leading to a collision or forcing the rider to swerve into traffic. Sometimes referred to as ‘dooring accidents,’ these types of accidents can be easily avoided by the owner of the passenger vehicle by simply checking their surroundings.
The person who opened the door is typically liable if the motorcyclist was doored, and the number of damages awarded will depend on the facts of the case. For motorcyclists, it is important to keep an eye out for passenger vehicles which are parked on the shoulders of the highway, or on narrow side streets.
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Speeding
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, speeding killed nearly 9,500 people. There are tons of reasons why people drive beyond the speed limit, such as traffic congestion or running behind schedule.
It is important to note that speeding increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle, crashing, and thereby causing injury to all parties involved. In the case of motorcyclists who have little protection from their external environment, speeding drivers can be a great risk to them.
Sudden Stops
Individuals on the roadway can be held responsible for injuries caused by a motorcyclist having to come to a sudden stop. When a motorcycle collides with a car that has stopped suddenly, it may result in the motorcyclist cartwheeling forward, turning end-over-end, and catapulting the motorcyclist into the roadway.
You may be thinking that in the event of a rear-end accident, the tailing driver is always at fault; however, this may not be the case. There are incidents in which a pedestrian or bicyclist illegally crosses the road, or when roadway maintenance leaves the motorists on the roadway with no option but to stop suddenly.
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced drivers are generally learning the rules and regulations of the road for the first time, thus making them more likely to commit the types of infractions that could lead to a motorcycle accident. An inexperienced driver is likely to omit performing tasks that would otherwise make the roadways safer. These types of omission typically include failing to correctly set their mirrors, check their blind spots, and signal before changing lanes.
As it pertains to motorcyclists, a veteran motorcyclist will be more attuned to avoiding dangers in and on the road. Nevertheless, regardless of your motorcycle experience, some things are too far out of your control.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Dangerous road conditions include
- broken concrete,
- potholes,
- debris in the road,
- poorly lit streets,
- and much more.
These types of conditions make it easy for motorcyclists to lose control of their motorcycles and crash. When dangerous road conditions are the cause of your crash, it is important to take pictures documenting the conditions of the road at the time of the accident.
In this instance, the people who are responsible for designing, building, or maintaining the road will likely be the party who is liable for your injuries. Taking pictures can help establish the facts of your case, increasing your chance for recovery.
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