Colorado is a motorcycle riders paradise in summer.
Many riders revel in the sheer rush of the winding mountain passes and open roads. Others see it as a practical means to travel to and from work or to run errands. Often, riders become immersed in the great sense of camaraderie among fellow, two-wheeled travelers.
Fort Collins Motorcycle Accident Attorney Steve Shanahan understands the dangers when a rider is involved in an accident. Broken bones, road rash and traumatic brain injury can result.
No matter how safe a rider aims to be, motorcycle accidents in Fort Collins and throughout Colorado continue to be a serious threat with the potential to instantly maim and kill. In many cases, accidents happen when the rider is doing everything right – following the speed limit, driving defensively and wearing a helmet. No matter how many bumper stickers may alert other motorists to watch out for motorcycle riders, the sad truth is they often don’t.
In fact, about a fifth of all fatalities on Colorado’s roadways were motorcyclists. Even the Colorado Department of Transportation calls this “alarming.” It continues to rise. More than 80 were killed in a single recent year.
Helmets for Fort Collins Motorcycle Riders
In the state of Colorado, motorcycle operators who are older than 18 do NOT have to wear a helmet when riding.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider wearing one, as almost 70 percent of all those killed in Colorado motorcycle accidents weren’t wearing a helmet.
However, not wearing a helmet doesn’t exclude you from the right to compensation if you or a loved one is seriously or fatally injured in a Fort Collins motorcycle accident. An experienced Fort Collins trial lawyer can help you begin to pick up the pieces in the wake of a devastating crash. This can include recompense to you not only for the negligence on behalf of the other motorists, but also for any medical bills you may have incurred, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Avoid Fort Collins Motorcycle Accidents
As so many motorcycle accidents in Fort Collins and throughout Colorado are the fault of the other driver, Fort Collins Injury Attorney Steve Shanahan offers the following advice for drivers of larger motor vehicles who must safely share the road:
- Scan traffic for motorcycles that may be around you;
- Glance at your blind spots prior to merging or changing lanes, especially if there is heavier-than-normal traffic flow;
- Triple-check for motorcycles when you are turning or pulling out at an intersection;
- It can sometimes be difficult to spot a motorcyclist, but look for the helmet, the tires or a shadow alongside your vehicle that you can’t see around;
- Allow a minimum of two seconds between you and the motorcycle traveling in front of you. If there is inclement weather or other poor road conditions, give yourself even more space.
- Be especially careful when you’re turning left. Most motorcycle crashes happen at an intersection, so this is crucial.
- Don’t drive in the same lane as a motorcycle. Not only is it dangerous, it’s against the law.
- Motorcyclists deserve the same courtesy and respect you would offer to other motorists.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Fort Collins motorcycle accident, you need the experience and dedication of Fort Collins Injury Attorney Steve Shanahan. Consultations are free, and Shanahan isn’t paid unless you win. Justice shouldn’t be left to chance.
Fort Collins Accident Attorney – 970-204-9999 – Free Consultation