Motorcycle crashes are increasingly common for Colorado drivers

Part of what makes motorcycles so thrilling to ride is the element of danger they create. Unlike an enclosed passenger vehicle, motorcycles offer very little protection to the people that ride them. There’s a visceral connection between a driver’s actions and the motion of the motorcycle. At the same time, they allow you to experience the weather and the fresh air, which makes them appealing during the summer months in Englewood.

However, for an increasing number of Colorado motorcycle riders, this exciting form of transit is proving to be fatal. Every year, motorcycle riders take to the roads when the winter snows thaw. Some of these motorcycle enthusiasts will inevitably wind up in a crash with a larger, enclosed passenger vehicle.

Those who get into crashes could suffer lasting injuries or even die. Given that the fatality rate seems to be increasing for Colorado motorcycle riders, this season you should be especially attentive for them on the road or careful if you drive one.

Motorcycles are disproportionately involved in fatal crashes

According to an analysis of state registration statistics, only about 3% of the vehicles registered in the state are motorcycles. However, about one in five or 20% of all fatal crashes in the state involve motorcycles. That means that motorcycle riders have a disproportionately high risk of a fatal crash when compared with other kinds of vehicles.

That isn’t the only frightening statistic for people who love motorcycles. The rate of motorcycle fatalities has also increased in recent years. Between 2013 and 2017, annual motorcycle deaths increased from 87 to 103.

When you consider the fact that the blind spots of even small passenger vehicles are much larger than motorcycles, it’s easy to see how these smaller, open vehicles pose a risk for the people that drive them. Those who don’t drive motorcycles can help by always looking multiple times for both enclosed vehicles and motorcycles or pedestrians before maneuvering on the road.

Those injured on a motorcycle have legal rights

All too often, the cause of a motorcycle crash is a mistake made by the person in the larger vehicle. Unfortunately, the person on the motorcycle will likely pay the price for that other person’s mistake. If you got hurt because a driver failed to notice you or if your family lost a loved one for the same reason, you have rights.

You may be able to take action against the driver responsible for the crash. The first step toward figuring out your options is to sit down with a Colorado attorney familiar with personal injury laws and motorcycle accidents.