Colorado’s motorcycle crashes have increased in recent years. In 2024 alone, the state had 162 fatalities from motorcycle accidents – a record high in the last decade or so. The Northeast Colorado region, which includes Broomfield, accounted for about 18 percent of those motorcycle deaths.
For motorcyclists and their families, motorcycle accidents in Broomfield can have disastrous results. Goldman and Haydel Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers provides dedicated legal representation to help victims navigate the complex aftermath of motorcycle crashes and secure the compensation they deserve.
Talk to Goldman and Haydel about your potential motorcycle accident claim. Call us at (720) 571-0606 today.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Driver Negligence and Visibility Issues
One of the most prevalent causes of motorcycle accidents is driver negligence. Many motorists admit they often fail to see motorcycles until it’s too late, particularly in situations involving blind spots or when motorcycles are obscured by larger vehicles. This visibility challenge frequently leads to dangerous situations, especially during lane changes or left-hand turns.
Reckless Driving and Impairment
Motorcycle accidents frequently result from reckless driving behaviors, including:
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Distracted driving
- Following too closely.
Liability in Colorado Motorcycle Accidents
In Colorado, claiming compensation means you must prove that the other party was indeed liable for your injuries and losses. This requires proving the elements of liability, namely:
- The at-fault party had a duty of care to reasonably prevent harm to the motorcyclist
- The at-fault party violated this duty of care
- Their breach directly resulted in the injuries sustained
- The injured party experienced losses due to the injury, such as medical bills, lost income, or physical and emotional suffering.
In rarer situations, an investigation may reveal that a defective motorcycle part manufacturer or a negligent road maintenance agency is responsible for the motorcycle accident.
Regardless of what caused your motorcycle crash, the law firm of Goldman and Haydel is well-equipped to investigate it and establish fault. Reach out to us for legal help.
Colorado Motorcycle Laws
Motorcycle riders in Broomfield, Colorado are required to follow specific laws and regulations to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. The Colorado Department of Transportation provides detailed guidelines for motorcycle operation in the state. Motorcyclists must adhere to the same traffic laws that apply to other motor vehicles, including obeying traffic signals, coming to a full stop at intersections, and respecting the right-of-way.
The following Colorado motorcycle laws could impact your claim:
- Helmet use: Riders and passengers under 18 years old are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet. While motorcyclists 18 and older are not legally obligated to wear a helmet, doing so is strongly advised.
- Use of eye protection: Goggles or a visored helmet are required for all motorcycle riders and passengers, regardless of age. A windshield does not meet the legal requirements for eye protection.
- Footrest use: Motorcycles must be equipped with footrests for passengers, and passengers are required to use them while the motorcycle is in motion.
- Passenger positioning: Passengers are not permitted to sit in front of the rider on a motorcycle.
- Lane-splitting: Lane-splitting, which involves passing or overtaking vehicles by riding between lanes, is prohibited in Colorado. However, motorcyclists are allowed to share a lane with another motorcycle.
Comparative Negligence System
Colorado operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means victims can recover damages even if they are partially at fault for the accident, provided their fault does not reach 50% of the responsibility. The compensation amount is reduced by the victim’s percentage of fault.
If the injured party’s share of fault is 50% or more, they are likely barred from receiving any compensation.
Statute of Limitations
Motorcycle accident victims in Colorado must file their personal injury lawsuits within three years of the accident date. This time limit is crucial, as failing to sue within this timeframe can result in losing your right to seek compensation through the courts.
What Should I Do Right After a Motorcycle Accident?
After a motorcycle accident, taking immediate action is crucial for both your health and potential legal claim. First, get medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Document the accident scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses and other parties involved, but avoid discussing fault or making statements about the accident.
Insurance Requirements
Colorado law mandates that all motorcyclists carry minimum liability insurance coverage which covers:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 for property damage.
Types of Compensation Available For Motorcycle Crashes In Colorado
Filing a successful claim after a motorcycle accident in Colorado enables victims to recover compensation for their economic and non-economic losses. Typical compensation in these claims may include:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Long-term care expenses.
In some cases, claims may also involve additional non-economic damages specific to the individual’s situation, such as compensation for disfigurement, the loss of a limb, emotional distress, or diminished quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my motorcycle accident case take to resolve?
The duration of a motorcycle accident case varies significantly depending on several factors. Straightforward cases might settle in a few months, while complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability could take a year or more. Factors that influence the timeline include:
- The severity of injuries and recovery time
- The complexity of liability issues
- Insurance company cooperation
- Whether the case goes to trial.
What if the other driver was uninsured?
If you get into an accident with an uninsured driver, you may still have options for compensation. Your own insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may be able to provide compensation for your injuries and other losses. Additionally, we can examine other potential sources of compensation such as third-party liability or your own medical payments coverage.
How much can I get for my motorcycle accident case?
The value of a motorcycle accident case depends on numerous factors:
- Severity and permanence of injuries
- Total medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Impact on quality of life.
Each case is unique, and an experienced personal injury attorney can help evaluate your specific circumstances to determine a fair compensation amount.
What happens if I were partially at fault for the accident in Broomfield?
Under Colorado’s comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages if you were partially at fault, as long as your responsibility for the accident did not reach 50%. Your percentage of fault will be deducted from your reimbursement. For instance, if you were determined to be 20% at fault and your losses were $100,000, you may get $80,000.
Choose Goldman and Haydel Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers
Don’t let the aftermath of a motorcycle accident stop you from getting compensation. The law firm of Goldman and Haydel Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers is ready to help you navigate this challenging time with high-quality legal guidance and representation.
With over 25 years of combined experience, our attorneys understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face. Our dedicated team of motorcycle accident attorneys offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options.
When you contact us, you’ll receive:
- A free initial case evaluation
- Personalized attention from experienced attorneys
- Clear explanation of your legal rights and options
- No upfront costs – we only get paid if you win.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your rights. Colorado’s statute of limitations means time is of the essence. Contact Goldman and Haydel Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers today at (720) 571-0606. Our Broomfield office is at 520 Zang Street, Suite 214, Broomfield, CO 80021. We’re eager to listen to you and start working with you.
