In 2022, 149 motorcyclists were killed in Colorado, representing 20% of the state’s total traffic fatalities but only 3% of the state’s vehicle registrations. This is a record high. By design, motorcycles do not offer the same protections as a car or truck, and even minor accidents can be especially devastating. If you live in the Longmont area and you or someone you love was involved in a motorcycle accident, you need the guidance and expertise of a seasoned Longmont motorcycle accident attorney.
At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., we pride ourselves on giving each client the individualized attention they deserve. We understand this may be a very physically, emotionally, and financially challenging time in your life, and our priority is to help you achieve a successful outcome.
Any motor vehicle accident can result in devastating injuries. However, motorcycle riders are at a much greater risk of catastrophic injuries. The lack of protection and safety equipment leaves riders exposed to greater injury. Many motorcycle injuries are common in both cars and bikes. However, some are unique to motorcycle wrecks.
Motorcycle accident injuries include:
Even a minor motorcycle crash can result in severe injuries with permanent consequences.
You may be entitled to compensation if you suffered minor road rash or severe life-altering injuries. A Longmont motorcycle accident lawyer can help you determine your legal recourse.
The cause of a motorcycle accident may be immediately apparent, but often, it is less obvious and only identified after a thorough investigation. No matter the situation, there are many potential causes of a motorcycle crash, but there are four that we see time and time again:
One common cause of motorcycle accidents is another driver’s negligence. If a car, truck, or bus drives negligently on the road, it can lead to devastating consequences for motorcyclists.
Driver negligence can include other conduct and actions, such as:
A general lack of awareness and respect for motorcycles can result in avoidable accidents.
Poorly maintained roads typically pose a more significant hazard to motorcyclists than car drivers. While uneven payment or a moderate pothole may do little to a car, it can be catastrophic to a motorcycle. Many roads, especially in rural neighborhoods, are less maintained and in poorer condition.
It may sound contrary to logic, but ideal weather conditions contribute to more motorcycle accidents. In 2021, 83% of fatal motorcycle crashes occurred in good weather conditions. Although it might initially sound illogical because you typically expect more motor vehicle accidents in bad weather conditions, it does logically follow that there would be more motorcycle accidents in good weather. This is because most avid and experienced motorcyclists will not ride in poor weather conditions. Many more bikers will likely be on the road when the weather is good.
As with any motor vehicle, a malfunction or manufacturing defect can cause a motorcycle to crash. For instance, if the bike’s brakes malfunction or there is a defective fuel line, it can lead to a severe accident. If that happens, the brakes or motorcycle manufacturer may be liable for your injuries.
You may be entitled to recover compensation following a motorcycle accident. There are several types of compensation an accident victim may be eligible to recover, including:
Determining what compensation you may be entitled to can be challenging. Our Longmont motorcycle accident attorney can help you calculate and fight for all the damages you are eligible to receive.
While there is no legal requirement that you obtain a lawyer to pursue a civil lawsuit in Colorado, we highly recommend consulting with experienced counsel. A seasoned motorcycle accident attorney can provide guidance and advice, conduct an investigation, request evidence, speak with the police, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and help you pursue a motorcycle crash lawsuit for damages.
When seeking the right Longmont motorcycle accident attorney, you must consider several factors: experience, reputation, location, and approach. At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., we have over 100 years of collective experience helping those injured in even the most horrific accidents. We provide personalized, compassionate representation to each of our clients. Contact us over the phone or through our website to schedule your free consultation.