If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, would you know what to do next? Following a motorcycle accident, it’s natural to be shaken and confused, but it’s important to know the steps you should take in the aftermath of an accident. Knowing what to do after a crash, like filing a police report and calling on an experienced Denver personal injury attorney, can ensure your rights are protected. Additionally, if you pursue a Colorado motorcycle accident claim, taking these steps can dramatically increase your chances of receiving the financial compensation you deserve.
In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at the 5 things you should do after a Colorado motorcycle accident. We also briefly review the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and offer tips to help you avoid these crashes in the first place.
At the Paul Wilkinson Law Firm, our team of personal injury attorneys is dedicated to defending your rights. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident or any other type of personal injury accident, such as a car accident, truck accident, or pedestrian accident, we can help you file your claim and receive the financial compensation you deserve.
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What are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents happen every single day in the United States. Compared to a “fender bender” between two motor vehicles, accidents between a motorcycle and a motor vehicle have a higher chance for significant injuries or even loss of life. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), roughly 84,000 motorcyclists were injured in motorcycle accidents in 2019 alone.
While no two accidents are completely alike, there are many common causes of motorcycle accidents. By identifying the most common causes, we can then work to better inform both motorists and motorcyclists to keep our highways and roads safer for everyone.
Some of the most common causes of accidents with motorcycles include:
- Unsafe lane changes: always provide ample warning before making a lane change. It’s more challenging for drivers to see motorcycles as they’re changing lanes, especially if it’s a sudden or abrupt shift. Accidents may also occur when motorcyclists ride between lanes. This maneuver is known as “lane splitting.”
- Speeding: driving above the posted speed limit makes it much more difficult to slow down or come to a complete stop. Speeding also makes it more difficult to respond safely to changing road conditions.
- Driving under the influence: even just one alcoholic beverage can impair your ability to safely operate a motorcycle. Alcohol or drugs can slow your reaction time and impair your motor skills and critical thinking ability.
- Sudden stops: sudden stops are hazardous for motorcycle riders, which is why a motorcyclist should never closely tailgate a motor vehicle. Data show that rear-end collisions account for a large portion of motorcycle accidents.
- Dangerous road conditions: while it’s not always possible, adverse weather or poor road conditions should always be avoided. Adverse weather, such as snow, rain, or high winds can make it very challenging to safely operate a motorcycle. It’s wise to check the weather before heading out on the road. Poor road conditions, such as construction or a lack of maintenance, can also lead to motorcycle accidents.
5 Things to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Colorado
After a motorcycle accident, taking the following steps can ensure your safety, protect your rights, and improve your chances of successfully filing a personal injury claim:
- Move over to safety: if you’re able (and your bike is still operational), try to move yourself and your motorcycle to a place of safety. Move over to a nearby parking lot or even just the shoulder of the road so that you’re out of the way of traffic and prevent an even larger crash from occurring.
- Call 911: once you’re in a safe place, call 911 for two reasons. First, receiving medical attention following a motorcycle crash is critical—even if you don’t feel hurt. Often, following a crash, the adrenaline may mask the pain of an injury that will linger, and if left untreated, become worse. Calling 911 will also send the police to the scene of the crash. They will secure the scene of the accident, help you receive medical attention, and write up an official police report that objectively describes the incident.
- Exchange information with other drivers: while waiting for police and paramedics to arrive, you should exchange basic contact information and insurance information with anyone else involved in the accident. You’ll need this information to file a claim with your insurance company. However, don’t feel pressured to share more than this basic information, and never admit guilt, even if you believe you could have been partially responsible.
- Gather evidence: if you decide to file a motorcycle accident claim, then evidence from the crash scene will prove essential. Take pictures (using your smartphone is fine) of the accident, including your motorcycle, any other vehicles involved, and any property damage. Additionally, if any eyewitnesses are present, you can ask for their account of what they saw.
- Call an experienced motorcycle accident attorney: after calling your insurance provider to notify them about the crash, you should make another very important call. Call an experienced Denver motorcycle accident attorney who can help you understand your cases and assess your legal options.
Tips to Help You Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s critical to know what to do next. But of course, the best case scenario is never to be involved in a motorcycle crash in the first place. It’s the responsibility of both motorcyclists and motorists to practice safe driving habits to reduce the risk of an accident.
To reduce the chance of being in a motorcycle accident, here are some tips to help you stay safer when out on the road:
- Always keep your full attention on the road.
- Never assume that a driver sees you, especially at an intersection.
- Be extra cautious when approaching intersections and lights.
- Never try lane splitting between two vehicles or lanes.
- Always obey posted speed limits and traffic signals.
- Never operate your motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Wear reflective clothing—especially if you ride at night.
- If possible, avoid poor weather conditions like snow or rain.
- Keep up with regular motorcycle maintenance.
Conclusion – 5 Things to Do After a Colorado Motorcycle Accident
Following a motorcycle accident, you’ll most likely feel confused, disoriented, or even afraid. But it’s important to know the steps you should take immediately following an accident. This can help to ensure you receive the assistance you need. Deciding to pursue a personal injury claim will increase your chances of receiving the fair and full financial compensation you deserve.
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t feel you need to navigate this process alone. Hire an experienced accident attorney who has represented cases similar to yours, so they understand the unique circumstances of your suit.
At the Paul Wilkinson Law Firm, we understand what it takes to represent (and win) motorcycle accident cases. All you have to do is Call Paul. We’ll schedule your free consultation to help you better understand the legal options in front of you.
For more information call (303) 333-7285. Together, we can get you on the road to recovery and get the maximum settlement possible.
The Paul Wilkinson Law Firm is a team of personal injury attorneys in Denver, CO serving victims of car, truck and motorcycle accidents. Each of our lawyers is licensed with the Colorado State Bar (CBA) and specialize in injury law.
We've recovered tens of millions of dollars in personal injury settlements and verdicts for our clients. For 13+ years we've helped thousands of people get back on their feet after experiencing serious injuries. We will take your case to trial and get the maximum settlement possible.
