Motorcycles increase the risk of injury compared to cars for riders in exchange for greater freedom and thrill. Due to the increased risk, motorcyclists expect the same or more care from drivers than other motorists may receive. No motorcyclist deserves to suffer personal injury because someone else is not operating their vehicle with care or following the rules of the road.
If you are a motorcyclist, you likely know the risks you face anytime to go for a ride. Being careful and wearing appropriate safety gear is advantageous, but accidents can still happen. Turning to a Westminster motorcycle accident lawyer if you have been hurt in a crash caused by a negligent motorist could help you recover collision losses.
Injuries that Follow a Motorcycle Collision
Collisions involving motorcycles can occur when drivers:
- Fail to look for motorcyclists before changing lanes or turning
- Do not give motorcyclists enough room on the road to operate their vehicles
- Operate a vehicle while drunk, high, impaired, or distracted
Any of these mistakes can end with a severely injured biker, even if the rider was careful and taking precautions. The injuries can be devastating and have lasting effects on the person. Motorcyclists may suffer any of the following injuries in a crash:
- Moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries
- Harm to the spinal cord, neck or back
- Broken bones and damage to internal organs
- Severe lacerations or abrasions to the skin (also called road rash)
- Hip injuries that may make walking difficult after a crash
These injuries can dramatically affect a motorcyclist’s life. Some motorcyclists may not be able to return to work or participate in the same activities for a significant amount of time. Others may find that they need wheelchairs or other devices to move around and complete everyday activities. Both temporary and permanent injuries and limitations cost money to heal or address. A lawsuit filed against a careless driver who caused a collision can request compensation to provide motorcyclists the financial help they deserve. A Westminster motorcycle accident attorney can help file a lawsuit to begin the recovery process.
Motorcyclists Should Take Precautions to Avoid Crashes
Motorcyclists should take precautions to reduce the likelihood of suffering serious injuries from an accident. Wearing a proper-fitting helmet significantly reduces the possibility of brain and head injuries. Specialized clothing covering the arms, legs, and torso can help prevent road rash and cuts in the case of a wreck. Obeying traffic laws and not riding while sleepy, impaired, or distracted may help a motorcyclist avoid a dangerous situation altogether.
Following these preventative measures can help motorcyclists who get injured in a crash receive the maximum amount of compensation possible. Colorado’s laws permit courts to reduce the number of compensation motorcyclists would otherwise receive if they did not follow the preventative measures, took unnecessary risks, or acted recklessly before the accident occurred.
A Westminster Motor Bike Collision Attorney is Available to Assist You
If you or a loved one is dealing with the injuries and expenses from a motorbike collision, you may be entitled to compensation that can help you recover. Motorists who are distracted, impaired, or violating the law and collide with motorcyclists, as a result, could be held liable for the medical and property damage expenses incurred by the rider.
A Westminster motorcycle accident lawyer is committed to helping victims of wrecks recover financial compensation for their suffering. Speak with an attorney at Mac Hester Law about whether you could receive restitution for your losses.