The sudden loss of a loved one in a collision can disrupt your whole life. Sadly, fatal motorcycle accidents in Northglenn are common, as motorcycles have less structural protection than cars, and other motorists often overlook motorcyclists in their blind spots.
If someone you love died in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you have every right to hold that person legally and financially accountable. Our seasoned motorcycle crash attorneys can review your case and options to help you pursue justice.
How Common Are Fatal Motorcycle Crashes?
Deadly motorbike wrecks in Northglenn are a public safety concern, with bikers facing disproportionately high risk compared to other drivers. While motorcycles represent only a small share of registered vehicles, they account for a significant number of traffic fatalities each year. Crashes involving motorcycles are far more likely to result in severe and life-altering injuries or death than those involving other types of vehicles.
Helmet Use
Although state officials and the Colorado Department of Transportation strongly recommend wearing helmets, state traffic laws do not require universal helmet use. Per the guidance of the Colorado Department of Public Safety, only operators and passengers under 18 must wear them. However, eye protection is mandatory for everyone. Nearly half of fatal motorcycle crashes involve individuals who were not wearing helmets at the time of the collision.
Common Contributing Factors
Some of the typical factors leading to severe and deadly motorcycle crashes in Northglenn include the following:
- Vehicles turning left into the path of an approaching motorcycle
- Drivers failing to see the biker before switching lanes or making other maneuvers
- Alcohol or drug impairment of motorcycle operators or other drivers traveling near them on the roadway
- Reckless driving and speeding above the posted limit, or traveling too fast for the current traffic or weather conditions
- Gravel, potholes, uneven pavement, or wet roads that increase the risk of crashes and often result in loss of control
- Riding between lanes of slow-moving traffic, called lane-splitting, which can surprise other drivers and lead to accidents
Our attorneys can investigate the collision and gather the crucial evidence needed to prove fault and obtain a fair settlement from the responsible party for the loss of your loved one.
How to Pursue a Wrongful Death Action
Specific family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit after a Northglenn fatal motorbike crash caused by someone else’s negligence. Under the Colorado Wrongful Death Act, the surviving spouse has exclusive rights to seek legal action during the first year after the accident. They may also choose to include the decedent’s heirs in the suit.
If there is no spouse or the spouse chooses not to file the claim, the decedent’s heirs, including children or lineal descendants, may file the action after the first year. If there are no eligible family members, a personal representative may pursue monetary damages on behalf of the estate.
The petitioner must file the claim within two years from the damage of the cause of action. Missing the deadline may mean losing eligibility to obtain a settlement. There may be an exception in some cases, and our attorney can answer specific questions after reviewing your case.
Call Our Northglenn Attorneys Today to Pursue Justice for a Fatal Motorbike Crash
Driving motorcycles provides many advantages. However, motorcyclists are exposed to a greater risk of severe injuries or death in collisions. Even when they follow every traffic law and safety guideline, they are at risk of harm from other careless drivers. If another party’s thoughtless actions caused the death of your loved one, our attorneys familiar with fatal motorcycle accidents in Northglenn can help you seek accountability. Call us today to schedule a one-on-one appointment with one of our compassionate attorneys.
