Most motorcyclists killed in accidents weren’t wearing a helmet. But there are many ways to make a crash more likely.
Learn how to decrease your risk of being involved or injured in a motorcycle accident.
Warmer weather is here, which means more motorcycles on Colorado roads. Both motorists and riders should follow safe driving practices.
Know Colorado Laws
Many Colorado laws are intended to protect both motorists and motorcyclists:
- In Colorado, motorcyclists must obey the same traffic laws as the operators of other vehicles.
- Riders 18 and older are not required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle in Colorado. But riders under 18 must wear DOT-approved helmets.
- Bikers must not pass or overtake a vehicle traveling in the same lane, and they must not share a lane with a car. But riders may share a lane with another motorcycle.
- Motorists must not behave aggressively or endanger other vehicles on the road–including motorcycles. If you encounter motorists driving dangerously in Colorado, report them to the Colorado Highway Patrol by calling *CSP (that is, *277).
Do Not Be Distracted
Failing to pay attention while on the road courts disaster.
To help spread the message about the dangers of distracted driving, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is partnering with local Colorado media personalities Jayson Luber and Kathy Sabine in its Get Turned On campaign. The campaign encourages all drivers (whether in cars or on motorcycles) who carry smartphones to use apps to prevent distraction. Users with iPhones are asked to use the Do Not Disturb While Driving feature to block text messages and other notifications.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Whether driving a car or riding a motorcycle, you should be aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly when changing lanes, passing another vehicle, or approaching an intersection. Safe driving practices that you should never skip include periodically checking blind spots, glancing often at mirrors to stay aware of nearby traffic, using turn signals whenever making a move that will affect other drivers, and being aware of all dangerous weather conditions and other road hazards along your route.
Maintain Your Bike or Vehicle
No matter what kind of vehicle you are operating, you need to ensure that it is road-ready and properly maintained. Keep your car (or motorcycle) running in top form this summer by studying the maintenance section of your owner’s manual. It will provide a timetable for performing certain routine maintenance:
- Check the tire pressure and inspect tires for cuts, abrasions, and uneven wear before each time you ride a motorcycle. For a car, make these inspections monthly.
- Change the oil and filter and check all fluid levels every three months or 3,000 miles.
- Ensure that the battery terminals remain free of corrosion. A wire brush and a solution of water and baking soda works well.
Lack of proper training is a major factor in motorcycle accidents. If you are new to biking or the long winter has left your skills a bit rusty, consider completing a Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course, which is designed to help bikers of all levels ride safely.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact experienced Colorado personal injury attorney, Dan Rosen to schedule your free initial consultation.