In the aftermath of an automotive accident, investigators begin piecing together the events that led to the crash as soon as they arrive on the scene. This process involves examining the wreckage, assessing the road conditions at the scene, interviewing witnesses and reconstructing the crash. The more information that Colorado police have in regard to a serious or fatal accident, the better the chances that they will be able to determine how the crash took place, as well as which party is at fault.
A recent motorcycle crash provides an example of the challenges Colorado investigators can face. Police believe that a 52-year-old man was riding a motorcycle southbound on Interstate 25 when he ran off the left side of the roadway. At that point, he lost control of the bike and rolled several times, losing contact with the vehicle at some point as it rolled.
The man ended up lying in the travel lanes amid debris from the crash. Another vehicle entered the area and ran over the man, but did not stop. Police are not certain whether this individual was aware that he or she struck a person, but are asking the public for help in identifying the vehicle and driver. In addition, a woman driving a red or maroon pickup truck stopped at the scene, but left before police arrived. The Colorado authorities are urging this woman to come forward and assist them in the investigation.
In this case, investigators need additional information to determine how this loss of life occurred. It is possible that another vehicle was involved, or that the rider was forced off the road. It is also a possibility that the second driver who struck the man is guilty of hit-and-run. If Colorado police are able to determine that another party was at fault in this fatal accident, the family of the victim would have the option of pursuing a wrongful death suit against that party.
Source: kktv.com, “Police Urge Witness to Motorcycle Crash to Come Forward,” March 12, 2013