Colorado is home to thousands of motorcyclists. As warmer weather arrives, there will be more and more motorcycles present on roadways across the state. Riders are subjected to dangers and risks that motorists in larger passenger vehicles don’t have to face. The Colorado Department of Transportation has designated May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month to increase awareness and alert drivers that there will be greater numbers of motorcyclists traveling as the weather warms.
Tragic motorcycle versus vehicle accident
A recent accident in Fort Collins claimed the life of a motorcyclist and underscored the need for increased safety and awareness for all drivers. The accident happened during the morning hours at the intersection of College Avenue and Triangle Drive. According to reports, the motorcyclist was headed south on College Avenue when an SUV on Triangle Drive made a left turn to head north on College Avenue. The SUV pulled into the path of the motorcycle, causing a collision.
Watch out for motorcycles
Authorities said the motorcyclist was rushed to a hospital but did not survive. A sergeant with the Fort Collins Police urged all drivers to do their part to keep roads safe. According to data from the Colorado Department of Transportation, 187 motorists have been killed in crashes so far this year, with 17 of those being motorcyclists. Last year, CDOT said 137 motorcyclists died on Colorado roadways, which accounted for nearly 20% of all traffic fatalities.
All drivers need to stay alert and be on the lookout for motorcycles, especially as the weather warms. Unfortunately, there will always be those drivers who are not as cautious as they should be behind the wheel. Those in Colorado who have suffered injuries or loss in motorcycle accidents caused by a negligent driver reserve the right to seek legal recourse. By contacting a skilled litigator and filing a claim, victims and families can begin the process of pursuing monetary recovery for all applicable damages.