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Colorado Springs Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Colorado Springs

Motorcycles offer a unique sense of freedom on the open roads of Colorado Springs, but they also come with heightened risks. Riders face greater exposure to severe injuries than those in enclosed vehicles, and a single moment of negligence from another driver can lead to life-changing consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Colorado Springs, the legal team at Pribila and Fields is here to provide the experienced representation you need.
 
Our Colorado Springs personal injury attorneys understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face. We work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected, your voice is heard, and you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries and losses. From gathering critical evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, our goal is to help you rebuild your life after a devastating crash.
 

Colorado Motorcycle Injury Claims

Motorcycle injury claims in Colorado differ significantly from other personal injury cases because of the unique risks and vulnerabilities riders face. Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists have little physical protection against the force of a crash. This often results in catastrophic injuries, extended recovery times, and a more substantial financial impact. For victims in Colorado Springs, these cases are high-stakes matters that require a focused legal approach.
 
Motorcycle accident claims often involve multiple layers of legal and factual analysis. The attorneys at Pribila and Fields combine a deep understanding of Colorado traffic laws with years of experience countering insurance company tactics. We know that riders are frequently and unfairly painted as thrill-seekers or risk-takers. These stereotypes can undermine valid claims, so we actively dismantle them by presenting clear evidence, eyewitness testimony, accident reconstruction reports, and expert medical opinions.
 
A successful Colorado motorcycle injury claim can address a wide range of damages, including:
  • Medical expenses: This includes all current and future costs related to your injuries, such as hospital bills, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, rehabilitation programs, and any required medical equipment. Severe injuries often mean ongoing care for months or years, and your claim should reflect those long-term needs.
  • Lost wages: Many victims are unable to return to work for extended periods. We calculate not only your past lost income but also reduced earning potential if your injuries prevent you from resuming your previous occupation or working at the same capacity.
  • Pain and suffering: Financial losses are only part of the picture. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for the emotional toll, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and any ongoing physical discomfort you endure as a result of the accident.
  • Property damage: Your motorcycle and protective gear represent a significant investment. A claim can include the repair or replacement of your bike, helmet, and other damaged riding equipment.
  • Wrongful death damages: If a loved one has lost their life in a motorcycle crash, our Colorado Springs wrongful death attorneys can help surviving family members seek justice. Compensation may cover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and the loss of the deceased’s income and support.
At Pribila and Fields, we have a proven history of securing fair settlements and verdicts for injured riders across Colorado Springs and the surrounding communities. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery, confident that your case is in capable hands.
 

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents in Colorado Springs can occur in seconds, but the effects can last a lifetime. Even the most careful rider can be seriously injured because of another person’s negligence. Understanding the most frequent causes of these accidents not only strengthens your claim but also highlights the need for heightened safety and awareness.
 
Here are some of the most common causes we see in our practice:
  • Driver inattention or distraction: Distracted driving is one of the top contributors to motorcycle accidents. Whether it’s texting, adjusting GPS settings, eating, or engaging in conversation with passengers, inattentive drivers often fail to check their mirrors or blind spots. This can result in devastating collisions with motorcycles they never even saw.
  • Failure to yield the right-of-way: Intersections are especially dangerous for motorcyclists. Many crashes occur when drivers fail to yield properly, for example, turning across a rider’s path or merging without signaling. The lack of visibility for smaller vehicles makes it essential that all motorists stay alert.
  • Left-turn accidents: Among the most fatal types of motorcycle crashes are those involving left turns. These happen when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle, misjudging its speed or distance. The impact often sends the rider over the vehicle or into oncoming traffic, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed increases stopping distances and reduces a driver’s reaction time. When combined with the smaller profile of a motorcycle, speeding drivers are more likely to cause high-impact collisions, which can lead to catastrophic injuries.
  • Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug impairment drastically increases the risk of a serious crash. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination, all of which endanger motorcyclists on Colorado Springs roads.
  • Dangerous road conditions: Motorcycles are more sensitive to road hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, slick pavement, and uneven surfaces. Poor maintenance of city streets and rural highways in and around Colorado Springs can create dangerous conditions that contribute to accidents.
  • Vehicle defects: Sometimes the cause of a crash is mechanical failure, either on the motorcycle or the other vehicle involved. Faulty brakes, worn tires, or steering issues can lead to loss of control. In such cases, our Colorado Springs catastrophic injury attorneys investigate potential product liability claims against manufacturers or maintenance providers.
By pinpointing the cause of your motorcycle accident, Pribila and Fields can build a compelling case for compensation. We consult with accident reconstruction experts, review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and gather every piece of evidence needed to hold the responsible parties accountable. Identifying the true cause is not only essential for your case but also helps prevent similar accidents from happening to others in our community.
 

Determining Liability in a Colorado Motorcycle Accident

Determining who is at fault in a Colorado Springs motorcycle accident is one of the most important and often most contested parts of the legal process. Liability dictates whether you can recover compensation and how much you may receive. In Colorado, the modified comparative negligence rule applies. This means you can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident, but your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, your recovery would be reduced to $80,000.
 
Establishing liability requires a meticulous investigation into the events leading up to the crash. At Pribila and Fields, our legal team leaves no stone unturned when building your case. We take a comprehensive approach that includes:
  • Reviewing police reports and witness statements: Official reports provide critical initial findings, and eyewitness accounts can shed light on the sequence of events from multiple perspectives.
  • Analyzing accident scene photos and video footage: Images and video evidence can show vehicle positions, traffic signals, weather conditions, and other factors that help reconstruct what happened.
  • Consulting accident reconstruction experts: These specialists use scientific methods to recreate the accident, offering expert testimony that can be highly persuasive in negotiations or court.
  • Examining vehicle damage and skid marks: Physical evidence from the vehicles and roadway can reveal the speed, angle of impact, and whether braking or evasive maneuvers occurred before the collision.
  • Obtaining cell phone records, traffic light data, or surveillance footage: Digital evidence can prove distraction, speeding through a red light, or other forms of negligence.
When insurance companies attempt to minimize payouts or deny valid claims without reasonable cause, it may constitute bad faith. In such cases, our Colorado Springs insurance bad faith attorneys take immediate and decisive action to hold insurers accountable. Our goal is to present a clear, evidence-based case that leaves no room for doubt about who is responsible for your injuries.
 

Common Injuries in Colorado Motorcycle Accidents

Because motorcycles offer no protective barrier between the rider and the road, accidents in Colorado Springs often result in severe, sometimes life-changing injuries. The absence of structural protection, combined with the force of impact from a vehicle or the road surface, makes motorcyclists highly vulnerable.
 
At Pribila and Fields, we have represented clients suffering from a wide range of injuries, including:
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, the force of a collision can cause significant brain trauma. TBIs can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, mood changes, and difficulty with concentration, sometimes requiring years of therapy.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility, independence, and quality of life. Such injuries often require lifelong medical care and adaptive equipment.
  • Broken bones and fractures: High-speed or high-impact crashes frequently cause multiple fractures, which can involve long recovery periods and, in severe cases, permanent disability. Our Colorado broken bone and internal injury attorneys are experienced in securing fair compensation for these injuries.
  • Road rash and severe lacerations: When a rider is thrown from their motorcycle and slides across the pavement, the friction can cause deep abrasions known as road rash. Severe cases may require skin grafts and carry a high risk of infection.
  • Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening. Prompt medical attention is critical to prevent complications.
  • Amputations: In extreme cases, the severity of an injury may require surgical amputation. This type of injury permanently alters a victim’s lifestyle, earning capacity, and independence.
These injuries extend beyond physical pain. They impact your ability to work, care for your family, and enjoy activities you once loved. At Pribila and Fields, we fight for damages that address both the immediate financial burden and the long-term challenges you face. We understand that a serious motorcycle accident is not just a medical crisis; it is a life-altering event, and we are here to help you through it.
 

Colorado Motorcycle Laws Every Rider Should Know

Understanding Colorado’s motorcycle laws is essential for both safety and protecting your legal rights after a crash. For riders in Colorado Springs, knowing these regulations can also strengthen your case if you are injured in an accident. At Pribila and Fields, we have seen how compliance with the law can help establish credibility and counter claims of rider negligence.
 

Helmet requirements

Colorado does not require all riders to wear a helmet, but it is mandatory for those under 18, including passengers. Riders and passengers under 18 must also wear Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmets. While adults may legally ride without a helmet, wearing one can significantly reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury and may influence the outcome of a claim.
 

Eye protection laws

All riders, regardless of age, must wear eye protection unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen. Proper eyewear can prevent debris, insects, and wind from impairing vision and causing an accident.
 

Lane splitting 

Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is illegal in Colorado. However, motorcyclists are allowed to share a lane with one other motorcycle riding side-by-side.
 

Insurance requirements

 All motorcycle operators must carry the minimum liability insurance required by state law:
  • $25,000 for bodily injury to one person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury to two or more people
  • $15,000 for property damage
Optional coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, can provide additional security and is highly recommended.
 

Statute of limitations

In most cases, you have three years from the date of a motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim in Colorado. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering any compensation.
By understanding and following these laws, riders in Colorado Springs can better protect themselves on the road and in the courtroom.
 

How Can Pribila and Fields Help After a Colorado Springs Motorcycle Accident?

Choosing the right law firm after a Colorado Springs motorcycle accident can mean the difference between receiving the bare minimum and securing a settlement or verdict that truly supports your recovery. At Pribila and Fields, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized, aggressive, and strategic legal representation for every client we serve. We understand that your case is about more than just numbers; it’s about your health, your future, and your peace of mind.
 
From the moment you contact us, we begin a thorough investigation into your accident. We gather evidence, consult with expert witnesses, and handle all communications with insurance companies so you can focus on your recovery. We know the tactics insurers use to reduce payouts, and we are prepared to counter them at every turn.
 

What Compensation Is Available After a Motorcycle Accident?

Motorcycle accidents in Colorado Springs can have devastating financial, physical, and emotional consequences. Our goal is to ensure that every aspect of your loss is addressed in your claim, including:
  • Current and future medical expenses: This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescription medications, assistive devices, and any long-term medical support you may require.
  • Lost income and loss of future earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, we fight for compensation that reflects your total loss of earnings over time.
  • Physical pain, emotional suffering, and reduced enjoyment of life: These non-economic damages recognize the profound ways your injuries have altered your daily living, relationships, and overall happiness.
  • Motorcycle repairs or replacement: Your bike and riding gear are part of your lifestyle and your investment. We ensure that property damage costs are fully accounted for in your claim.
  • Funeral and burial expenses in wrongful death cases: If your loved one has passed away due to a motorcycle crash, our Colorado Springs wrongful death attorneys can pursue justice on behalf of your family and recover the financial support you have lost.

 

Why Choose Pribila and Fields?

There are many law firms in Colorado, but our clients choose us because we combine local insight with a proven record of success:
  • Local expertise: We have deep roots in Colorado Springs, giving us firsthand knowledge of local courts, judges, and insurance company practices.
  • Proven track record: Our attorneys have secured significant results for victims of motorcycle accidents, including substantial settlements and jury verdicts.
  • Client-focused approach: We treat every client with respect and compassion while delivering aggressive representation.
  • Trial readiness: We prepare every case as though it will go to trial. This proactive approach often results in stronger settlement offers from the opposing side.

 

Additional Legal Services

While we are highly experienced in representing motorcycle accident victims, Pribila and Fields also provides skilled legal advocacy in many other areas of personal injury law, including:
Whether you are recovering from a car accident, dealing with an insurance dispute, or coping with a serious injury, we bring the same dedication and attention to detail to every case.
 

Contact Pribila and Fields if You've Been Injured in a Colorado Springs Motorcycle Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Colorado Springs, time is of the essence. The sooner you involve an attorney, the sooner we can protect your rights, gather evidence before it disappears, and build a compelling case on your behalf. Delays can weaken your claim and give insurance companies the upper hand.
 
Our experienced legal team is ready to:
  • Investigate the cause of your accident.
  • Handle all communications with insurance companies.
  • Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement.
  • Take your case to trial if necessary to achieve justice.
We understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll a motorcycle accident can have on you and your family. At Pribila and Fields, we are committed to helping you move forward with confidence.
Call us today at (719) 888-3720 or connect with us online to schedule your free consultation. We will listen to your story, explain your options, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Your future matters and we are here to protect it.
 
 

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Q&A

Our Colorado Springs motorcycle accident attorneys assist by thoroughly investigating the accident to determine fault, causation, and all possible coverage options. With over 40 years of combined experience, we focus on securing the full compensation you deserve, including for medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
Common causes include drivers' failures to yield, lane changes in front of riders, and rear-ending. Our team's deep understanding of these issues allows us to effectively advocate for motorcycle accident victims, aiming for outcomes that recognize the true extent of their losses and recovery needs.
Yes, lane filtering became legal statewide on August 7, 2024, but only in very limited situations. Riders may slowly filter between fully stopped vehicles when the lane is wide enough and the motorcycle does not exceed 15 mph. Lane splitting in moving traffic is still not allowed, so liability will still turn on whether each party followed the new rules. If a driver strikes a rider who was filtering lawfully, that driver’s insurer cannot simply deny the claim because the rider was between lanes. Conversely, filtering outside the legal conditions could reduce your recovery under Colorado’s comparative negligence rules. Your attorney will analyze traffic camera footage, witness accounts, and police reports to show you complied with the statute and CDOT guidance.
Colorado does not require riders 18 and older to wear helmets, although riders and passengers under 18 must wear DOT-approved helmets. Not wearing a helmet does not automatically bar an injury claim because adults are not legally required to wear one. Insurers may still argue non-helmet use contributed to certain head injuries, so your lawyer will focus on proving the other party’s negligence caused the crash. Eye protection requirements still apply, and following gear rules can help demonstrate you rode responsibly. Medical experts can separate which injuries were caused by the collision versus any lack of protective equipment. Evidence about speed, right-of-way, and traffic compliance usually matters more than helmet use for adults.
Most motorcycle crash claims that arise from the use or operation of a motor vehicle must be filed within 3 years from the date of the accident. If a government vehicle or a dangerous condition on public property is involved, you may have to file a formal notice of claim within 182 days or risk losing your rights. These deadlines are strict and missing them can end your case even if liability is clear. Your lawyer will also preserve evidence quickly because traffic and dash-cam footage can be deleted or overwritten. If you are unsure whether a public entity is involved, assume the short notice may apply and get legal help immediately. Timely action protects your ability to recover medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
We understand the immense pressure and uncertainty following a motorcycle accident. Our goal is to alleviate your burden by handling every aspect of your claim, allowing you to focus on recovery. If you need compassionate and competent legal assistance, reach out to us for a free consultation. We're here to help you navigate through this challenging time and work towards securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Additional Information in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Department of Transportation - Motorcycle Laws: Essential information on Colorado's motorcycle laws, including licensing, helmet requirements, and safety tips. It's a valuable resource for understanding your responsibilities and rights as a motorcyclist in Colorado.
Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook: Official manual from the Colorado Department of Revenue provides comprehensive information on motorcycle operation, safety, and state-specific laws. It's an excellent resource for both new and experienced riders.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Motorcycle Safety: NHTSA Comprehensive resources on motorcycle safety, including tips on riding safely, wearing the right gear, and understanding the dynamics of motorcycle riding. It's beneficial for motorcyclists nationwide, including those in Colorado Springs.
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety - Motorcycle and Helmet Laws by State: Provides an up-to-date overview of motorcycle and helmet laws across the United States, including Colorado. It helps riders understand the legal requirements for helmet use and other safety regulations.
We're here to help you get justice & our friendly, qualified attorneys can help you pursue your claim & get the compensation you deserve.

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Pribila and Fields, P.C. has successfully handled thousands of personal injury cases and tried scores of cases where an insurance carrier refused to pay fair compensation for injuries, losses or damages.

contact us

18 E. Monument Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
reception@pribila.com

Phone: (719) 888-3720
Fax: (719) 473-2542

The information provided on this website is offered purely for informational purposes. It is not intended to create or promote an attorney-client relationship and does not constitute and should not be relied upon as legal advice. It is not intended to seek professional employment in any state where lawyers in the firm are not admitted to practice, or in any state where this website would not comply with applicable requirements concerning advertisements and solicitations.

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