by Michael Clawson Pueblo Personal Injury A
Motorcycling through Pueblo and Southern Colorado offers some of the best riding in the state. Whether you're traveling along I-25, Highway 50, Highway 96, Pueblo Boulevard, or enjoying a weekend ride through Pueblo West, motorcycles provide a sense of freedom that few other vehicles can match.
Unfortunately, motorcycle riders also face significantly greater risks than drivers of passenger vehicles. When another driver makes a careless mistake, the motorcyclist often suffers the most serious injuries.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Pueblo, understanding the common causes of these crashes—and knowing what to do afterward—can protect both your health and your legal rights.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Often More Serious
Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, motorcycle riders have very little protection during a collision. Even while wearing a helmet and protective gear, riders are vulnerable to severe injuries when they are thrown from their motorcycle or struck by another vehicle.
At Clawson & Clawson, LLP, attorney Michael M. Clawson has represented injured Colorado residents for more than three decades. He understands that a motorcycle accident can change a person's life in a matter of seconds. Medical bills quickly add up, time away from work creates financial stress, and the physical recovery can take months—or even years.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Pueblo
Many motorcycle crashes occur because another driver simply fails to pay enough attention to the road. Some of the most common causes include:
Drivers Turning Left in Front of Motorcycles
One of the leading causes of serious motorcycle accidents occurs when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
Drivers often misjudge the motorcycle's speed or claim they "never saw the motorcycle." Unfortunately, by the time the rider has an opportunity to react, it is often too late to avoid the collision.
These crashes frequently occur at busy Pueblo intersections along Highway 50, Northern Avenue, Dillon Drive, and Pueblo Boulevard.
Distracted Driving
Cell phones continue to be one of the leading causes of traffic accidents throughout Colorado.
A driver looking down for only a few seconds may completely miss an approaching motorcycle. Texting, adjusting navigation systems, eating, or even talking with passengers can prevent drivers from seeing riders until it is too late.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Motorcycles have a much smaller profile than passenger vehicles.
Drivers who fail to properly check their mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes may sideswipe a motorcycle or force the rider off the roadway.
These accidents are especially common on Interstate 25 and other higher-speed roadways around Pueblo.
Speeding
Excessive speed reduces the amount of time drivers have to react to changing traffic conditions.
Higher speeds also increase the force of impact, often resulting in catastrophic injuries for motorcycle riders.
Following Too Closely
Motorcycles can stop more quickly than many passenger vehicles.
Drivers who follow too closely may rear-end a motorcycle when traffic slows unexpectedly, causing devastating injuries to the rider.
Impaired Drivers
Alcohol and drug impairment remain major contributors to serious crashes throughout Colorado.
When an impaired driver strikes a motorcycle, the consequences are often devastating because riders have virtually no protection from the impact.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Motorcycles are much more sensitive to roadway hazards than passenger vehicles.
Road hazards may include:
- Loose gravel
- Potholes
- Uneven pavement
- Construction zones
- Oil or fuel spills
- Poorly maintained roads
- Debris in the roadway
While a car may safely drive over these hazards, a motorcycle rider can easily lose control.
Serious Injuries Commonly Seen After Motorcycle Accidents
Because riders lack the protection of a vehicle frame, airbags, and seat belts, motorcycle accidents frequently result in severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
- Herniated discs
- Broken bones
- Pelvic and hip fractures
- Shoulder injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe road rash
- Facial injuries
- Permanent scarring
- Permanent disability
Many injured riders require multiple surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, physical therapy, and months away from work.
Some never fully recover.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Pueblo?
The decisions you make immediately after a crash can significantly impact both your recovery and your personal injury claim.
1. Call 911
Report the accident immediately and request law enforcement and emergency medical services.
Even if your injuries initially seem minor, adrenaline may mask serious conditions.
2. Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
Prompt medical treatment protects both your health and your legal claim.
Many serious injuries—including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding—are not immediately obvious after an accident.
Follow all treatment recommendations and attend every medical appointment.
3. Document the Scene
If you are physically able:
- Photograph all vehicles
- Photograph the motorcycle
- Photograph road conditions
- Photograph skid marks
- Photograph injuries
- Obtain witness information
- Save your riding gear and helmet
These items may become valuable evidence later.
4. Avoid Speaking With the Insurance Company Alone
Insurance adjusters often contact injured riders shortly after an accident.
Their goal is frequently to minimize the value of the claim—not maximize your recovery.
Before providing a recorded statement or accepting a settlement offer, it is wise to understand your legal rights.
Colorado's Comparative Negligence Law
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence system.
Insurance companies sometimes attempt to argue that the motorcyclist was speeding, weaving through traffic, or otherwise contributed to the crash.
Even when another driver clearly caused the collision, insurers may try to assign partial fault to reduce the amount they have to pay.
An experienced attorney can help investigate the accident, preserve evidence, and challenge unfair attempts to shift blame.
Why Early Legal Representation Matters
The strongest motorcycle accident cases are built early.
Important evidence can disappear quickly.
Witness memories fade.
Surveillance footage may be erased.
Vehicle damage is repaired.
Accident scenes change.
The sooner an attorney begins investigating, the better the opportunity to preserve critical evidence.
Attorney Michael M. Clawson personally works with clients throughout Pueblo and Southern Colorado to investigate motorcycle accidents, gather medical evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, when necessary, present cases in court.
Every case is different, but every injured rider deserves experienced legal representation and personal attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of motorcycle accidents in Pueblo?
One of the most common causes is a driver turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Distracted driving, unsafe lane changes, and drivers failing to yield are also leading causes of serious crashes.
Should I hire an attorney after a motorcycle accident?
If you suffered significant injuries, required medical treatment, lost income, or are dealing with an insurance company, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and protect your claim.
What if the other driver says they never saw me?
Unfortunately, this is one of the most common statements made after motorcycle crashes. Drivers have a duty to maintain a proper lookout and operate their vehicles safely. Failing to see a motorcyclist does not automatically excuse negligent driving.
How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?
Every case is unique.
The value depends on many factors, including medical expenses, lost income, future treatment, permanent injuries, pain and suffering, and the available insurance coverage.
A thorough investigation is necessary before accurately evaluating any claim.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Colorado?
Colorado law establishes deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Waiting too long can jeopardize your right to recover compensation, so it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as practical after an accident.
What if I wasn't wearing a helmet?
Colorado law does not require most adult riders to wear helmets. Even if you were not wearing one, you may still have the right to pursue compensation depending on the facts of your case.
Protecting the Rights of Injured Riders in Pueblo
A motorcycle accident can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. While you focus on healing, it is important to understand your legal options and protect your rights.
For more than 30 years, Michael M. Clawson has represented individuals and families throughout Southern Colorado. He understands the challenges injured riders face and is committed to providing personal attention, honest advice, and experienced legal representation every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Pueblo, don't wait to learn about your legal rights. The sooner you act, the sooner important evidence can be preserved and your case can begin moving forward.
Michael M. Clawson
Clawson & Clawson, LLP
Serving Pueblo, Colorado Springs, and clients throughout Southern Colorado
Email: michaelc@clawsonlaw.net