7 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Colorado
(Article originally published June 21, 2021. Updated on October 10, 2025)
By Brian Pushchak, Denver Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycles offer a thrilling sense of freedom that few other vehicles can match — but that freedom comes with significant risk. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 27 times more likely than car occupants to die in a crash and four times more likely to be injured, per vehicle mile traveled.
At Pushchak Law Firm, we’re passionate about helping motorcycle accident victims recover fair compensation — and equally committed to helping riders prevent accidents before they happen. Below, Denver motorcycle accident attorney Brian Pushchak explains the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Colorado and how to protect yourself on the road.
1. Drivers Turning into the Path of a Motorcycle
One of the most frequent and deadly types of motorcycle crashes occurs when a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. This often happens at intersections when the driver misjudges the bike’s speed or simply doesn’t see it at all.
Because motorcycles are smaller and narrower than other vehicles, they can easily disappear in a car’s blind spot or be overlooked due to visual “tunneling” — a driver’s tendency to focus on larger vehicles.
How to reduce risk: Approach intersections cautiously, watch for cars signaling a left turn, and be prepared to brake or swerve safely if a vehicle cuts across your lane.
2. Right-of-Way Violations
Roughly one-third of all motorcycle accidents happen at intersections, often due to drivers failing to yield the right of way. Whether it’s an inattentive driver pulling out from a side street or a vehicle merging onto the highway without checking mirrors, motorcyclists are often left with no time to react.
How to reduce risk: Anticipate driver errors. Slow down at intersections, and make eye contact with other drivers before proceeding whenever possible.
3. Illegal or Unsafe Lane Changes
A driver who changes lanes without checking blind spots poses an immediate threat to motorcyclists. Because motorcycles take up less space, drivers may assume a lane is clear when it isn’t — leading to sideswipe collisions or forcing riders off the road.
How to reduce risk: Avoid lingering in other vehicles’ blind spots. Flash your headlights briefly or honk if a driver begins merging into your lane.
4. Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Excessive speed reduces reaction time and magnifies impact severity. Whether it’s a speeding motorist or an overconfident rider, high-speed crashes are far more likely to result in catastrophic injuries. Even traveling 10 mph over the limit can dramatically increase the risk of losing control — especially on winding mountain roads or in poor weather.
How to reduce risk: Maintain a safe speed, particularly through curves, intersections, and traffic-heavy areas. Assume other drivers may underestimate your pace and leave extra stopping distance.
5. Unsafe or Hazardous Road Conditions
Motorcycles are especially vulnerable to gravel, potholes, sand, wet leaves, and ice. A hazard that might barely jostle a car can cause a motorcyclist to lose balance entirely. In Colorado, this risk is amplified by sudden weather changes, mountain terrain, and debris from snowmelt runoff.
How to reduce risk: Scan the road ahead constantly and adjust speed before reaching hazards. Avoid abrupt braking or swerving when traction is uncertain.
6. Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drug impairment contribute to a significant number of fatal motorcycle crashes — and not always on the rider’s part. Drunk or high drivers have slower reaction times, impaired depth perception, and poor awareness of smaller vehicles like motorcycles.
Even for riders, a single drink or medication can dull reflexes and compromise judgment, turning a routine ride into a life-threatening event.
How to reduce risk: Never ride under the influence. If you suspect another driver is impaired, slow down, increase your distance, and contact law enforcement if necessary.
7. Inexperienced or Untrained Riders
Experience and training matter. Many riders killed in accidents never completed a certified motorcycle safety course — and nearly one-third lacked a valid motorcycle license. Without proper training, riders may not know how to respond to hazards, perform evasive maneuvers, or control a skid.
How to reduce risk: Take a Colorado Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) course before hitting the road. Practice emergency braking and cornering in a safe environment before riding in traffic or poor conditions.
Safety Is a Shared Responsibility
While motorcycle riders must take every precaution, many serious crashes occur because car and truck drivers fail to notice or respect motorcycles. Common driver mistakes — distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden lane changes — can have devastating consequences for riders.
Ultimately, it’s every driver’s responsibility to stay alert, check mirrors, and give motorcyclists the space and respect they deserve on the road.
Pushchak Law Advocates for Colorado Motorcycle Riders
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident — whether caused by a careless driver, unsafe road, or equipment failure — you deserve justice. Denver motorcycle accident attorney Brian Pushchak has extensive experience representing injured riders and their families.
At Pushchak Law, our exclusive Informed Decisions Approach™ ensures you remain in control of your case. Brian will take the time to understand your goals, explain your options, and help you make informed choices at every stage. We’ll handle the legal details while you focus on healing.
Get the Help You Need After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle crashes can lead to devastating injuries and long-term financial stress. You don’t have to face it alone. Contact Pushchak Law today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Serving Denver and the surrounding areas of Colorado, we fight to protect riders’ rights and promote safer roads for everyone.
Visit Pushchak Law Firm to get started.
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