Motorcycle accidents in Colorado are becoming more frequent and more deadly. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle crash, it’s critical to understand your rights. At Mandelaris Law, we specialize in helping crash victims seek full and fair compensation. This blog post explores recent incidents, legal implications, and how a Colorado motorcycle accident lawyer can assist you after a crash.
Recent Motorcycle Accidents in Colorado
Thornton Double Fatality – Family Devastated
On April 27, 2025, a devastating motorcycle crash occurred in Thornton, CO. A father and his 9-year-old daughter died after their motorcycle collided with an SUV. According to news reports, the SUV pulled out into the intersection, violating the motorcycle’s right of way. The community mourns their loss as calls for better motorcycle awareness grow. Read more.
May 1 Crash – Motorcyclist Identified
Ethan Hale, a 30-year-old man, died after a May 1, 2025, crash at Bijou Street and I-25 in Colorado Springs. The vehicle that struck him was attempting a left turn across his lane. Both Hale and his passenger were ejected. Sadly, Hale later died from his injuries. Read more.
CDOT: Fatalities Reach Record Highs
According to CDOT, Colorado saw a record number of motorcycle-related deaths in 2024 and early 2025. The agency urges helmet use and defensive riding, and calls on drivers to “look twice” before turning or changing lanes. Read more.
Grand Junction Crash Sends Rider to Hospital
On May 9, 2025, a car versus motorcycle crash in Grand Junction sent one rider to the hospital. The vehicle driver failed to yield at an intersection. Emergency services responded quickly, but this event adds to the alarming spike in collisions involving motorcycles. Read more.
Statewide Crisis: Motorcycle Crash Fatalities at Record Levels
As of May 2025, motorcycle deaths are at their highest level in state history. This public safety issue is being tracked closely by CDOT, law enforcement, and local governments. Experts attribute the increase to speeding, left-turn violations, distracted driving, and poor visibility. Read more.
Legal Rights After a Motorcycle Crash
Victims of motorcycle accidents in Colorado may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency and long-term medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of quality of life
Colorado uses a modified comparative negligence rule (C.R.S. § 13-21-111), which means you can recover damages as long as you’re less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your share of liability.
How a Colorado Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
An experienced Colorado motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate your crash, collect evidence, handle all insurance negotiations, and file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit if necessary. At Mandelaris Law, we’ve helped riders and their families recover six- and seven-figure settlements in complex accident cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the helmet laws in Colorado?
In Colorado, motorcycle riders and passengers under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet. Riders 18 and older are not required to wear a helmet, but must wear eye protection unless the motorcycle has a windscreen. Not wearing a helmet may affect your injury claim if head or neck injuries are involved.
In Colorado, motorcycle riders and passengers who are under the age of 18 are legally required to wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times. Riders who are 18 years of age or older are not required to wear a helmet under state law. However, all motorcyclists—regardless of age—must wear eye protection, such as goggles or a face shield, unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
While adults are not legally obligated to wear helmets, choosing not to wear one may impact a personal injury claim if a rider suffers a head or neck injury. In such cases, insurance companies may argue that the lack of a helmet contributed to the severity of injuries, potentially reducing compensation under Colorado’s comparative negligence rules.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle injury claim?
Generally, you have 2-3 years to file a personal injury claim in Colorado. If the accident involved a government vehicle, you must file notice within 182 days under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act (C.R.S. § 24-10-109).
Can I sue for emotional distress?
Yes. Colorado allows non-economic damages for pain, suffering, and emotional trauma. These are capped under C.R.S. § 13-21-102.5 but can exceed $613,760 in extreme cases.
Is lane splitting legal in Colorado?
No. Lane splitting is illegal. However, lane filtering is legal under specific conditions (SB 24-079). Riders may pass between stopped vehicles at under 15 mph. This trial law expires in 2027 unless renewed.
In Colorado, lane splitting—the practice of a motorcyclist riding between lanes of moving traffic—is illegal under state law. However, a related maneuver called lane filtering was legalized under specific conditions with the passage of Senate Bill 24-079, which took effect on August 7, 2024. Lane filtering allows motorcyclists to pass between completely stopped vehicles under certain safety restrictions. According to the law, a motorcyclist may filter between lanes only when traffic is at a full stop, the rider does not exceed 15 mph, and the lane is wide enough to accommodate safe passage. Riders must pass on the left—never on the right shoulder or in the path of oncoming traffic—and must ensure that the maneuver is safe and prudent given the road and traffic conditions.
Violating the provisions of the law can result in a $100 fine, and unsafe filtering could potentially lead to additional charges if it causes a crash. Importantly, this legislation includes a sunset clause: it is currently set to expire on September 1, 2027, unless extended or made permanent. During this trial period, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will collect and evaluate data on whether lane filtering reduces motorcycle rear-end collisions or contributes to new risks. While the law provides more flexibility for riders, it also places the burden on motorcyclists to operate safely and comply strictly with the rules.
Lane splitting—passing between moving traffic—is still prohibited and treated as a traffic violation. Colorado’s approach aims to balance increased rider safety during high-congestion scenarios with strict limitations to prevent reckless behavior. For the full legal text and ongoing updates, riders can consult CDOT’s motorcycle safety portal or the official text of SB 24-079.
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?
- Call 911 and report the crash
- Get medical attention
- Photograph the scene and injuries
- Get witness information
- Do not admit fault or give statements
- Contact a Colorado motorcycle accident lawyer
How are motorcycle accidents investigated?
Experts use skid marks, vehicle damage, traffic signals, camera footage, and witness statements. A lawyer can help reconstruct the event and build your claim.
Can family members file a lawsuit after a fatal crash?
Yes. Spouses, children, and parents can file a wrongful death claim under C.R.S. § 13-21-201. Compensation may include loss of income, companionship, and funeral costs.
How much compensation can I expect?
It depends. Minor cases might settle for $25,000–$75,000. Severe injury or death can exceed $500,000 or more, depending on liability, losses, and insurance limits.
Do I need uninsured motorist (UM) coverage?
Yes. UM/UIM coverage protects you if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. In Colorado, this coverage is offered unless waived in writing.
What if I was partially at fault?
Under Colorado’s comparative fault law, you can still recover compensation if you were less than 50% responsible. Your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Contact a Colorado Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you’re searching for a reliable Colorado motorcycle accident lawyer, Mandelaris Law is ready to help. We understand the physical, financial, and emotional toll of these crashes and are committed to helping you recover compensation for your losses.
Steven T. Mandelaris, Esq.
MANDELARIS LAW, L.L.C.
501 S. Cherry St., Suite 1100
Denver, CO 80246
Tel: (303) 357-9757
Website: www.mandelarislaw.com
Click here to schedule your free consultation.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal representation, please contact Mandelaris Law directly.