Colorado, where riding is a passion, boasts some of the most breathtaking and historic motorcycle riding routes. The winding paths with scene views make it a motorcyclist’s paradise. As thrilling as it is, riding a motorcycle comes with greater risks than driving a car. In 2024, Colorado witnessed 135 fatal crashes until July, and 15.5% (21) of those involved a motorcycle.
Motorcycle accidents can have life-altering consequences, not only physically but also financially. If you were in a motorcycle accident in Colorado, you might end up with hefty medical bills, lost wages, and additional expenses that can drain your life’s savings.
However, understanding the financial repercussions of a motorcycle accident can help you prepare for what lies ahead. At Manning Law, we can help you recognize your rights and potential challenges. In this quick post, we will walk you through the costs associated with motorcycle accidents in Colorado.
Let’s dive in.
The Cost of a Motorcycle Accident in Colorado
Motorcycle accidents often come with steep financial burdens that go beyond immediate medical care. Depending on your injuries, you might be looking at mounting medical bills, temporary or permanent disability, and long-term income loss.
Here’s a quick breakdown of these costs:
1. Medical Bills
One of the most significant costs following a motorcycle accident is the medical treatment needed for your injuries. Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection like seat belts and airbags.
These can include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Fractures and broken bones
- Road rash and abrasions
- Internal injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
Severe injuries often require long-term treatment, in some cases, lifelong home care. Even with basic health insurance, emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and follow-ups can end up costing thousands. Some insurance plans may not cover lifelong therapy or care or may offer limited remuneration.
What to Expect:
- Emergency room care, surgery, and hospitalization could be the first wave of expenses.
- Long-term medical care, including physical therapy, medication, and, in some cases, home healthcare, may add to the burden.
- Mental health counseling, if necessary, due to the trauma of the accident, is another cost to consider.
2. Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Potential
Another significant financial cost of a motorcycle accident is the loss of income. This typically happens while you are recovering from your injuries. However, if you are unable to return to work for weeks or even months, it can put financial strain on your family.
Unfortunately, for people involved in serious motorcycle accidents, this financial stress doesn’t end with lost wages alone. Some injuries, particularly those to the spine, brain, or limbs, may leave you with long-term or permanent disabilities that affect your ability to do your job or even work at all. It might lead to lifelong financial challenges.
What to Expect:
- Short-term absences due to hospitalization and recovery can quickly add up.
- Long-term or permanent disabilities may affect your ability to work or require a career change, reducing your income.
- You may also face additional costs related to addressing your mobility issues, such as an electric wheelchair, assistive devices, and modifications to your home or car.
3. Property Damage Costs
In addition to the costs associated with medical treatment and lost income, motorcycle accidents often result in significant property damage. Your bike, gear, and other personal property could get damaged in the crash. If the damage is extensive, your motorcycle could be totaled.
What to Expect:
- If your ride is totaled, replacing it could cost you thousands.
- You may also need to replace your gear, such as helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots.
- Insurance may cover some of these costs, but not all.
- If the other driver was at fault, their liability insurance should cover this damage.
4. Pain and Suffering
While physical and financial costs are apparent, the emotional toll of a motorcycle accident often gets ignored. Many people involved in motorcycle accidents suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These issues might make it difficult for you to return to your daily life.
In Colorado, you can seek compensation for pain and suffering. Recently, Colorado increased the cap on damages for noneconomic loss or injury from $250,000 to $1.5 million for claims filed on or after January 1, 2025.
Although pain and suffering are included in motorcycle accident claims, they can be difficult to quantify. Hiring a seasoned personal injury lawyer can help you understand how much compensation you can claim for your loss.
What to Expect:
- Emotional and psychological recovery may take months or even years after a motorcycle accident.
- Therapy, counseling, and medication may be needed to treat mental health conditions resulting from the crash.
5. Legal Fees and Costs of Litigation
In Colorado, you can file a personal injury claim with the help of a lawyer. In other words, you have to think about their fees and the costs associated with the legal process. Most lawyers offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis (meaning they only get paid if you win your case).
However, having a skilled motorcycle accident attorney on your side can significantly increase your chances of a fair settlement or award. They also ensure that all costs are accounted for when seeking compensation.
What to Expect:
- Legal fees and other costs may be deducted from any compensation you receive, but a good attorney will help you maximize your recovery.
- The peace of mind that comes from having a professional on your side can be worth the investment, especially when dealing with complex insurance claims.
6. Other Hidden Costs of Motorcycle Accidents
There are other financial consequences of a motorcycle accident that may not be immediately obvious. Some of these include:
- Increased insurance premiums: Your rates may go up if you are found to be at fault or if you have an accident on your record.
- Home and vehicle modifications: If you suffer permanent injuries, you may need to modify your home or car to accommodate your new physical limitations, adding significant costs to your recovery.
- Childcare or domestic assistance: If you’re unable to take care of daily tasks, you may need to hire help, which can add to the financial burden.
How A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You
Recovering compensation for the costs associated with a motorcycle accident requires skilled legal representation. Working with a lawyer ensures that you don’t have to bear the financial burden of a motorcycle accident alone. They will handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for your right to a fair settlement or court award.
Conclusion
In Colorado, the cost of a motorcycle accident is often overwhelming. It includes paying for medical treatment, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress. Hiring a skilled personal injury lawyer can help you recover the best possible compensation. They will take care of the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on your recovery.
Were you in a motorcycle accident in Colorado? Manning Law can help you understand and protect your rights. Call us for a free consultation today!
