Denver Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents on Denver’s challenging roads – from the mountain curves of Lookout Mountain to high-traffic corridors like I-25 and I-70 – often result in severe injuries due to the rider’s exposed position and lack of protective barriers. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash anywhere in the Front Range, hiring a dedicated Denver motorcycle accident lawyer is essential to protect your rights under Colorado’s 2025 motorcycle laws.

Our Denver attorneys understand the unique challenges local motorcyclists face, from sudden weather changes and high-altitude riding to navigating downtown Denver’s construction zones. We counter anti-rider bias in Colorado courts while handling complex insurance claims under state law. Whether your accident occurred during a weekend ride through Red Rocks, commuting through the Tech Center, or enjoying the scenic byways around Denver, our experienced legal team will fight for maximum compensation under Colorado’s updated damage caps.

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Motorcycle accidents on Denver’s highways and mountain roads can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protection afforded to riders in our challenging high-altitude environment. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle crash anywhere in the Denver metro area, from Boulder to Parker, you need an experienced Denver motorcycle accident lawyer who understands Colorado’s 2025 motorcycle laws and local riding conditions. At McQuaid Injury Law, we understand the unique challenges Denver motorcyclists face, from sudden weather changes on I-70 to navigating downtown’s construction zones, and we’re committed to advocating for riders across the Front Range.

Legal representation is crucial in Denver motorcycle cases due to the complexities of Colorado law and the bias local riders often face in our courts. Insurance companies operating in the Mountain region may try to unfairly blame motorcyclists, especially in accidents involving Denver’s notorious weather shifts or high-altitude riding conditions. Our experienced Denver motorcycle accident attorneys will hear your story – whether your crash occurred during a morning commute through the Tech Center, a weekend ride to Mount Evans, or a cruise down Colfax Avenue. We’ll fight aggressively through the Colorado legal system to secure maximum compensation for your injuries and losses under state law, including coverage for treatment at Denver’s specialized trauma centers.

Over 2,000 motorcycle injuries occur annually in Colorado

motorcycle accident lawyer
Motorcyclists are about 29 times more likely than car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents We Handle

Our firm has extensive experience handling a wide range of motorcycle accident cases in Denver, CO, including:

Common Denver Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Due to the exposed nature of motorcycles, riders often suffer severe injuries in accidents.

Some common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) 
  • Internal organ damage
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Amputations
  • Road rash and severe skin abrasions
  • Burn injuries
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Facial and dental injuries
Why Choose Our Firm

Don’t Be Afraid, Call McQuaid

Our experienced Denver team combines aggressive litigation tactics with compassionate client care to maximize your compensation while supporting you through every step of your recovery journey.

  • 20 years of experience in motorcycle accident litigation
  • Dedicated team of motorcycle accident professionals and accident reconstructionISTS
  • proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts
  •  In-depth knowledge of motorcycle laws and regulations
  • Personalized attention to every case
  • No fee unless we win your case
  • 24/7 availability for client communication
Lawyer McQuaid with personal injury victim in denver
Handing Check to personal Injury victim in phoenix
Personal Injury attorney Brendan McQuaid
Our Process

From Injury to Justice: 5 Simple Steps

Getting fair compensation after a Denver motorcycle accident is straightforward. Start with a free consultation at our downtown Denver office—we’re available 24/7 to serve riders across the Front Range. Our team will investigate your case anywhere in the metro area, from accidents on Lookout Mountain to crashes on I-25, and handle all Colorado court paperwork while you focus on recovery at Denver’s top medical facilities. We’ll fight aggressively through the Colorado legal system to win your case, considering unique factors like mountain riding conditions and high-altitude impacts. You pay nothing unless we secure your settlement under Colorado’s 2025 motorcycle laws. Your path to justice in Denver starts with one call to our 17th Street office, just steps from the Denver courthouse.

Dial or Text (303) 551-9495 in Colorado or (602) 892-4111 in Arizona to speak with one of our experienced personal injury professionals. We’re here to listen to your story and answer your questions. You can also fill out the contact form to request a free consultation. Provide some basic details about your case, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Attorney Brendan McQuaid will work on your case, supported by a team of professionals who will work tirelessly to protect your rights. At McQuaid Injury law, you will always speak with an attorney.

Our experienced team will handle the process of filing a personal injury claim with all responsible insurance companies. We’ll investigate your case thoroughly and collect evidence and documentation to support your claim. We’ll negotiate with the insurance company to secure the maximum compensation possible, always striving to reach a fair settlement.

When an insurance settlement offer isn’t fair or your case requires aggressive legal action, we’ll take your fight to court. Our legal team prepares a compelling case, ensuring all the necessary documentation and witnesses are in place. Our experienced trial team will vigorously represent you in court, fighting for your rights and the compensation you deserve.

Our commitment to you is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We’ll work tirelessly to:

Maximize Compensation: We’ll strive to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Brendan McQuaid is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, as he has achieved multi-million dollar results for his clients.

Peace of Mind: While we handle the legal complexities, you can focus on your recovery and well-being, knowing your case is in capable hands.

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Victories Echoed: What Our Clients Say

Don’t just take our word for it—hear from those we’ve helped. Our clients’ stories of triumph over adversity speak volumes about our dedication and expertise. From life-changing settlements to compassionate support throughout the legal process, these testimonials reflect our unwavering commitment to justice. Discover why so many trust us with their most challenging moments.

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Based on 157 Reviews
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Jose Gomez
March 10, 2025
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Ismael Rivera
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January 9, 2025
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Anita Edwards
January 9, 2025
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Matt Edgar
January 3, 2025
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George Ressinger
December 3, 2024
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Joe Totten
November 9, 2024
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Michael Carlaw
October 22, 2024

Your Denver Motorcycle Accident Questions Answered

Navigate the road to recovery with confidence as we address the most pressing questions our clients ask after experiencing a motorcycle accident in Denver.

Motorcycle accident cases differ significantly from car accident cases in several key aspects:

Injury Severity and Protection

Motorcycle accidents typically result in more severe injuries compared to car accidents. This is primarily due to:

  • Lack of protective features like airbags, seatbelts, and a metal frame
  • Direct exposure to the road and other vehicles
  • Higher likelihood of being thrown from the vehicle

Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car passengers, and 5 times more likely to be injured.

Legal and Insurance Challenges

Motorcycle accident cases often face unique legal hurdles:

  • Bias against motorcyclists from insurance companies and jurors
  • Need for additional evidence to overcome prejudices, such as accident reconstruction specialists
  • Stricter scrutiny of rider behavior and safety gear usage

Fault and Negligence

Proving fault in motorcycle accidents can be more challenging:

  • Motorcyclists must demonstrate full compliance with state safety laws
  • Higher burden of proof to show lack of negligence
  • Difficulty in accurately assessing fault due to different vehicle dynamics

Visibility and Stability Factors

Motorcycle accidents often involve unique circumstances:

  • Reduced visibility to other drivers
  • Limited stability compared to four-wheeled vehicles
  • Greater susceptibility to road hazards and weather conditions

Compensation and Long-term Consequences

The financial and health impacts of motorcycle accidents tend to be more severe:

  • Higher medical bills due to more serious injuries
  • Longer recovery times and potential for long-term disabilities
  • Greater likelihood of total vehicle loss in accidents

If you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of a motorcycle accident in Denver, you can still potentially receive compensation for your injuries. However, there are some important factors to consider:

  1. Colorado law does not require helmets for motorcyclists over 18 years old. This means that if you’re an adult, not wearing a helmet doesn’t automatically disqualify you from compensation.
  2. The “helmet defense” is generally not available to insurance companies or defendants in Colorado for adult riders. This is because you were within your legal rights to not wear one if you’re over 18.
  3. However, not wearing a helmet could potentially impact your compensation in certain ways:
  • Insurance companies might argue that not wearing a helmet constitutes negligence, which could potentially reduce your compensation.
  • In a personal injury lawsuit, the other party might try to use your lack of helmet as evidence of contributory negligence.
  1. Colorado uses modified comparative fault to allocate losses. If it’s determined that your lack of helmet contributed to your injuries, your compensation could be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
  2. It’s important to note that helmet use (or lack thereof) doesn’t cause accidents. You may still be entitled to full compensation for losses caused by another party’s negligence.

To protect your rights and maximize your potential compensation, it’s strongly recommended to consult with a Denver motorcycle accident attorney. They can help navigate the complexities of your case and argue against any attempts to reduce your compensation based on helmet use.

Based on the current law in Colorado, you likely cannot recover damages if you were lane-splitting when the accident occurred. Here’s why:

  1. Lane splitting is explicitly prohibited in Colorado. The law that went into effect on August 7, 2024, only legalized lane filtering, which is different from lane splitting.
  2. Lane filtering is only legal under specific conditions:
  • Traffic in your lane and adjacent lanes must be completely stopped
  • You must be traveling 15 mph or less
  • You must pass on the left and not enter oncoming traffic lanes
  • The lane must be wide enough for safe passage
  • You must pass safely and maintain control of the motorcycle

If you were lane-splitting (moving between lanes of moving traffic) rather than lane filtering, you were likely violating traffic laws at the time of the accident. This could significantly impact your ability to recover damages, as you may be considered at fault or contributorily negligent.

However, it’s important to note that each case is unique. Even if you were lane-splitting, there might be other factors that could affect your claim. For example, if the other driver was grossly negligent or if there were extenuating circumstances, you might still have a case.

To fully understand your legal options and potential for recovering damages, it’s strongly recommended that you consult with a motorcycle accident attorney who is familiar with Colorado’s new lane filtering laws and can evaluate the specific details of your case.

Motorcycle accident victims can potentially receive several types of compensation:

Medical Expenses: This covers current and future costs related to your injuries, including:

  • Hospital stays
  • Surgeries and procedures
  • Rehabilitation and therapy
  • Emergency medical treatment
  • Prescription medications
  • Medical equipment

Lost Wages and Income:

  • Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries
  • Potential coverage for diminished earning capacity if injuries affect future work ability
  • In some cases, up to 85% of gross pay for up to three years

Property Damage:

  • Costs to repair or replace your motorcycle
  • Compensation for damaged gear (helmet, riding equipment)

Pain and Suffering:

  • Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress
  • May include anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life

Other Economic Damages:

  • Travel expenses for medical appointments
  • Modifications to home or vehicle for accessibility

Non-Economic Damages:

  • Mental anguish
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of consortium (impact on personal relationships)

In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault party’s actions were particularly egregious, such as in DUI cases.

The total compensation depends on various factors, including injury severity, available insurance coverage, and the specific circumstances of the accident. It’s advisable to consult with a motorcycle accident attorney to ensure you pursue all applicable forms of compensation for your case.

In Denver, Colorado, you have three years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a lawsuit. This three-year statute of limitations applies specifically to motorcycle accidents and other motor vehicle-related cases.

It’s crucial to note that this deadline is strictly enforced. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this three-year period, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation through the court system.

There are some important exceptions to be aware of:

  1. Wrongful death: If the motorcycle accident resulted in a fatality, the statute of limitations is reduced to two years from the date of death.
  2. Discovery rule: In rare cases where injuries are not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may begin from the date the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.
  3. Minors: If the injured party was under 18 at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations is tolled until their 18th birthday, giving them until age 21 to file a claim.
  4. Government entities: If your claim involves a government entity, the deadline is significantly shorter at 182 days.

While you have three years to file, it’s generally advisable to begin the legal process as soon as possible. Early action helps preserve evidence, ensures witness memories are fresh, and provides ample time to build a strong case.

Most motorcycle accident lawyers in Colorado work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

  1. There are no upfront costs to hire the lawyer.
  2. The lawyer only gets paid if they win your case or secure a settlement.
  3. The typical contingency fee ranges from 35% to 42% of the total recovery amount.

Some key points about costs:

  • The initial consultation is usually free.
  • If the case is unsuccessful, you generally don’t owe the lawyer anything.
  • Specific percentages may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience.

While some attorneys may offer hourly rates ($200-$500 per hour) or flat fees for certain services, contingency fees are the most common arrangement for motorcycle accident cases in Colorado. This fee structure allows injured riders to access legal representation without worrying about upfront costs, as the lawyer’s payment is tied to the success of the case.

It’s important to discuss fee structures and any potential additional costs (like court filing fees or expert witness fees) during your initial consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer.

If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Denver, CO in 2025, take these immediate steps:

  1. Check for injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, stay still and wait for medical help.
  2. Ensure safety: If possible, move to a safe area away from traffic to prevent further accidents or injuries.
  3. Call 911: Contact the police immediately, regardless of the accident’s severity. This is required by Colorado law for accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage.
  4. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, get examined by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  5. Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including road conditions, vehicles involved, and any visible injuries.
  6. Exchange information: Collect names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers from all parties involved.
  7. Gather witness information: If there are any witnesses, get their contact information.
  8. Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurer about the accident as soon as possible, but be cautious about making recorded statements.
  9. Preserve evidence: Keep your damaged gear and don’t repair your motorcycle until after the insurance assessment.
  10. Consider legal counsel: Contact a motorcycle accident attorney to protect your rights and help navigate the claims process.

Remember, your health and safety should be your top priority. Don’t hesitate to seek medical care, even for seemingly minor injuries, as this documentation can be crucial for any future claims.

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