Sand and gravel often accumulate in the bends of roads from the snow plows going through in the winter. Just because it is a gorgeous day in the middle of February does not mean that road conditions are ideal for motorcycling. Sand and gravel can present a major risk for a motorcycle crash, in Denver and all of Colorado. If you are involved in an accident, be sure to reach out to a motorcycle attorney who can lead you through the legal process and protect your rights.

Motorcycle riders have a responsibility to be prepared for road changes. Thirty-seven percent of motorcycle crashes occur from running off the road when there is a curve. Riders should constantly be on the lookout for debris in the road, such as gravel or sand, and to use the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's SEE strategy: "Search, Evaluate and Execute". Motorcycle attorneys often recommend that clients take a MSF or similar course in motorcycle safety, as the knowledge gained can avert future crashes.

When a motorcycle hits a patch of sand, there is less contact between the tire tread and the road. This can cause the motorcycle to slip and slide and may result in it going down. Injuries can be severe for both a driver and passengers. Most skids seem to occur when the motorcycle is making a turn, and this makes sense since even less tread is in contact with the road surface during a turn. Once in a skid, there are ways to ameliorate the situation. In a higher speed, "sand-in-the-corner" skid, steering slightly into the direction of the skid may carry you safely through the rough patch, reestablishing tire contact with the pavement, righting the bike and continuing your trip.

Hopefully, the motorcycle will right itself and the skid will last only a few seconds, but there is still a strong chance that there will be a motorcycle crash. In Denver, and surrounding areas, awareness of road conditions, including sand hazards, is crucial in decreasing the chance of an accident.

Motorcyclists have a responsibility to operate in a safe and cautious manner. This includes being on the lookout for hazards such as sand on the road. Sand accumulation can be a natural occurrence or from snow plows having come through the roads on previous storms. This can result in a motorcycle crash in Denver and beyond, as there are many beautiful weather days interspersed with late winter stormy days. However, sand may be present in abundance due to another reason, such as a road spill and the material was not properly cleaned up. So, if you are involved in a motorcycle crash in Denver or its suburbs, speak to a motorcycle attorney familiar with road hazards, the mechanics of motorcycle riding and how that affects your legal rights.