There are a variety of ways to legally use the roadways in Colorado. While many drivers are sensitive to and aware of the potential for collisions with motorcyclists and bicyclists in an area, bikes are nevetheless smaller in size that cars and SUVS which often makes them more difficult to see. Every year Colorado drivers are charged with vehicular homicide following crashes with motorcycles.
Sadly, according to reports a recent incident occurred in mid-August where a motorcyclist was reportedly stopped at a red light when the driver of a sports utility vehicle failed to stop in time. The SUV allegedly struck the motorcycle, killing the man riding it.
The identity of the motorcyclist is being withheld until his family can be notified. Police apparently believe that the driver of the SUV was under the influence of drugs at the time of the collision. He has since been arrested and charged with vehicular homicide.
An unexpected death is always tragic, and the desire for justice is understandable. Unfortunately, a person is considered not guilty unless there is sufficient evidence to remove reasonable doubt. In this case, there are many issues that are unclear, including what led Colorado police to believe that drugs were involved and what evidence supports their suspicions. Those facing an accusation of vehicular homicide must make important decisions that will impact them for the rest of their life; because of their lack of familiarity with the criminal justice system, most feel unprepared to make such decisions, including whether to accept a plea deal or fight charges in court. Fortunately, there are experienced criminal defense attorneys who can help make these difficult decisions.
Source: kdvr.com, “Man pleads guilty in DUI crash that killed Colorado Springs teen,” Angela Case, Aug. 8, 2017