Driving in Denver is always full of surprises, and for many, car accidents are often the most common result. Understanding what causes them can improve your chances of avoiding them.
Car accident victims in Denver often suffer painful injuries that lead to other problems. You will likely be unable to work until you heal, causing greater financial uncertainty while medical bills continue to pile up. For some, these accidents mean the sudden loss of a loved one, and with regard to fatal accidents, the observed trends should be understood to know how to navigate the aftermath.
Denver’s Most Recent Car Accident Trends
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has noted that while car accidents are a regular occurrence, fatal results are declining. Statewide, fatalities due to not wearing a seatbelt were down 6% from 2023. Additionally, fatalities caused by impaired drivers decreased by 16% in the same year. Even motorcycle fatalities decreased by 5%.
Even though the trend seems to be moving in a positive direction, Denver drivers must remain vigilant. CDOT has determined the main causes of car accidents, and you should be aware of them to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Common Causes of Denver Car Crashes
As part of the statistics that CDOT tracks every year, it has outlined the most common causes of car accidents in Denver that result in injuries and fatalities. The agency seeks to spread awareness in hopes that it can save lives and prevent serious injury.
To date, these are the most common causes of Denver car crashes as per CDOT’s statistics:
Intoxicated Driving
Despite the prevalence and accessibility of rideshare services, people still get behind the wheel while they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A growing number of Denver residents are taking legally prescribed medications, which can have the same impairment effects as alcohol or illicit drugs.
No matter what substance someone takes, when they get behind the wheel while they are impaired , they create a risk to other drivers on the road. Driving while intoxicated often leads to mistakes in judgment or reduced reaction times. Intoxicated drivers are often the cause in fatal collisions.
Distracted Driving
Another major trend on Colorado’s roads, especially in Denver, is distracted driving. It has steadily been sweeping through the nation due smartphones and the infotainment systems that are equipped in newer models of vehicles.
However, to say that only technology is to blame for distractions is misleading. Anything that causes a visual, manual, or cognitive distraction for a driver could cause them to get into an accident. Some drivers may text while driving while others grab food from a drive-thru and eat as they navigate the roads. Parents may become distracted with children squabbling in the backseat while teens who are new to driving may become distracted by talking with their friends riding in the passenger seats.
Grabbing an object out of reach, changing the music on the stereo, applying makeup, shaving, and daydreaming are other ways that a driver can become distracted.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving behavior is yet another cause of serious accidents that tend to result in fatalities. Speeding is a common action that many drivers commit when they are running late or racing with other drivers. Tailgating and weaving in and out of traffic lanes are other concerns. There are also instances of road rage by aggressive drivers, and sadly, they often end with catastrophic crashes.
Violation of Traffic Laws
Whether they are in a hurry or just not paying attention, many drivers in Denver commit traffic violations that put all other drivers in grave danger. Road rules exist to not only keep traffic flowing smoothly but also to keep drivers safe. Running red lights and stop signs, ignoring the right-of-way, and other infractions are major reasons for Denver car accidents.
Vehicle Malfunction
Some drivers in Denver neglect to maintain their vehicles. Whether out of laziness or because they lack the funds to keep their vehicles in proper condition, there are many drivers who take their cars on the road with worn tires, bad brakes, or without making sure the air pressure in each tire is at the right level.
When a vehicle has a malfunction that could have been avoided by properly maintaining it, the driver who caused the accident due to this negligent behavior can be held accountable. However, it isn’t always the fault of the driver. If records show that the vehicle received proper maintenance, it could be the fault of the manufacturer of the vehicle or the parts manufacturer. It could also be negligent repair work by a mechanic.
Defects in the Roads
Denver roads take a lot of wear and tear from all the driving and as a result of the cold, snowy weather. Drivers need to be cautious when the weather is inclement, but even the most prudent driver will be no match for massive potholes, uneven pavement, malfunctioning traffic lights, missing signage, or improperly maintained construction areas.
The local government is responsible for keeping the roads maintained and free of hazards to keep drivers safe. If you were in an accident because of road defects, you should talk to a lawyer.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Denver Crash
If you’re looking for an auto accident attorney in Denver, it is a wise move on your part. With the state’s comparative negligence law, it is easy for insurance companies to place blame on the victim in these scenarios.
You should protect your legal rights and let a car accident lawyer advocate for you. This will allow you to follow doctors’ orders to heal from your injuries. There will be investigations and evidence needed to show the severity and extent of your injuries while negotiations will be required to get fair compensation. A lawyer is adept in these areas and will fight for what you deserve.
