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Many people understand that traffic accidents are far too common in Colorado, but the true extent of the problem can be difficult to fathom. According to statistics from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), a single recent year saw over 102,000 motor vehicle collisions statewide. Of these accidents, nearly 670 were fatal, and about 26,800 resulted in injuries.
These numbers represent more than just statistics. Each life lost and every severe injury left victims in pain, facing financial upheaval, and feeling anxious about the future. Understanding the causes of these collisions can help you find ways to stay safe on the roads and chart a path toward justice when a car crash turns your life upside down. With that in mind, here are 10 common causes of Colorado car accidents.
1. Drunk Driving
While most people understand that drunk driving is both ethically and legally wrong, far too many motorists still choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. The effects of alcohol on a driver’s system can cause them to become overly confident while simultaneously impairing their coordination, reaction time, and judgment. This combination of factors can increase the likelihood of an accident and enhance the severity of collisions.
2. Distracted Driving
Operating a motor vehicle requires the full attention of the person behind the wheel. Anytime a driver’s attention leaves the road, they lose the capacity to respond to emerging hazards. This lack of attention can result from distractions like:
- Texting
- Eating and drinking
- Pets
- Grooming and applying makeup
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Rubbernecking
Distracted driving is a factor in about 8 percent of fatal crashes and 12 percent of injury crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
3. Reckless Driving
Reckless driving encompasses a range of dangerous behaviors that put everyone on the road at risk. These actions often stem from a disregard for safety and the well-being of others. Common examples of reckless driving include:
- Excessive speeding
- Aggressive lane changes
- Tailgating
- Racing other vehicles
- Weaving through traffic
Reckless drivers often overestimate their driving skills or simply fail to consider how their behavior affects others. This mindset can lead to devastating collisions, causing severe injuries or fatalities.
Colorado law takes a firm stance against reckless driving, as offenders may face steep fines, license suspension, and even jail time. When reckless driving results in accidents, victims may also have the right to seek punitive damages in addition to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses resulting from the collision. Rather than compensate victims for specific harms they’ve suffered, punitive damages punish at-fault drivers for their reckless behavior and aim to deter others from making similarly dangerous choices behind the wheel.
4. Speeding
The purpose of speed limits is clear: to save lives and reduce the number and severity of roadway injuries. When a motorist ignores posted speed limits, they put other road users’ lives at risk. In many cases, speeding reduces a driver’s ability to notice changing road conditions early enough to brake or take evasive action in time.
Speed is also especially dangerous when combined with poor road or weather conditions. Drivers should slow down to account for these hazards, and their failure to do so could make them liable for resulting collisions.
5. Drowsy Driving
Remaining alert behind the wheel is crucial to safe driving. In fact, studies suggest that drivers who operate their vehicles with little to no sleep, poor-quality sleep, or insufficient breaks from driving may suffer similar impairments to those who drive under the influence of alcohol.
6. Driver Inexperience
New drivers often lack the skills and judgment to safely handle complex traffic situations. Inexperienced drivers may struggle with:
- Proper lane changes
- Merging onto highways
- Judging distances accurately
- Anticipating other drivers’ actions
These challenges can lead to accidents, particularly when novice drivers encounter unexpected road conditions or aggressive motorists. While experience comes with time, everyone must drive carefully and follow traffic laws to minimize risks.
7. Bad Weather
Although nobody can control the weather, all drivers are responsible for how they operate their vehicles given the conditions. Downpours, snowstorms, and fog can affect motorists’ visibility and ability to control their vehicles. It is a motorist’s duty to drive with caution during bad weather. If they don’t, they can be held liable for resulting crashes.
8. Poor Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads pose significant hazards for even the most careful drivers. Common issues include:
- Potholes
- Uneven surfaces
- Inadequate signage
- Malfunctioning traffic signals
- Lack of proper lighting
Government entities or contractors responsible for road maintenance may bear liability when these conditions contribute to collisions. Drivers should remain vigilant and report dangerous road conditions to local authorities to help prevent accidents.
9. Defective Car Parts
Sometimes, accidents occur due to faulty vehicle components rather than driver error. Defective parts can include:
- Faulty brakes
- Malfunctioning steering systems
- Tire blowouts
- Airbag failures
When defective parts cause collisions, manufacturers or distributors may be held responsible for resulting injuries and property damage. Regular vehicle maintenance and prompt attention to recall notices can help reduce the risk of part-related accidents.
10. Failure to Obey Traffic Laws
Traffic laws exist to keep all road users safe. When drivers disregard these rules, they put themselves and others at risk. Frequent violations include:
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Making illegal turns
- Following too closely
Each of these infractions can lead to severe accidents. Drivers violating traffic laws may face criminal penalties and civil liability for any resulting injuries or property damage.
Contact a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer
Since 1977, the Colorado car accident attorneys at The Wilhite Law Firm have helped people like you recover fair compensation for injuries that were someone else’s fault. We have handled cases involving these common factors and understand how to thoroughly investigate to determine everyone who might be at fault for your injuries. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us fight for your right to compensation.
