Common Car Accidents In Colorado And How To Prevent Them

As a driver in Colorado, it’s vital to be informed about traffic safety because anyone sharing the road with you may make a mistake that harms you. 

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), there has been a noticeable decline in traffic fatalities between 2023 and 2024. Positive trends in traffic safety have been reported, which is encouraging news. However, car accidents still happen. The number of crashes reported in the state increased from 95,401 in 2022 to 102,704 in 2023. As of October 2024, 69,964 accidents had been reported.

Here are common car accidents in Colorado and ways to prevent them:

Rear-End Accidents

Of all the crashes reported in Colorado, front-to-rear ones are the most common. Different factors contribute to rear-end crashes. These include:

• Distracted driving
• Drunk driving
• Tailgating (following too closely)
• Speeding
• Vehicle defects
• Poor weather conditions
• Poor road conditions

Rear-end car accidents mainly happen on highways with heavy traffic, at highway exits, in work zones, at intersections, around corners, and on hills.

You can avoid being involved in this type of accident by maintaining a safe following distance. It’s recommended to observe the four-second rule. This means if the car ahead of you passes a stationary object, such as a tree, road sign, or telephone pole, it should take you four seconds to pass the same object. 

You may need to increase the four-second following distance. For instance, when following a large vehicle, such as a truck. Large vehicles have a blind spot directly behind — a truck driver may not see you when you are following too closely. Besides, due to the large size, following a large vehicle too closely blocks you from seeing the road ahead.

It’s also recommended to increase the safe following distance during poor weather conditions, such as heavy rains or snow, as you will be dealing with slippery roads. 

Lastly, consider increasing the safe following distance when driving on poor roads, such as those with less traction or steep grades, like the section of I-70 that runs through the mountains.

You can also prevent a rear-end crash by observing the speed limit, staying alert when driving, and keeping your car in good condition.

If someone rear-ends you, obtain more information about your case from our car accident attorneys to know the best way forward. 

T-Bone Accidents

Front-to-side (T-bone) car accidents are the second most reported type of car accident in Colorado. A T-bone crash occurs when the front of a vehicle hits the side of another, forming a T-shape, hence its name.

It can happen when a driver runs a red light or stop sign, fails to yield the right of way at an intersection, fails to pay attention to oncoming traffic, or loses control on a highway. A T-bone accident can also occur when a driver backs out of a parking space and a distracted/aggressive one strikes them from the side.

Obeying traffic signs and signals is a crucial car accident prevention tip for T-bone accidents. When you approach a red light or stop sign, slow down or come to a complete stop. 

Always yield the right of way to the driver on the right at intersections. Note that the right of way is a privilege that’s given, not taken. Even if you are the driver on the right at an intersection and an aggressive driver on the left refuses to give you the right of way, do not take it — this can be dangerous. Only proceed when it’s safe. Understanding this and other Colorado laws on car accidents can keep you safe on the road.

You should always pay attention when driving. Be aware of cars backing out in a parking lot, other vehicles’ movements on the highway, and oncoming traffic at an intersection.

Sideswipe Accidents

Another common car accident in Colorado is side-to-side (sideswipe) car accidents. This typically involves cars moving in the same direction. It’s mainly caused by distracted driving, speeding, unsafe lane changing, aggressive driving, and driving in poor visibility.

To avoid it, stay alert when driving. Avoid distractions, like conversations with passengers, eating/drinking, looking for things in the car, adjusting the radio, etc. Additionally, you should change lanes safely by:

• Signaling your intention on time (at least 100 feet before acting)
• Checking your mirrors to see if there is a vehicle approaching and if there is one in your blind spot (always keep your mirrors clean and properly adjusted)
• When it’s safe, proceed to change lanes as quickly as possible. Do not linger in between lanes
• Cancel your signal

Winter Car Accidents

Blizzards, heavy snow, wind chill, ice accumulation, and freezing temperatures can make winter driving dangerous. These elements can cause poor visibility and slippery roads.

To stay safe when driving during winter, you should always keep your headlights on, including during the day, to be noticed by other road users and increase your visibility. You should also clean your windows, windshield, and lights regularly. Consider using windshield wiper fluid during this time, as it can withstand freezing temperatures, allowing you to keep your windshield clean.

As mentioned before, it’s critical to increase the safe following distance during harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, ensure you use winter tires because they have better traction, saving you from sliding.

What To Do When Involved In A Car Accident

If you are injured in any of these types of car accidents or more, you may be eligible for compensation from the other driver or any other liable party. Our Colorado injury lawyer can investigate your case to determine how to handle it.