Where Fatal Car Accidents Happen Most in Colorado

The latest data on car accidents on Colorado roadways is in, and the results are clear. Like many states, fatalities across Colorado are largely dependent on the population, though preventable behaviors can help reduce Colorado’s road accident statistics and avoidable fatalities.

From understanding which Colorado counties have the highest accident rates to understanding what types of car accidents result in life-threatening injuries and fatalities, you can better understand how to protect yourself and your loved ones on Colorado roadways.

Despite the state’s overall improvements to local and state roadways after the pandemic, there are still a significant number of concerns that both governing bodies and residents have. Let’s take a closer look at what the data has to say, and what you should be aware of as a resident or visitor to the state.

Have you been injured in a Colorado car accident? Turn to the legal experts at Bachus & Schanker today.

Colorado Road Accident Death Statistics 

The Fatality Analysis Reporting System, compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, has identified the counties in Colorado that have reported the highest fatalities from motor vehicle accidents in 2023 (the year in which the latest data is available). 

The data was compiled and ranked by the number of deaths per 100,000 people. Only counties with five deaths during 2023 were included, and specific data on pedestrians, cyclists, and drunk driving-related deaths were also compiled. 

Here’s how the data breaks down:

Saguache County ranked as number one with a total of 89.7 fatalities per 100,000 people. This was followed by:

• Kit Carson County: 71.1 fatalities per 100,000 people.
• Huerfano County: 71.0 fatalities per 100,000 people.
• Clear Creek County: 54.8 fatalities per 100,000 people.
• Park County: 38.6 fatalities per 100,000 people.

It’s important to recognize, however, that although El Paso County did not make the top five list (it ranked #23), this county saw a total of 78 deaths in 2023, a reflection of its larger population. 

Among these deaths, there were:

• 18 pedestrian deaths
• Three bicyclist deaths
• 16 deaths involving drunk drivers

The roadway with the most fatalities was I-25 (nine fatalities). 

Additionally, Denver County ranked as having the highest number of pedestrian deaths at 32, a fair representation of the state’s dense, urban population. These road accident death statistics paint a concerning picture for both rural and urban areas.

What Are Common Causes of Colorado Car Accidents?

As with other parts of the state, and the nation as a whole, there are a number of common causes that result in car accidents. 

In the recent data compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, common causes for car accident injuries and fatalities include: 

• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence
• Speeding
• Impaired driving
• Not wearing a seat belt

Throughout Colorado, there is a specific trend among urban and rural counties. Car accidents involving speeding and commercial vehicles tend to happen in rural areas or interstates that cut through the county. Meanwhile, pedestrian and bicyclist accidents and fatalities are in urban areas, like El Paso County. Understanding these patterns is key to interpreting the state’s overall road accident statistics.

How To Protect You and Your Loved Ones After a Car Accident

It’s important to recognize that if you’ve been injured in a car accident, you still have legal rights and options that you can tap into, even if you were partially at fault. Like the majority of states, Colorado has an at-fault insurance system. This means that the driver who is at fault in a car accident can be held legally responsible for the resulting damages a victim faces.

In these types of cases, if you are a victim injured by another driver who was at fault, both of you must notify your insurance company for the claims process to begin. During the course of an investigation, insurance representatives will determine the extent of liability the at-fault driver holds, and a settlement will be paid out to you to cover the cost of damages. 

If you’re involved in a car accident where the damages are extensive or you’ve suffered a severe injury, legal representation is critical as it can help you recover the full compensation you might be entitled to. 

Auto insurance companies are known to lowball settlement offers as a way to save costs, and the right legal support from a car accident attorney or wrongful death lawyer can ensure you don’t become victimized twice after a car accident.

Colorado Comparative Negligence

Even if you were partially at fault for the accident happening, under Colorado’s comparative negligence law, you can still pursue legal action if you were 50% or less at fault. Whatever damage you suffer, your settlement award will be minimized by your percentage of fault.

Understand your legal options and rights after a car accident when you schedule a free case evaluation with the legal experts at Bachus & Schanker. Call today to book your free case consultation and get the support you need through our Victim’s Advocates Team.

Stay Protected on Colorado Roadways

Anyone can be a victim of a severe injury or fatality following a car accident, but the percentage of risk is higher when easily avoidable behaviors, like distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and not wearing a seatbelt are practiced.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car crash anywhere in Colorado, our attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and recover fair compensation. Get in touch today to schedule your free case evaluation.