Colorado has been elevated to the second best place to live in the U.S., according to a survey published on 24/7 WallSt. This study showed that Colorado residents are likely to live longer, have healthier lives and enjoy a better quality of life. Our population is rapidly increasing, which may have its benefits, but it also means more traffic and traffic crashes.
Traffic Accident Statistics In Colorado
More people are moving in than out of Colorado by the largest margin since 2008, as reported in the Denver Post. People are flocking to our state for healthier living and a better quality of life. But heavy traffic, particularly traffic crashes, can ruin the quality of life in any area.
A total of 121,922 traffic crashes occurred in Colorado in 2018, as stated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Classified according to human contributing factors, statewide accidents occurred as follows:
- Asleep at the wheel – 1,568
- Driver fatigue – 1,053
- Illness/medical factors – 1,054
- Driver inexperience – 9,922
- Aggressive driving – 6,721
- Driver unfamiliar with area – 4,112
- Driver emotionally upset – 379
- Evading law enforcement officer – 324
- Physical disabilities – 179
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs – 6,081
- Distracted driving (passenger) – 1,317
- Distracted driving (cell phone) – 1,981
- Distracted driving (radio) – 547
- Distracted driving (other) – 11,440
- Other factors – 14,856
What Should You Do After a Traffic Crash?
No matter how diligently you drive, you may be involved in a car accident caused by the negligence of another driver. After a crash, take the following steps, if you are able, to help protect yourself:
Document accident information: This includes the other driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance information, and contact information. Also document the time, date, and location of the accident and contact information for any eyewitnesses.
Document the accident scene: Take photos showing the damage to your car, the other car, and any public property. Get pictures of the intersection, traffic lights, skid marks, and any other details that may be helpful in establishing liability. Write down any details you can remember about how the accident occurred.
Call 911 to report the accident to the police: This also serves the purpose of alerting medical response teams so anyone injured in the crash can receive medical attention. The responding police officer will create an accident report – a critical piece of evidence for establishing negligence and liability. When the police arrive, answer their questions truthfully, but avoid making assumptions about what happened in the crash. Simply tell them what happened, without accepting or assigning fault for the accident.
Seek medical attention: This is important, even if you believe you are not injured. Adrenaline from the crash can mask serious injuries. A diagnosis of your injuries is critical for pursuing compensation. Follow your doctor’s advice and keep all medical appointments.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible, even if your damages should be covered under the at-fault driver’s policy: In case the other driver makes a claim against you, your insurer will be able to defend you or negotiate a fair settlement, if you were at fault. Do not discuss fault and do not give the insurance company a recorded statement until you speak with an attorney.
Call an experienced Colorado car accident lawyer right away: Evidence may be lost or destroyed if you delay. Our personal injury attorneys at the Tenge Law Firm, LLC have a successful track record recovering substantial settlements, verdicts, and awards for our clients. Contact us at (303) 665-2929 to get a dedicated legal advocate on your side after a serious car accident.