Car accidents can happen unexpectedly for many reasons. While it’s vital for every driver to operate their vehicle responsibly and to do everything they can to avoid causing accidents, they should also know the most dangerous roads and intersections in Broomfield and the most common ways that accidents happen in the area. If you’ve been injured in an accident, a Broomfield personal injury attorney can help you recover your losses. Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Broomfield Broomfield is situated
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Douglas County is situated just south of the Denver metropolitan area, and it is vital for everyone who drives here to know the most dangerous roads and intersections in Douglas County. While it’s possible for accidents to happen anywhere with little to no warning, some places are inherently more dangerous for drivers than others. It is also vital to know what to do after an accident occurs. Dangerous Places to Drive in Douglas County Interstate 25 runs north to south
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The Longmont area is relatively busy, and there are some places where it is statistically dangerous for anyone to drive. It’s important to know the most dangerous roads and intersections in Longmont, the most common causes of accidents in the area, and what you can do after another driver has caused an accident with you. An experienced personal injury attorney can be an invaluable asset in this situation. Dangerous Places to Drive in Longmont According to recent accident trends in
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Car accidents happen every day, sometimes with devastating effects on those involved. It is important for every driver to know their rights and their responsibilities after a car accident happens, particularly when it comes to reporting the accident. You should know how to file a police report after a car accident in Denver and what you can do to recover damages that another driver caused. Reporting Your Accident in Denver Colorado law requires drivers to exchange their driver’s license information,
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Car accidents can happen on any road for various reasons, and it is vital for every driver in the state to know the risks they face while driving and what to do after an accident happens. A Colorado car accident lawyer is a valuable asset in the aftermath of any car accident, but it is important for drivers in Fort Collins to know the local hotspots for accidents to hopefully reduce their risk of experiencing accidents in the first place.
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Arvada is situated in the northwest section of the Denver metropolitan area and, as such, sees quite a bit of traffic every day. When accidents happen, it’s vital for drivers to know their rights and their recovery options, including how to prove liability for an accident. It is also important for drivers to know the most dangerous places to drive in the Arvada area. An Arvada car accident attorney is a valuable asset after any car accident caused by another
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Aurora is just east of Denver and home to thousands of people, most of whom drive every day without any problems. However, not all drivers reach their destinations safely, and accidents can happen in many ways. If you recently experienced an accident in Aurora, a Colorado car accident lawyer can help you recover your losses. Knowing the hotspots for accidents in the area can potentially reduce your risk of causing an accident and incurring liability for damages. Most Dangerous Places
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Car accidents can happen in a number of different ways, but almost all are caused by some sort of human error. Even the most cautious driver could become the victim of an accident if another driver or someone else makes a mistake. Victims of these accidents, though, do have the opportunity, often with the help of a Denver car accident lawyer, to seek compensation from those at fault for the accident. Why Do Car Accidents Happen? Automobiles and transportation on
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Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries. Those fortunate enough to be in a minor accident may have temporary, mild injuries, but it’s not uncommon for some victims of car accidents to experience life-altering injuries. In either case, there are likely a number of medical bills that are the responsibility of those who caused the accident. A Colorado car accident lawyer can be critical to helping those injured obtain the restitution that they’re owed. Common Car Accident
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If you drive in the Lakewood area, it is important to know the biggest risks you face on the road and the roads and intersections that report the highest accident rates in the area. While you cannot always anticipate how other drivers might behave, knowing the risk factors on your route can potentially help avoid causing an accident. A Colorado car accident lawyer can be an invaluable resource if another driver causes an accident with you in Lakewood. Most Dangerous
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Car accidents can happen unexpectedly in Colorado Springs for many reasons, but there are a few places that consistently report higher accident rates than others. If you drive in Colorado Springs, it is vital to know the roads and intersections where accidents most often occur. While you cannot always predict how other drivers may behave, a Colorado car accident lawyer can help you recover after another driver has caused an accident with you. Most Dangerous Places to Drive in Colorado
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It is crucial for every driver in Denver to know the risks they face on the road every day. While accidents can happen virtually anywhere for a number of reasons, there are a few roads and intersections in the Denver area that statistically carry a greater risk of accidents. If you have recently been injured in a car accident, a Denver car accident lawyer is your most valuable asset as you seek compensation for your damages. Danger Spots in the
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Car accidents happen every day in Boulder and surrounding areas of Colorado, and the right attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the final outcome of all the recovery efforts you make after your accident. A Boulder, CO, car accident lawyer can provide comprehensive guidance and ongoing support through every phase of recovery, from gathering the proof you need to establish liability to filing an auto insurance claim for you and then building a personal injury suit.
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Car accidents happen every day in the Colorado Springs area from various causes, and it’s important to know both how to avoid these situations whenever possible and what to do after another driver has injured you. Unfortunately, the state has recently seen a statewide trend of increased traffic fatalities over the past few years. It’s vital for every driver in Colorado Springs and throughout the state to know the biggest risks they face on the road. While no driver can
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The state experiences harsh winters and receives a great deal of precipitation throughout the year. These factors can make driving more dangerous in some areas of the state, and accidents can happen in various ways. It is crucial for every driver to know the risks they face on the road and how to minimize their chance of causing a serious accident. One of the most important things for all drivers to know is what to do if their car begins
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Car accidents are a leading cause of accidental injuries and deaths in the state, and the state enforces the fault rule for resolving these incidents. That means it will be essential to prove fault for your recent car accident if you want to maximize the recovery of your damages. However, this is more difficult for some car accident cases than it is for others, and having legal counsel on your side will make all the recovery efforts you pursue more
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Car accidents can happen unexpectedly in many different ways, and one of the most commonly reported types of car accidents is a rear-end collision. This type of accident involves one vehicle striking another from behind. It’s possible for a rear-end collision to happen for many reasons, and proving fault is an essential first step in recovering from any vehicle accident. The general rule is that when a driver hits another driver from behind, the trailing driver is responsible for the
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Car accidents happen every day from all types of causes. Some accidents occur because of negligence behind the wheel, while others are the results of intentional misconduct. No matter how an accident happens, the drivers involved are legally required to remain at the scene of the crash and report the incident to 911, waiting for first responders to arrive. When a driver causes an accident and flees the scene, it is known as hit and run. If you or a
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Car accidents can happen unexpectedly from countless possible causes. These incidents are a leading cause of accidental injury and property damage in the United States each year, and every car accident victim will face unique challenges as they seek compensation for their damages. If you or a loved one recently experienced a car accident and your vehicle is estimated to be a total loss, this can be incredibly frustrating and distressing, especially if you still owe money on the vehicle.
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Car accidents occur every day from various causes. When one driver causes an accident and injures another driver, the victim has the right to seek accountability for their damages. However, determining fault can be challenging as liability for an accident isn’t always immediately clear. It’s possible for more than one party to bear liability for your recent accident, and it is vital to resolve any questions regarding fault before you can secure any compensation for your losses. If you are
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Car accidents are a leading cause of property damage and personal injuries throughout the United States each year. Every state has different rules for resolving car accidents, but not all drivers uphold their legal responsibilities when they cause accidents. A hit-and-run occurs when a driver causes a collision and then flees the scene, attempting to avoid responsibility for their actions. A hit-and-run may occur when the victim’s vehicle is parked and unattended, and these accidents can also happen in active
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Car accidents are one of the most common causes of accidental injuries throughout the United States each year. When these accidents happen, state law dictates that the victim must identify the driver responsible to hold them accountable for their damages. Recovery from a car accident typically begins with an auto insurance claim against the at-fault driver, but the victim must prepare to file a personal injury suit as well when the at-fault driver’s insurance alone cannot fully compensate for their
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Car accidents happen every day for a number of reasons. When these accidents occur, the drivers involved must determine liability before anyone can recover compensation. If you have been harmed in an accident another driver caused, it is essential to know your legal options for holding them accountable. Proving fault for a car accident is more difficult in some cases than others. Depending on how and where your accident occurred, various disputes may arise concerning liability for the incident and
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Car accidents happen every day, and while some have devastating effects on those involved, others are not quite as severe. For example, minor car accidents or fender benders typically occur at low speeds, in parking lots, in slow-moving traffic, or within intersections. When these accidents happen, they might not result in injuries, but the parties involved must still determine liability and know what to do when it comes to reporting the incident. In this state, drivers must call the police
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Many drivers across the country are familiar with “lane splitting,” but this term is often misconstrued. The definition of lane splitting is any instance in which a driver passes between lanes of slower-moving drivers or when they occupy space next to another vehicle in the same lane. Lane splitting is illegal in the state, so if you’ve been in an accident and splitting lanes was involved, you need to speak with a Denver car accident lawyer. This term is most
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State law requires every driver to have auto insurance. This insurance must meet the state’s minimum coverage requirements for bodily injury liability and property damage liability. If you cause an accident with another driver, they have the right to start a claim against your auto insurance policy to seek compensation for the damages. Many people mistakenly believe that their auto insurance follows them no matter what vehicle they drive. This is not true, and the reality is that auto insurance
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The state enforces a wide range of traffic statutes that outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of licensed drivers in the state. Whenever a driver causes an accident, commits a moving violation, or receives a ticket for any type of traffic violation, they face a wide range of penalties based on the severity of their actions. A commonly reported traffic issue is driving without a license. Unless you have a clear life-or-death emergency, driving without a license is likely to
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Car accidents are a daily occurrence across Denver. These accidents happen for many different reasons and can have a wide range of resulting outcomes, from minor cosmetic damage to death. If the damage is minimal, these losses can easily be handled between the parties involved. However, more serious accidents cause greater damage and result in protracted legal proceedings. If you were recently involved in a car accident, you may be wondering how much your settlement could be worth. After a
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Every state in the country has different rules for resolving car accidents, typically taking either a “fault” or “no-fault” stance when it comes to assigning responsibility for damages. In a no-fault state, drivers must claim against their own auto insurance policies to recover from accidents regardless of fault. In a fault state, the at-fault driver is liable for all damages they caused to others. Colorado upholds the fault rule, so every driver in the state must have appropriate liability coverage
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Colorado law requires all drivers to have vehicle insurance that includes specific types of coverage. When a car accident happens, the at-fault driver is liable for any damages they cause to others. However, many drivers throughout the United States do not have vehicle insurance, or they do not have policies that provide the minimum amount of coverage required. If you were recently injured in a car accident that another driver caused, and you and/or the other driver do not have
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Though most of us have gone through a driver’s education course, it can be difficult to remember all of the minutia surrounding road rules. There are details and regulations that can easily become confusing, and many of us simply drive on autopilot the more we practice. Though this is natural, it is not necessarily safe. If you’ve had an accident in the state, you need to contact a Colorado car accident lawyer right away. Unfortunately, many adults who feel as
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Car accidents are one of the leading causes of accidental deaths, injuries, and property damage in the United States. These incidents occur in many different ways, sometimes leading to complex legal disputes between the parties involved. Various agencies at the state and federal levels collect, analyze, and report accident data each year. Reviewing this data could help you understand the risks you face on the road and assist you in avoiding some of them. The car accident lawyers at the
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Car accidents happen every day throughout Colorado for many reasons. While some of these incidents result in only minor losses that are easily addressed between the parties involved, others are more damaging and lead to protracted legal proceedings. If you have recently been involved in a car accident, it’s natural to wonder how much your settlement could be worth. There are generally two options for recovering from a car accident, and some accident victims may need to pursue both to
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All parents should understand Colorado’s car seat laws. Following these laws can not only prevent fines and other penalties but also keep children safer when car accidents happen. Car seats and booster seats are crucial devices for parents of small children. Properly installed high-quality car seats are legally required for many children in Colorado, too. If you have children, you must understand Colorado’s car seat and booster seat laws. If the police stop your vehicle and notice any violation of
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Obtaining a driver’s license is a rite of passage for most American teens, and it can be incredibly exciting for a minor driver to start exercising their newly earned driving privileges. However, newly licensed teen drivers are one the highest risk groups for accidents and must follow specific rules on the road. As they gain experience and become more cautious and confident drivers, they must follow a few laws designed to limit their risk of experiencing accidents. All teen drivers
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A car accident can be an incredibly damaging and traumatic event. While most car accident victims will be able to quickly ascertain the scope of the injuries they suffered, some car accident injuries aren’t immediately noticeable. Some injuries do not manifest noticeable symptoms until days or even weeks after an auto accident. It’s also possible for a victim to suffer delayed shock symptoms after an accident. Both the body and the brain undergo significant trauma in a vehicle accident. In
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Window tinting is popular in Colorado, and it’s perfectly legal for many drivers to have their windows tinted to an extent. However, Colorado enforces strict laws pertaining to window tint designed to ensure driver safety and limit the risk of accidents from poor visibility. Whatever reasons you may have for wanting tinted windows, you should know Colorado’s window tinting laws and how to interpret the various terms pertaining to window tinting. If you do not abide by Colorado’s window tinting
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All vehicle owners in Colorado must understand and abide by the state’s emissions requirements. Failure to do so can lead to fines and other penalties. In most cases, it’s relatively easy for a driver to bring their vehicle into compliance with the latest emissions standards in Colorado. If you need assistance with a vehicle emissions problem, contact Denver car accident lawyer for advice. If you drive in Colorado, take time to review the state’s emissions requirements to ensure your vehicle
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Car accidents are common throughout Colorado, and every day many drivers experience these incidents. Some car accidents are easily resolved with simple insurance claims, while others generate more complex legal disputes. Depending on how your accident occurred, who caused it, and the scope of your damages, you could face a very challenging series of legal proceedings in securing compensation for your losses. The first steps you take immediately following a car accident in Colorado have a dramatic impact on the
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Car accidents happen every day in the United States, and these incidents continue to be one of the leading causes of accidental deaths and serious injuries throughout the country. If you experience any accident, the incident may leave you with severe injuries and substantial economic losses. All drivers should know how to prevent car accidents, but it is also good to see how you can minimize your chance of suffering an injury in an accident. What Are the Best Ways
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After a car accident, the first step toward recovering your losses is typically to file an insurance claim. In a fault-based state like Colorado, every driver must purchase and maintain auto insurance coverage that meets state minimum requirements. In Colorado, those minimums are $25,000 or more in bodily injury liability coverage for a single person in an accident, $50,000 or more in bodily injury liability coverage for all victims of an accident, and $15,000 or more in property damage liability
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A car accident can be a scary, damaging experience. Regardless of who caused the accident, a car crash victim may have serious injuries that require extensive treatment, face substantial medical bills, and address the uncertainty that may arise from an inability to work during recovery. These are just a few reasons why it’s so important to secure legal counsel after a car accident caused by a negligent driver or other liable party. If you need a Denver car accident attorney,
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With the legalization of marijuana throughout the country, it becomes pertinent to identify and understand the rules and regulations surrounding its consumption. With concentrated forms of cannabis, like edibles, these regulations are even more important. Improper consumption can lead to side effects that often leave the user debilitated and/or disoriented, which can be dangerous within a range of different contexts. Colorado Marijuana Laws Colorado has passed a comprehensive set of laws that address proper marijuana consumption. For instance, no individuals
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After getting into a car accident, your first step for financial compensation should be filing an insurance claim. A claim with the at-fault party’s insurer may result in payment for your crash-related losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damages. If an insurance claim does not work, however, you may need to take the at-fault party to court during a personal injury lawsuit. In the state of Colorado, you have time limits on both types of claims. What
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A car accident can be a frightening and stressful situation, and it is not uncommon for affected drivers to feel confused about what to do immediately after an accident. Keeping a few tips in mind can help you make better choices following any car accident. Your choice of words when speaking with the police and insurance companies can have a dramatic impact on your final recovery after a car accident. Tips for Speaking With the Police The police respond to
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According to the Mayo Clinic, whiplash is usually an injury that occurs to someone whose vehicle is struck in the rear by another. Whiplash is a strain or sprain in the neck area and is the most widely cited injury in auto insurance claims in the U.S., of about 4 million. Many of these injuries will dissipate in a week or two, yet approximately 25% still persist three months later. What is Whiplash? The Quebec Task Force is an organization focused on
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When a woman is expecting, there are always health risks associated with her pregnancy. Most women make vehement efforts to lower the risk of complications by strictly adhering to their doctor’s orders. During the typical pregnancy, expecting mothers make a conscious choice to stop consuming alcohol and eating certain foods, and make sure they aren’t exposed to substances that would harm their unborn child. But many may overlook the dangers they face every time they enter their vehicle to go
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The likely time frame for completing a vehicle accident case really depends on the many variables involved. Although everyone seeks a timely resolution, the underlying goal is to do what’s necessary to be fairly compensated for the injuries incurred. Choosing an experienced car accident lawyer is important because familiarity with these types of cases allows for better efficiency. The courts have a duty to handle cases in a fair manner without unnecessary delay. Identifying the different variables that may be
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The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported that 3,986 lives were lost in 2016 stemming from commercial truck accidents. Roughly 66% were passenger vehicle occupants, 17% were occupants of trucks, and approximately 16% were on motorcycles, bicycles, or walking. One reason that these accidents are particularly dangerous is that commercial trucks or tractor-trailers can often weigh between 10,000 and 26,000 pounds. The majority of causes that lead to collisions between these trucks and passenger cars are classified as errors in driver recognition
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Those involved in minor “fender bender” collisions with minimal injuries may find the insurer’s settlement offer sufficient to cover the damage and move forward without a car accident lawyer. Those who are moderately injured are strongly encouraged to retain legal counsel. Insurance companies are businesses seeking to remain profitable; therefore, attempting to navigate a moderate to severe injury claim should be done with assistance from a personal injury lawyer accustomed to working with them. Keep in mind that court employees
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This is the fifth and final installment of our series regarding intersection safety. Pedestrians include those walking or riding in a wheelchair. Bicycles are categorized as vehicles according to Colorado law and have the same responsibilities as drivers. Both pedestrians and bicyclists are considered as vulnerable in terms of intersection collisions. Too frequently, motorists are speeding or using mobile devices without regard for the potential devastation that they may cause. Here, we will look at how liability or fault is legally determined
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Intersections are points of confluence for motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. At these junctions, there are more factors that can lead to collisions than at most points across the transportation network. In the U.S., intersections are the site of approximately 25% of roadway fatalities and roughly 50% of injuries. In this segment, we will look at various specific safety measures that agencies in Colorado are taking and also some of what the Federal Highway Administration is referring to as “innovative
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Colorado experienced a 40% increase in the volume of fatal accidents between 2013 and 2016. The Colorado Department of Transportation Safety explained the three primary factors that contribute to vehicle collisions are the road, the operator, and the car itself. The Federal Highway Administration indicates that 44% of crashes occur at intersections. The majority of vehicle crashes are caused by human error. Here, we will discuss the various human factors that have the largest effect on potential intersection accident involvement. Categories of Human Factors
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Pedestrians and bicyclists both have substantial vulnerability when encountering motor vehicles on the roadways and must remember to exercise caution. At intersections, most of these collisions occur when motorists or bicycles are turning or when pedestrians are crossing. Local governments are pursuing strategies to heighten intersection safety through better design, implementation of signs and devices to control traffic, and greater educational awareness. The reality is that safety in these situations is best achieved through a comprehensive approach that combines all of
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Colorado’s roads continue to be dangerous. In Denver, the volume of fatal traffic accidents has risen every year since 2005. In Colorado in 2015, there were 546 deaths, and these numbers rose to 605 and 630 in 2016 and 2017. This increase is occurring at a time when traffic safety awareness is higher than ever, seat belt use is higher than ever, and vehicles have more standard safety features than ever. In Colorado, fatalities at intersections continue to escalate from 112 in
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Julian Gutierrez drifted beyond his lane of travel and struck a car traveling in the opposite direction. Judith Mauricio, the driver of the other car, was severely injured in this head-on collision. Mauricio was also eight months pregnant at the time. After arriving at the hospital, she delivered a still-born baby girl. The Los Angeles Police determined Gutierrez had been operating under the influence and arrested him. Canadian Medical Association Study Donald Redelmeier and a team from the University of Toronto studied the health
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On U.S. roadways in 2016 there were an estimated 37,461 accident fatalities, which equates to nearly 750 per state. Many experts feel that autonomous or “driverless” vehicles will one day dramatically reduce the volume of crashes by removing the element of human error. Arizona leaders have encouraged companies such as Uber to conduct testing in the state. Recently, one of these cars struck and killed a pedestrian while operating autonomously with a “backup” driver on board. Uber has temporarily halted its testing in Arizona.
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Losing a loved one can be an extremely traumatic experience. Despite being a natural reality of life, it is likely that feelings of shock, confusion, sadness, and depression may result. A tragedy occurred recently in Weld County when a four-vehicle crash resulted in the death of three family members. Sheila Sinclair was traveling with her six-year-old son and two daughters’ ages three and one at the time of the accident. Sinclair and the two older children were killed in the crash.
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This is the first segment of a five-part series titled Anatomy of a Car Crash. The series will expand on several key topics that were recently addressed in our white paper Common Auto Accident Injuries in Colorado, which we invite you to read at this link. In this initial part, we discuss the three types of impact that occurs in a single crash. Impact is defined as an instance when something is struck with force. The three types of impact that occur (in succession) are
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This is the second segment of our five-part series called Anatomy of a Car Crash. Here, we will focus on the dangerous impact involved in rear-end accidents, which is when one vehicle strikes another from the rear. These are among the most commonly occurring types of vehicle collisions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that rear-end accidents compose approximately 23% of all occurrences, leading to substantial occupant injuries and property damage. They tend to occur during the day and the car that
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This is the third of our five-part series called Anatomy of a Car Crash. We will more thoroughly discuss a topic from our recently posted white paper titled Common Auto Accident Injuries in Colorado. Side-impact accidents are those where the front of a vehicle collides into the side of another. Other common terms used to describe this type of accident include angle or lateral impact, a T-bone, or broadside collision. These kinds of collisions are often likely to result in catastrophic injuries or death.
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Across the U.S. in 2017 there were 40,100 motor vehicle fatalities, which is just short of the 2016 total of 40,327. Approximately 4.57 million people suffered a serious injury resulting from a motor vehicle accident. Over the last twenty years, we have seen many significant safety features that have become standard equipment in vehicles including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The market today has many relatively inexpensive products that are available to add to your overall safety. Dash Cameras
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According to Fox31 News, it appears that we are likely in for roughly another six weeks or so of snow, which is good news for skiers. It does remind us, however, that wintry weather conditions will continue to create potentially dangerous roadway conditions, particularly in the mountainous regions. Amy Ford, of the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), says the agency is working hard to maintain the roads amid often challenging weather events. In the meantime, here are a few weather related
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How do autonomous (driverless) vehicles perform when operating amid tough wintry weather conditions? At the VTT Technical Research Centre located in Finland, they have developed Martti, a driverless vehicle that is capable of handling the challenges of snow and ice-filled roads. The vehicle is based on Volkswagen’s Touareg and it has had some success operating in the snow in the Lapland area of Finland traveling at a rate of 25 miles per hour. Carl Wellington, an engineer with Uber’s autonomous vehicle development
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Fatal crashes continue to increase all across Colorado, where there has been a 30% rise in fatalities since 2014. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) reported 635 traffic fatalities in 2017; a figure that they suggest is not simply the result of increases in the population. Colorado’s State Highway 13, just north of Rifle, has been a continuous trouble spot for accidents. Garfield County and State Patrol data indicates that 92 crashes have occurred in the area between 2013 and 2017. Recently,
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Drivers in fatal crashes are increasingly testing positive for marijuana in Colorado, with a rise from 627 to 880 fatal accidents between 2013 and 2016. In 2013, roughly 10% of drivers in fatal crashes tested positive, but in 2016 this number doubled to approximately 20%. One important thing to remember is that with the recent changes to marijuana laws, the frequency of testing for marijuana is higher now than in years past. Business Risk & Liability Marijuana usage can have ramifications
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The Insurance Research Council tracks uninsured motorist claims filed with auto insurance companies. Their recent data suggests that approximately 16.2% of Colorado motorists are uninsured, which is higher than the national average of 12.6%. The state does require that all motorists have vehicle liability insurance of certain minimum levels. Residents are required to present documentation showing insurance coverage for vehicle registration and may impose penalties for driving without coverage. For reasons unknown, the state ranks in the top-ten in this
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Here, we look at accidents that are part of scams orchestrated by criminals. Most citizens are honest and hardworking members of society; however, there is a criminal element that seeks to take advantage of aspects of accidents and insurance. Actions classified as fraud, such as the auto accident scams we will discuss, are among the most common financially-based crimes in the country. Organized Criminal Activity Certain regions of the United States have particularly high rates of such activity. In Colorado
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The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration estimates there are more than 6 million passenger car accidents and another 4 million light truck accidents annually. In light of these statistics, drivers seem to have a false sense of security on the road today: vehicles are increasingly comfortable with many enhanced safety features, offering a feeling of safety. The reality is that each day accidents lead to property damage, injuries, and fatalities. Being prepared with the knowledge of how to proceed after
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This is the first of a four-part series titled Nightmare Scenario Car Accidents discussing the often traumatic implications of car accidents. According to Merriam Webster, the term traumatic is used to describe a disorderly mental or behavioral state that is caused by severe stress or physical injury. In terms of a car accident, the events of an accident could be shocking and result in severe physical harm or death. Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicates there were 37,461
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In 2016, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) data indicated that there were 608 traffic fatalities in the state, an 11% increase. This trend continued in 2017 with another rise in roadway deaths and thousands of people who suffered injuries of varying types. Despite widespread awareness in the community about vehicle accident safety, problems such as impaired driving, speeding, and distracted driving have continued to make Colorado roads a dangerous place. How do you know if you need an attorney
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After being involved in a significant motor vehicle accident, it is critical to be examined by a doctor in a timely fashion, even if you feel that your injuries are minor or nonexistent. The following are some things to keep in mind if you have been injured in an accident. If your injury is apparent, take photos following the accident. You should always follow any treatment plan provided for you, failing to do so may hinder your ability to obtain
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In certain situations, such as multi-vehicle accidents or when fault is strongly being challenged, your personal injury attorney may deem that using vehicular accident reconstruction will benefit your case. Deciding to retain an individual or firm that focuses on this type of specialized work is important, in part because the cost of doing so may be significant. What is Accident Reconstruction? The process of accident reconstruction seeks to determine how and why a car accident transpired using various technical methods.
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Photos are impactful as evidence in car accident claims because they can offer illustrative details of the scene of the accident, vehicle damage and injuries that may have been incurred. The majority of U.S. residents have a mobile phone of some kind equipped with a camera. Over 77% of residents have a smartphone equipped with cameras and video capabilities. This technology that we all almost possess can come in handy if you are in an accident and want to memorialize by photo
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Anytime a vehicle is involved in a collision with another vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian that leads to injuries or property damage, law enforcement should be contacted. The police will respond to assess, document, and clear the scene of the accident. One critical function of these responders is the completion of an accident report. The report is typically filed and available within a day or two after the incident for little or no cost. Accident Alert Exception There are rare instances
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Arrests for driving under the influence in Colorado’s ski resort towns continue to persist, placing many unsuspecting drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians in potential danger. Greg Daly, the Avon Police Chief, says that many of those visiting the Central Rockies resorts are simply there to “party.” The 5th Judicial District, which includes Clear Creek, Lake, Eagle and Summit counties, leads the state for drunken driving arrests with a ratio 8.8 per every 1,000 residents. The 9th Judicial District, which includes Garfield,
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We are currently awaiting the 2017 finalized roadway accident data for Colorado. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), we know there was an increase in the number of fatalities compared to the 615 in 2016. Early indications suggest a rise in crashes resulting from impaired driving and among those who were not wearing a seatbelt. Sam Cole, a CDOT spokesman, explained — although the numbers suggest that all was bad — there were some positive results this year,
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Over one-million individuals are admitted to hospitals annually for severe injuries incurred in traffic accidents. In 2012, vehicle accidents resulted in $18 billion in overall lifetime costs of medical care. Among the many injuries, a broken bone, also known as a fracture, is one of the most common. Broken bones can greatly hinder mobility, overall range of motion, and be associated with paralysis. Here, we will look at the common bone injuries which occur in accidents and the potential long-term consequences. Common
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A recent study by LifeSaver suggests as many agents report that closer to 60% of insurance claims actually are related to distracted driving. Bill Caldwell, Executive Vice President at Horace Mann Insurance, thinks that the root problem is the plethora of smartphone applications that are now available. Other examples of distracted driving include those who are eating, making climate control adjustments, and tending to child passengers–which could be a bigger problem than cell phone use. Here, we will look at some of
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A great deal of emphasis regarding distracted driving is placed on the usage of mobile devices, eating, applying makeup and other activities. But have you considered the distractions that may occur when driving with children? Staying focused on the road is critical when turning, braking, merging, and changing lanes. Roughly 80% of accidents and 65% of “close calls” involve a driver who is distracted in some way. A recent report by the Monash University Accident Research Center explained how parents are operating
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How do distractions further impact those who have recently begun driving a motor vehicle, such as teens? Learning to do something new generally takes some time; such is the case with riding a bicycle or learning a sport. When learning to drive a vehicle, the process has potentially more dangerous consequences because we share the roads with one another. Teenagers who are getting behind the wheel for the first time are obviously more prone to mistakes leading to car accidents
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Studies continue to surface explaining the problem with driving while conducting phone calls and using text messaging. The risk of a crash increases roughly 3.6 times when drivers use mobile devices. Across the U.S. there are over 320 million wireless internet connections. A recent report indicates that as many as 9% of drivers may be simultaneously using mobile devices while driving on any given day. A recent AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study revealed that over 60% of drivers claim to have
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This is the final of a three-part series titled Personal Injury & Digital Technology: Where We Are & Where We Want to Be that looks at how digital technology impacts personal injury actions. Digital technology usage will rise in the coming years. The volume of digital data is approximately 10 zettabytes and will reach 40 zettabytes by 2020. Jobs in tech-driven areas will see significant growth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that massive occupational opportunities will be in STEM–science, technology, engineering,
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This is the first segment of a three-part series titled Personal Injury & Digital Technology: Where We Are & Where We Want to Be that analyzes how digital technology is impacting personal injury actions. Recent data from the Pew Research Center indicates that roughly 95% of Americans currently own a mobile (cell) phone and 77% of those are smartphones. Approximately 80% of adults in the U.S. own either a desktop or laptop computer. We have seen technology transition virtually all aspects of our culture,
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During 2015, Colorado had approximately 3,217 traffic accidents that resulted in severe injuries and 547 with fatalities. Unfortunately, in 2016 the volume of fatal accidents rose by roughly 10% to 608. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggests that over $100 million is spent just in medical costs resulting from accident injuries and fatalities in Colorado. State agencies including the Colorado Department of Transportation and Colorado State Patrol are currently
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On average, 343 traffic fatalities occur in the U.S. during the three-day Christmas holiday. This average increases to roughly 373 over the three-day New Year holiday time. The vast majority of these deaths are preventable. An estimated 94% of traffic accidents are the result of human-based behavior. In the U.S. in 2016, over 37,000 people were fatally injured. In Colorado specifically, the death toll was 605 and included 125 operating motorcycles, 16 on bicycles and 84 pedestrians. 1. Seat Belts &
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This is the second of a four-part series titled Personal Injuries & Thanksgiving, which seeks to identify major safety concerns associated with this holiday period. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) has tracked data regarding traffic fatalities on major holidays for over 30 years. They found that roughly 91% of those in the U.S. will travel by car on Thanksgiving and twice as many travelers go 50 miles or more, considerably more than on Christmas or New Year’s Day. In
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This is the final of a three-part series entitled Car Accidents, Personal Injuries & the Insurance Carrier. In the earlier parts we reviewed the difference between first-party claims and third-party claims for damages and then outlined the general claims process. Here, we look at the process of a lawsuit in cases based on automobile accidents. Unfortunately, accidents and their subsequent civil actions are a reality in the U.S and severe accidents here in Colorado continue to rise. The National Safety Council reports that
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This is the second of a three-part series entitled Car Accidents, Personal Injuries & the Insurance Carrier. Here, we will provide an overview of the claims process. We purchase auto insurance to provide financial coverage for losses and damages that may occur. A claim is filed with an insurer for compensation after a party sustains property damage and/or bodily injury. In the U.S., there are millions of auto insurance claims filed each year. In 2016, claims exceeded 6 million from crashes,
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This is the first of a three-part series entitled Car Accidents, Personal Injuries & the Insurance Carrier. We will begin by looking at Colorado’s auto insurance system historically, as it has changed considerably in recent years. Next, we will assess current market conditions in the state and explain and differentiate first-party claims from third-party claims in the auto insurance system. In 2003, the state repealed the existing “no-fault” auto insurance system that was in place for 30 years. The Governor felt
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Insurance is well established in our society as a way to limit risk and provide economic security. Both individuals and businesses use various insurance products for everything from cars, health, homes and more. The insurance industry is also among those most subjected to regulation. Each state assigns a department to be responsible for oversight of financial dealings involving insurance companies. States have drafted provisions that specify the standards that companies are to adhere to. According to the recent Colorado Division of
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Roadway crashes between vehicles and animals is a nationwide problem. State Farm Insurance data indicated that in 2014, Americans had 1.25 million collisions involving deer that led to an estimated $4 billion in damage, which doesn’t include dozens of other species of animals. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that approximately 200 fatalities occur from such accidents annually. Here in Colorado, the problem is evident, as in 2016 there were nearly 6,900 animal collisions reported. The Colorado Parks &
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Zachary Schlagel, an 18-year-old from Windsor was killed in an accident on Austin Bluffs Parkway at Stanton Road in Colorado Springs recently. The El Paso County Coroner says he died from injuries inflicted in the collision. Schlagel and two other pedestrians were crossing lanes when a truck crashed into them. Another pedestrian escaped with only minor injuries. Police identified the truck and driver, but he has not yet been apprehended. Since 2014, the volume of traffic deaths in Colorado has risen nearly
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Drivers who fail to yield or observe laws relating to rights-of-way is a problem on the roads. Much of the reason why these violations occur is that drivers do not recall rules related to yielding. The traffic laws generally do not define who has the right-of-way, rather they explain who must yield based on a variety of possible circumstances. Data across all U.S. states show that failure to yield the right of way are a cause of accidents. The Colorado State Patrol
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Colorado has problems with traffic fatalities, with 545 in 2015, which represented a 10% rise over 488 in 2014. 2015 was also the all-time high for motorcycle fatalities within Colorado, with a total of 104. With 3.8 million estimated drivers in Colorado, the chances of a fatality are roughly 1 in 7,000. A recent study showed that lane violations are the cause in 8.4% of overall accidents, and yearly over 400 injuries or deaths typically occur. Colorado State Patrol (CSP) Trooper Paul
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Approximately one in every three traffic fatalities in the U.S. results from a driver who is under the influence. Recent figures indicate that over 10,000 fatalities and over 200,000 injuries occur annually from drunk driving. Throughout the U.S. we have seen considerable reforms, legislation, and enforcement efforts related to drunk driving over the past 30 years. All U.S. states have a uniform established threshold for determining when a vehicle operator is over the limit for alcohol at a blood-alcohol level
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The next causal factor addressed in this series is speed, which is a key risk factor in roadway accident injuries because it impacts the likelihood of a crash and generally increases the magnitude of the injuries resulting from crashes. Speed limits are established to maintain roadway safety; however, based on volatile conditions at a given time, there may be a need to recognize that a reduced speed is more suitable. Colorado statute explains that drivers must travel at a speed that
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Distracted driving occurs when vehicle operators are texting, tending to children, eating, or reading while driving. Reports suggest that although drivers are aware of the problem, they continue to allow distractions to jeopardize themselves and others on the road. Proving that a driver was distracted is more difficult than, for example, driving under the influence of alcohol, which can be determined with a breath test. In response to this problem, Colorado Governor Hickenlooper recently finalized legislation that increases the penalty
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Several common causes of roadway crashes, such as, inattentiveness, excessive speed, driving under the influence, lane violations, and failing to yield, cause approximately 70% of accident injuries or fatalities. The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is the lone statewide agency responsible for enforcement of traffic laws. The CSP responds to about 30% of all car accidents in Colorado and investigates approximately 70% of those with a fatality. Properly identifying causal factors for crashes is critical in overall efforts to reduce injuries,
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This is the third and final segment of the series Impaired Driving Marijuana, which will discuss public awareness regarding the potential dangers of driving under the influence of marijuana. During the period when the marijuana industry was seeking legalization in Colorado, cannabis was often promoted as a safer option than alcohol. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) conducted a survey that indicated 72% of Colorado marijuana users felt it was safer to drive after using marijuana compared to alcohol. Roughly 50% of respondents
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