Learning about the most common cause of car accidents in Denver can help prevent you from being involved in a motor vehicle collision in the future. Here, we’ll provide some insight into why auto accidents are so common in Denver and the different factors that contribute to car crashes. We will also go in-depth regarding driver negligence and what forms of driver negligence can result in a life-changing car crash.
What is the Most Common Cause of a Motor Vehicle Collision in Denver?
The most common cause of a motor vehicle collision in Denver is driver negligence. Every driver has a duty to control and operate their vehicle with a reasonable degree of care. When a driver fails to uphold their duty of care, it can result in an automobile accident, injury, or even death.
Common examples of driver negligence include:
Violating Traffic Laws
Drivers commonly violate traffic laws, especially if they’re in a hurry. A driver may fail to stop at a red light or stop sign, significantly increasing their chances of being involved in a collision.
Speeding
When a driver is running late they may drive above the speed limit. When a vehicle is traveling too fast, it can take longer to slow down. Additionally, at higher speeds, the driver may lose control of their vehicle or may not be able to respond to sudden changes in traffic.
Aggressive Driving
Drivers can experience road rage due to their belief that another motorist isn’t acting respectfully or due to frustrations about heavy traffic conditions. Road rage can lead to following vehicles too closely, passing vehicles illegally, cutting people off, or acting in other ways that put other road users at risk of being involved in an accident.
Driving Under the Influence
When a driver gets behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or taking an illegal substance, they put the lives of every road user at risk. Driving under the influence can cause blurry vision, poor judgment, slow reaction times, and trouble maintaining coordination and balance. This can make it impossible for a motorist to drive safely and avoid being involved in a collision.
Cell Phone Use
Cell phone use, whether sending or reading a text or talking on the phone, is one of the leading causes of auto accidents in Colorado. Failing to pay attention to the road can result in a driver missing important details or sudden changes in traffic conditions. They may not even notice pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, other drivers, or obstacles on the road. Even if a driver avoids texting or cell phone use while driving, there are many other forms of distracted driving that can affect them, such as talking to a passenger, watching a video, or eating while driving.
Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. A driver that is fatigued may close their eyes briefly, nod off, and can collide with other vehicles, objects, or even people. Fatigued driving occurs due to lack of sleep, the use of certain types of medications, or conditions such as insomnia or sleep apnea. A drowsy driver may follow the vehicle in front of them too closely, can fall asleep at the wheel, may accidentally drift into another lane, or may find it difficult to focus on the road and run a red light or stop sign.
Poor Road Conditions
Poor road conditions often contribute to serious auto accidents, especially when a driver isn’t driving cautiously and fails to adjust their speed or following distance. Inclement weather, icy, snowy, or wet roads, construction zones, potholes, and faded lines are just some examples of dangerous road conditions that can contribute to a fatal accident.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help Me with My Claim?
If you were involved in a car crash with another motorist that was caused by driver negligence, a car wreck lawyer at the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal can help. An attorney on our legal team can conduct an accident investigation, help you file a claim, and handle all communication with the insurance company. A car accident lawyer will fight for your right to the fair settlement you deserve, for an accident that was caused by the negligence of another.
Contact Us Today
If you were involved in a car crash in Denver that was caused by a negligent driver, the car accident lawyers at the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced member of our legal team to learn more.
