According to data from the City of Denver, traffic accidents reach their highest monthly totals in late summer. Car accident numbers begin to increase in July through October, with September having the highest average number of fatal or serious car accidents. Since 2013, July has averaged 281 serious car accidents. 

The Automobile Association of America (AAA) considers the 100 days between Memorial Day to Labor Day as the 100 deadliest days for car accidents. According to AAA, nationwide, more than 7,000 people died in teenage driving-related crashes over the summer from 2010 to 2019. New teen drivers are three times as likely to be involved in a deadly crash compared to adult drivers. 

Causes of Increased Summertime Accidents

There are several reasons for increased accidents over the summer. For example, young drivers are out of school over the summer and have more free time to drive around with their friends. College-aged drivers may be heading home for the summer or taking road trips with friends. Most families also use the summer to take a family trip, driving to visit relatives, or heading to destinations out of state. Other causes of summertime car accidents include: 

• Distracted driving
• Inexperienced drivers
• Driving in unfamiliar locations
• Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI)
• Drowsy driving

Drunk Drivers in the Summer

Some of the peak days for DUIs in Colorado occur during the summer, including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. There are often parties, backyard gatherings, or parades on these days and many people use these holidays to celebrate with a few drinks. Dehydration and day drinking can hit some drivers harder than they expect, leaving them too impaired to safely get home. 

Driver Distractions

There is plenty to distract drivers while behind the wheel. The most common modern distractions involve using a mobile phone while driving. Drivers may be texting, checking email, making a phone call, mapping a destination, or playing a podcast. Other causes of distracted driving could include looking for an address, eating or drinking while driving, or changing the radio station. Anything that takes the driver's attention off the road could put the driver and others at risk of getting into an accident. 

Tourists in Colorado

Tourism is a major source of income for Colorado and brings in tens of millions of visitors. Unfortunately, tourists can also cause some car accidents through negligent driving. People who are not familiar with Colorado traffic laws may accidentally violate the right of way laws, increasing the risk of an accident. Colorado attracts visitors with natural beauty but the natural landscape may also cause distractions. A driver may have never seen a herd of elk cross the road which could lead to a rear-end collision. 

Denver Car Accident Lawyer

After a car accident, the injury victim has to deal with medical care, vehicle repair, and trying to get back to earning an income. Relying on the insurance company may not be enough to recover your full compensation or the insurance company may only offer a small settlement. Compensation in an injury accident can include medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. Talk to your Denver accident lawyer for advice. Contact us today for a free consultation.