The growth in the Denver area has changed how people drive. Areas that were once rural ranch land are now bustling new communities. With more people, cyclists, and pedestrians out on the streets and sidewalk, traffic laws have been slow to change with the times. Will reducing through traffic make the roads in Colorado safer for everyone?

Fatal Car Accidents in Denver

According to a Colorado Department of Transportation report, there were more than 118,000 car crashes in 2017, including 648 fatal auto accidents. Speed was a factor in 35% of all fatalities and alcohol-impaired drivers were involved in 27% of fatalities. Between 2016 and 2017, fatalities increased in both urban and rural areas. Last year saw a drop in fatal traffic accidents in Denver but that was most likely because of the stay-at-home orders in force for much of the year. 

Now, with restrictions lifting and more people vaccinated, traffic is once again getting up to speed in Denver. A recent fatal accident in the West Highland neighborhood has residents asking for traffic changes to reduce the risk of speeding drivers to cyclists and pedestrians. One man was killed and his daughter was hospitalized after a speeding driver collided with several vehicles. 

According to Denver PD, the driver was speeding down West 32nd Avenue, crossed a double yellow, ran a red light, and then crashed into another vehicle. The impact was so forceful that it sent the crash into several parked cars. The driver of the impacted vehicle died and the man's daughter was sent to the hospital.   

Traffic Law Changes for Safer Roads

People who live in certain residential areas of Denver are all too used to cars speeding down residential streets. These are the same streets where children play, cyclists head out to work, and drivers are concerned about getting hit when trying to back out of the driveway. One resident was part of a group asking for traffic changes on just this stretch of the road and the city denied the request. 

Traffic law changes to increase safety could include closing roads to motor vehicle traffic, speed humps, stop signs, and one-way travel. However, some drivers and politicians resist the changes because it could increase traffic on throughways and increase driving time.  

Cyclists Accidents in Colorado

Most serious bike accidents in Denver are caused by cars. Some cyclists may be at fault but the majority of bike accidents involve negligent drivers who caused the accident. Causes of serious cyclist accidents in Colorado include: 

• Distracted driving
• Not sharing the road
• Speeding
• Road rage
• Drowsy driving
• Not checking blind spots
• Door opening in a bike lane
• Failure to yield
• Drunk drivers

Accident Denver Lawyer

Anyone involved in a car accident can suffer serious injuries. Neck and back injuries can cause permanent damage and chronic pain. Unfortunately, many victims rely on their insurance company's settlement offer, which does not begin to cover the medical costs of the accident. Before accepting a settlement, make sure you understand your rights. Contact our attorneys today at 303-642-8888 for a free consultation.