5 Reasons Why Colorado is Experiencing More Auto Accidents
If you’ve ever visited our blog before, then you are well aware that one of our favorite topics to discuss is traffic safety. At this point, we’ve given dozens, if not hundreds, of tips on how you and your family can stay safe while out on the road and what to do following the unfortunate event of being involved in an auto accident.
While we have certainly helped people stay safe, the truth is that Colorado has been experiencing more auto accidents in recent years, which is one reason why we’ve attempted to pitch in and help. To provide you with some insight into this ongoing problem, we’ve compiled five reasons why our gorgeous state has been experiencing more problems out on the road.
Distracted Driving
Never before have drivers had so many things to potentially distract them from driving their automobile safely. Despite the risks of checking your phone, texting someone, messing with your iPod, or dipping your McNuggets into a small cup of BBQ sauce, people continue to do these things on a regular basis. Colorado drivers aren’t alone – texting and driving, for instance, has become an epidemic that puts drivers at risk across the entire country.
Road Rage
The sad truth about many drivers is that they let their emotions get the best of them when they get behind the wheel. If another driver takes an unsafe risk, or even makes a mistake ends up being harmless, many drivers resort to road rage. They’re going to teach that other driver a lesson by tailgating or cutting them off. It’s absolute madness. Escalating a dangerous situation by road raging is just asking for trouble, and that’s when accidents happen.
Being in a Rush
Perhaps it’s part of our biological makeup that we, as human beings, are always in a hurry. Or maybe our ever-evolving technology, which makes things move faster and faster, is putting us all in a rush. While some drivers enjoy their drive home or up to the store as a way to relax with their favorite podcast or musical selections, most drivers simply want to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. This causes them to speed, run red lights, turn quickly, and other unsafe driving behaviors that increase the likelihood of an accident.
Inclement Weather
Colorado has gorgeous weather throughout much of the year, but when inclement weather hits, it really hits. Snowstorms, heavy rain, and cascading hail all cause driving conditions to worsen. When this occurs, drivers are often not nearly as cautious as they should be. They don’t slow down. They don’t pull over and wait out a storm. They don’t put off travel until the weather clears up. Instead, they act as if everything is normal, and that can put everyone on the road at risk.
Alcohol and Drugs
Maybe there will be a day when alcohol is no longer a factor in auto accidents, but that is certainly not today. Despite having more ways to safely return home than ever before – especially with taxis and ride-sharing services in most areas – drivers continue to get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol. The same is true for smoking marijuana just before driving, though this seems to happen to a much lesser extent. We all know that alcohol and drugs don’t mix well with driving, but some drivers refuse to be sensible.
Every Colorado resident should be concerned with traffic safety. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and when they do, it is essential that you seek the advice of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. If you find yourself in need of legal expertise, reach out to the experts at Mintz Law Firm and we will provide you with a free case evaluation.