Thanksgiving marks one of the most dangerous times to travel on Colorado’s roads. Between packed highways, unpredictable mountain weather, and drivers rushing to reach family gatherings, the combination creates a perfect storm for serious accidents. Whether you’re a local heading to the mountains or an out-of-state visitor exploring Colorado’s scenic routes, the risks multiply significantly during this holiday period.

If you’re injured in a car accident during your Thanksgiving travels in Colorado, working with a local attorney may be essential to protecting your rights. At Mintz Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges faced by both Colorado residents and out-of-state visitors who are injured during the holiday travel season. Our team has more than 300 years of combined experience handling complex personal injury cases across Colorado and knows how to help you secure the medical care and compensation you deserve.

What Makes Thanksgiving Travel So Dangerous in Colorado?

Several factors converge to make Thanksgiving one of the deadliest travel periods in Colorado. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving consistently ranks as the busiest travel day of the year, with highways connecting Denver to mountain communities seeing traffic volumes spike by 50% or more. This congestion leads to more frequent sudden stops, lane changes, and rear-end collisions.

Colorado’s mountain routes present additional hazards during late November. Sudden snowstorms can blanket I-70 and other major corridors with little warning, transforming clear roads into treacherous ice sheets within hours. Visitors unfamiliar with winter driving conditions may lack the skills or equipment to navigate these challenges safely. Holiday celebrations often involve alcohol, and, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Thanksgiving holiday period sees a significant increase in drunk driving fatalities.

How Can You Protect Yourself on Colorado Roads This Thanksgiving?

Taking proactive safety measures can significantly reduce your risk of accidents during Thanksgiving travel. Start your journey earlier than you think necessary to avoid the pressure of rushed driving. Check weather forecasts for your entire route and monitor road conditions. Ensure your vehicle is adequately equipped for Colorado conditions with adequate tire tread, and carry emergency supplies including blankets, water, and a first-aid kit.

Before setting out, take these additional precautions to enhance your safety:

• Reduce your speed when approaching areas with heavy traffic, construction zones, or changing weather conditions to allow more reaction time
• Maintain at least three to four seconds of following distance between your vehicle and the car ahead, increasing this gap in poor weather
• Plan regular rest stops every two hours to combat fatigue, especially during long drives to mountain destinations

Stay alert to changing road conditions and be prepared to adjust your plans. If the weather deteriorates significantly or you feel too tired to drive safely, find a safe place to stop rather than pushing forward.

What Should You Do If You’re in an Accident While Visiting Colorado?

Out-of-state visitors face unique challenges after a Colorado car accident. Call 911 immediately to report the accident, even if injuries seem minor. Police officers or other authorities, such as ski patrol, will document the scene and collect contact information from all parties involved. This official report becomes crucial evidence if the at-fault driver refuses to voluntarily provide their insurance details.

If you’re physically able, collect the following information:

• Names
• Addresses
• Phone numbers
• Insurance information
• License plate numbers from all drivers involved

Visit a hospital or urgent care facility as soon as possible after the accident, even if you feel okay initially. Many serious injuries like whiplash or concussions don’t produce immediate symptoms. Delaying medical attention risks your health and gives insurance companies grounds to question the severity of your injuries.

Contact Mintz Law Firm After Your Thanksgiving Travel Accident

If you’re injured in a Colorado accident while visiting from another state, hiring a local Colorado attorney offers critical advantages. Thanksgiving should be a time for celebration, not dealing with the aftermath of a serious car accident. If you’ve been injured on Colorado’s roads during the holiday travel season, taking quick action protects your legal rights.

 Mintz Law Firm’s founder, David J. Mintz, has represented injured people throughout Colorado and across the country for more than 35 years, while managing attorney Eric C. Staton has over 15 years of experience helping persons with personal and work-related injuries. Our personal injury lawyers view our clients as people, not numbers, and we genuinely care about your well-being. Call (303) 462-2999 or complete a contact form to schedule your free consultation to discuss your case.