Distracted Driving Still a Major Problem in Colorado

Although most Colorado residents understand the importance of not driving while distracted it appears there are still many who do not obey the law. When distracted drivers are on Denver area roads, their full attention is not focused on the road and other drivers. This is what causes many car accidents on our state’s roads, including some accidents that result in serious injuries.

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, distracted drivers are causing an average of 40 accidents each day in Colorado. Many drivers are just not willing to put down the phone while they are driving even if they are driving only a short distance. In fact, in 2017 almost 90 percent of Colorado drivers admitted they have driven while distracted in the past week, with 40 percent reading messages on their phone. Over half of drivers have used their cellphone for conversations while driving. In 2016, there were 67 deaths in Colorado due to distracted driving.

Distracted driving continues to be a major problem in Colorado. Any accident caused by a distracted driver is preventable. Many distracted driving incidents occur because of cellphone use. Some drivers are just not willing to wait until they are done driving to make that phone call or check that text or social media post. Other distracted driving activities include putting on makeup, eating, looking at maps and adjusting the radio.

If a person has been injured in a car accident because of a distracted driver, they may want to speak with a personal injury professional. An attorney can review the police accident report and interview witnesses to find out what happened and who is at fault. Depending on the circumstances, compensation may be available for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.