In 2017, Colorado saw the highest number of traffic-related deaths in more than a decade. This was despite a decline in fatal accidents nationwide. The number of fatal auto accidents in Colorado has now risen three years in a row, and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is pointing to a variety of different factors:
“In 2015 and 2016 Colorado experienced increases in fatal crashes, which after adopting ‘Moving Towards Zero Deaths’ in 2013, is a disconcerting statistic. . . . With the legalization of marijuana, more and more technology causing distractions, climate change, low gas prices, a thriving local economy, and increasing population density in front range counties, there are many factors which play a part in the increased fatal crashes. While none of these factors alone can explain the increase, it is assumed that these and other factors all contribute to the increases Colorado is experiencing.”
With its 2018 Integrated Safety Plan, CDOT is adopting a number of goals focused on reducing the number of traffic-related deaths in Colorado. These goals shine a spotlight on the leading causes of auto accident fatalities, and they highlight just how significant the rise in fatalities has been in recent years.
CDOT is Working to Reduce Traffic-Related Fatalities Due to Numerous Causes
According to CDOT’s 2018 Integrated Safety Plan, the following are all top priorities in the department’s efforts to reduce traffic-related fatalities in Colorado:
- Unrestrained Passenger Vehicle Occupants (Failure to Wear a Seatbelt): CDOT’s goal is to reduce the number of fatalities due to failure to wear a seatbelt back to 2016 levels.
- Alcohol-Impaired Driving (BAC of 0.08 or Above): CDOT’s goal is to reduce the number of alcohol-related driving fatalities to 150 or less in 2018.
- Speeding: CDOT’s goal is to reduce the number of speeding-related fatalities back to 2016 levels.
- Distracted Driving: CDOT’s goal is to reduce the number of distracted driving-related accidents back to 2016 levels.
- Younger and Older Drivers: CDOT’s goal is to reduce the number of accidents caused by drivers under the age of 21 and over the age of 64 back to 2016 levels.
As you can see, at this point CDOT is largely focused on reversing the upward trend of the past few years. While 2016’s fatality rates were above acceptable standards, getting back to these rates is a first step toward achieving the goal of safer roads in Colorado. As a driver, what can you do to make Colorado a safer place to drive? Observe the rules of the road, pay attention to your surroundings, and hold negligent drivers accountable when they cause you harm.
Speak With a Denver Personal Injury Attorney at Levine Law
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in an auto accident in Colorado, it is important that you speak with an attorney about asserting your legal rights. The effects of the accident could last a lifetime, and you may be entitled to a significant financial recovery. To learn more in a free and confidential consultation, call us at 303-333-8000, or request an appointment online and an attorney will be in touch with you shortly.
