The festive season in Colorado is a time of celebration, gatherings, and winter wonderland adventures. However, amidst the joy and festivities, there is often an unfortunate rise in accidents.
From icy roads to busy shopping centers, the holiday season brings unique risks that can turn a happy occasion into a stressful ordeal. Understanding these common accidents and how to avoid them is essential for ensuring a safe and happy holiday.
If you are involved in an unfortunate accident, we are here to help. Call our Denver car accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal rights and options.
Increased Car Accidents During Winter Holidays
One of the most significant spikes in accidents during the festive season involves car wrecks. Winter weather in Denver often means icy roads, reduced visibility, and unpredictable driving conditions.
For victims of a car wreck in Denver, the aftermath can be overwhelming. From dealing with injuries to navigating the insurance claims process, the impact can be life-changing.
Colorado law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage, but that doesn’t always guarantee fair compensation after an accident. A Denver car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Alcohol-Related Accidents Spike During the Holidays
The holiday season often involves celebrations with alcohol, whether it’s at office parties, family gatherings, or New Year’s Eve festivities. Unfortunately, this leads to a surge in alcohol-related accidents. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), drunk driving accounts for one-third of all traffic deaths in Colorado, with the numbers peaking during the holidays.
Colorado law imposes strict penalties for driving under the influence (DUI), including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. However, these measures don’t always prevent impaired drivers from causing harm.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, consulting with a top-rated auto accident lawyer in Denver can make all the difference in holding the responsible party accountable.
Pedestrian and Shopping Mall Accidents
The holiday season also sees an increase in pedestrian accidents. With shoppers flocking to malls and downtown Denver for last-minute gifts, crowded parking lots and busy intersections can become hazardous. In 2023 CDOT reported a 14% increase in pedestrian accidents in November and December.
Colorado law protects pedestrians under the “duty of care doctrine,” meaning drivers must exercise caution and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. However, distractions such as cell phones, holiday lights, and festive displays can lead to negligence. If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, contacting an accident attorney near you can help you recover medical costs and other damages.
Slips and Falls on Icy Sidewalks
Slips and falls are another common type of accident during the holiday season in Colorado. Snow and ice accumulation on sidewalks and parking lots create treacherous pedestrian conditions. Colorado property owners are required by law to maintain safe walkways under Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-115, which governs premises liability.
Property owners may be liable for any injuries when they fail to clear ice or warn visitors of hazardous conditions. Slipping on an icy surface can lead to serious injuries, such as fractures or head trauma, which require extensive medical care.
If you’ve experienced a slip and fall accident, consulting with a Denver injury lawyer can help clarify your legal options and ensure you receive proper compensation.
Outdoor Activity and Skiing Accidents
Colorado’s stunning winter landscapes make outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding popular holiday pastimes. However, these activities come with risks. The Colorado Ski Safety Act outlines the responsibilities of ski area operators and skiers to minimize accidents, but mishaps still occur. Collisions on the slopes, faulty equipment, and poorly maintained trails can lead to severe injuries.
If an accident occurs due to someone else’s negligence, such as a reckless skier or improper trail maintenance, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. A Denver injury lawyer with experience in recreational accidents can help navigate the complexities of such cases.
Delivery Truck and Rideshare Accidents
The holiday season brings an increase in delivery trucks and rideshare vehicles on the road. Whether delivering gifts or shuttling partygoers, these vehicles contribute to holiday traffic congestion and accidents. Large delivery trucks are particularly hazardous due to their size and limited maneuverability, while rideshare drivers may be more prone to distractions or speeding to meet tight schedules.
Colorado law requires commercial drivers to adhere to stricter safety standards, and rideshare companies are mandated to provide driver insurance coverage. If you’re involved in an accident with a delivery truck or rideshare vehicle, a top-rated auto accident lawyer in Denver can help you navigate the claims process.
Staying Safe During the Festive Season
While the holiday season is a time for celebration, it’s important to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. Here are a few tips to minimize risks:
- Plan ahead and allow extra travel time to avoid rushing in poor weather.
- Designate a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
- Stay alert in parking lots and use crosswalks when walking near busy shopping areas.
- Ensure proper footwear for icy conditions and report unsafe walkways to property owners.
What to Do After an Accident
If you or someone you love is injured in a holiday-related accident, seeking legal advice promptly is crucial. Working with a car wreck attorney near you ensures you understand your rights and can pursue maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
At Levine Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty that follow a car wreck in Denver or any other type of holiday accident. As a top-rated auto accident lawyer in Denver, we are committed to fighting for justice and helping you move forward.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery.
