When planning holiday travel, many must decide whether to fly or drive. With busy airports and crowded highways, both options present unique risks.
But which is truly safer?
Here, we’ll break down the statistics, explore Denver’s traffic data, and provide key insights to help you make the safest choice this season.
If you are involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, our Denver accident lawyer is here to help.
Flying vs. Driving: The Risks and Statistics
Data from the National Safety Council reveals that driving is significantly more dangerous than flying. For every 100 million miles traveled, the NSC reports about 1.25 fatalities by car, compared to just 0.07 by plane. While driving is convenient and flexible, the higher accident rate cannot be ignored.
During the holiday season, driving risks increase further due to various factors:
- Heavier traffic: The holiday period often results in congested roads, raising the likelihood of accidents.
- Weather conditions: Snow, ice, and fog—common in Denver winters—make driving treacherous.
- Driver fatigue: Extended road trips and late-night drives contribute to tired drivers, a leading cause of accidents.
Conversely, air travel, while subject to rare incidents, boasts rigorous safety standards enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), making it the statistically safer choice for long-distance holiday travel.
Car Accident Statistics in Denver
Denver’s increasing population and tourist attraction points make it one of Colorado’s busiest cities. In 2023, the Colorado Department of Transportation reported over 25,000 crashes in Denver County alone, with the holiday months—November and December—showing a marked uptick. The increased volume of holiday shoppers, visitors, and residents adds to Denver’s already high traffic volume, creating challenging conditions on the road.
The Colorado Department of Transportation enforces strict measures, including DUI checkpoints and speed limits, but these measures only reduce, not eliminate, risks. Even with these controls,
Denver’s holiday accident rates remain higher than in other seasons, primarily due to the following:
- Impaired driving: Alcohol-related crashes increase during the holidays, often due to festive gatherings.
- Distracted driving: With many travelers relying on GPS, distractions are common, leading to accidents.
If you’re involved in an accident this season, remember that consulting a car accident lawyer in Denver can help you understand your rights and options.
Weather and Road Conditions: The Impact on Holiday Driving Safety
Driving in Denver during the holiday season means braving unpredictable winter weather. Ice-covered roads, freezing rain, and unexpected snowstorms make accidents far more likely. Colorado’s Chain Law requires vehicles to be equipped with traction devices (like snow chains) in specific conditions, but even with these measures, poor visibility and icy roads still lead to high crash rates.
Additional considerations like road closures and detours are common for travelers heading to or from the Rocky Mountains. Local laws mandate that drivers use caution in severe weather, but the risk remains significant.
Check the Colorado Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) COtrip website for real-time road and weather conditions if you’re considering driving in wintry conditions. Should an accident occur, reaching out to a Denver accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of Colorado’s accident laws.
Air Travel During the Holidays: A Safer, but Not Risk-Free Option
While air travel is statistically safer, it’s not without its challenges. Common air travel risks during the holidays include:
- Longer wait times: Busy airports can lead to delays, stress, and even missed flights.
- Weather disruptions: As with road travel, winter weather can cause flight delays and cancellations.
Fortunately, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and FAA have implemented stricter measures around holiday travel, ensuring higher safety standards. These protocols make aviation a safer choice, especially for long-distance trips.
The Financial Impact of Accidents: What to Consider Before You Choose
In addition to safety, an accident can have significant financial implications, especially for drivers. When a car accident occurs, victims may face medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and lost wages, all of which can accumulate quickly.
In Colorado, you have the right to seek compensation for these damages, especially if the accident was due to another party’s negligence. Hiring a top-rated personal injury lawyer in Denver can make a difference in receiving fair compensation.
Colorado is an “at-fault” state, meaning the party responsible for the accident is liable for damages. Therefore, if you’re planning to drive this season, it’s important to understand your rights.
According to data from the Colorado Department of Public Safety, an average accident in Denver can cost around $9,300 in property damage alone. These costs only increase with severe injuries, which could require a personal injury lawyer near me to help recover additional compensation.
Colorado’s Legal Perspective: Know Your Rights
Understanding Colorado’s specific laws surrounding car accidents is crucial. Colorado follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, which means that if you’re found to be 50% or more at fault in an accident, you cannot recover damages from the other party.
This underscores the importance of gathering evidence and documenting every detail for victims. Working with a Denver accident attorney can be essential in cases where the fault is shared or disputed.
Under state law, drivers must carry liability insurance, covering up to $25,000 per person injured and $50,000 per accident. However, given the high medical care and vehicle repair costs, these limits may only partially cover your losses. Consulting a car accident lawyer in Denver after an accident can ensure you’re fairly compensated beyond insurance policy limits.
Make the Safe Choice for Your Holiday Plans
While air travel is statistically safer, some may still prefer the flexibility and independence of driving. If you choose to drive this season, take extra precautions:
- Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with snow tires and traction devices.
- Plan for possible weather delays and avoid driving during severe storms.
- Avoid alcohol and distractions, and take breaks to reduce fatigue.
If you are involved in an accident, seeking advice from a top-rated personal injury lawyer in Denver can help protect your rights and aid your recovery.
Choose Safety, Know Your Rights
Whether flying or driving, planning for safety is paramount this holiday season. While flying remains the safer statistical choice, Denver drivers can stay safe by practicing extra caution, especially in challenging weather.
In the event of an accident, consulting with a car accident lawyer in Denver can provide the support needed to manage the aftermath. This season, prioritize safety—and enjoy peace of mind on your journey.
For more information or legal assistance after an accident, contact Levine Law for comprehensive support and guidance in Denver.
