Driving in Denver: Fall Safety Tips for Drivers and Passengers

Fall is here, and in the Denver area, that means the return of increased highway congestion, early sunsets and, soon, the potential for snow. With more people driving to work now that Summer is over, and with poor driving conditions imminently on the horizon, Fall also means a potential increase in the number of motor vehicle collisions.

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), snow, sleet and hail are factors in 60 percent of all weather-related accidents in the state. So, as Denver residents hit the roads this Fall, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Get Your Vehicle Ready

If your car, truck or SUV is overdue for maintenance, now is the time to get it into the shop. Make sure your brakes and tires are ready for slick roads, make sure all of your lights are functioning properly, and do what you can to avoid being stranded due to a breakdown. Now is a good time to put an emergency kit in your trunk as well.

2. Check the Weather Forecast

Check the weather before you drive. If the forecast is calling for snow, sleet or hail, consider whether your safest option may be to stay home. The weather in the mountains can be vastly different from the weather in downtown Denver, so if you are heading west be sure to check the forecast at your destination as well.

3. Be Prepared for Traffic Congestion

With the kids back in school, commuters in the Denver area need to be ready for increased traffic congestion. So, it is a good idea to prepare yourself to spend more time in your vehicle than usual. Set your playlist before you start driving to decrease your distractions, and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.

4. Extend Your Buffer Zone

In bad weather, it is necessary to maintain more than the usual two-second buffer between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. When the roads are icy or covered in snow, safety needs to be your first priority, and tailgating isn’t going to get you anywhere faster. 

5. Stay Focused on the Road

While all drivers should always avoid driving distractions, staying focused on the road is even more important in bad weather or traffic conditions. Drivers should put away their phones, and passengers should understand that their drivers may not be able to carry on a conversation.

6. Steer and Brake Gradually but Steadily  

If you lose traction or approach bumper-to-bumper traffic, it is important to steer or brake gradually and steadily in order to avoid completely losing control. Swerving (and overcorrecting) are common causes of bad-weather accidents, and slamming on the brakes can put you into an uncontrollable skid.

7. Know What to Do in the Event of an Accident

Finally, if you are involved in an accident, it is important to know what you need to do. To find out, you can read: 10 Facts to Know if You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident in Denver.

Contact the Denver Auto Accident Lawyers at Levine Law

If you get injured in an auto accident, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is the best way to protect your claim for financial compensation. To discuss your case in confidence, call us 24/7 at 303-333-8000 or request a free consultation online today