Most states have several initiatives designed to educate drivers about the potential consequences of distracted or drunk driving. Despite these initiatives, 2015 saw an increase in the number of fatal car accidents in Colorado. These accidents, often preventable, leave families wondering how they will cope with life without their loved ones.
The Colorado Department of Transportation has recently issued a report regarding 2015 fatalities. According to its statistics, 545 people were killed in car accidents in 2015. In 2014, 488 people were killed. These numbers indicate a 10 percent increase in the number of fatalities, even though the state had previously experienced a decrease in the number of fatalities over the last several years.
A representative for Drive Smart Colorado has expressed surprise regarding these numbers and warns that many accidents are caused as a result of negligent driver behavior. For example, over 30 percent of fatal accidents involved driving under the influence of alcohol. Some speculate that the increase in fatalities may be due to distracted drivers, as well as more drivers on the road due to low gas prices and an increase in Colorado’s population.
Denver County ranks at the top among Colorado counties for fatalities with 49 people killed in 2015. In addition to coping with the emotional ramifications caused by fatal car accidents, the families of many deceased victims also find themselves struggling with their financial states as a result of lost wages and funeral expenses. To cope with these, some seek the advice of attorneys with experience with personal injury cases to better understand their legal options. When it can be proved in civil court that the loss of a loved one was caused by another’s negligence, the court could order the responsible party to pay damages to help cope with related expenses.
Source: koaa.com, “Traffic deaths on Colorado roads jump 10 percent in 2015“, Maddie Garrett, Jan. 19, 2016
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