For many travelers, Colorado is the dream vacation destination. In the winter months, visitors are able to enjoy some of the best skiing in the world atop the most majestic mountains. In the summer, the vistas that surround the Rocky Mountains cannot be beat. People hailing from across the globe set their sights on Colorado in hopes of hiking through the rugged trails that lead to the most breathtaking views.
These same visitors, however, are forced to navigate through the Colorado highways to get to their destinations. Driving in an unfamiliar state, usually in a vehicle that is not their own, can be stressful and frustrating. These visitors are sharing the road with local drivers who are comfortable with the winding highways and the high altitude levels.
While it's important for visitors to remain alert at all times while driving in Denver -- and it's critical that they avoid distractions while driving -- it also can be helpful to recognize that there are some stretches of highway that are worse than others. In Denver, the most dangerous highways to drive on are I-25 and I-70.
Know the Dangers of I-25
Recent data analysis revealed that the most dangerous stretch of highway in Denver is along I-25, according to a report published by 7NEWS in Denver. Specifically, the section of the highway between Sante Fe, New Mexico and I-70 in Denver, Colorado is the most dangerous stretch of the road. It is imperative that drivers, especially visitors, who are on this highway remain vigilant.
In 2009, there were more than 970 crashes along this specific stretch of highway, making it the most dangerous highway in the city. Law enforcement officials were not surprised by this figure, though, because it is also one of the busiest stretches of highway in Denver. Approximately 250,000 vehicles utilize that stretch of I-25 on a daily basis, which naturally increases the risk of getting into an accident. Many of these travelers are busy commuters, who are often trying to multi-task while driving.
Identify Increased Risks on I-70
While I-25 may have nabbed the title for the most dangerous stretch of highway in Denver, I-70 follows close behind. Stretching through the heart of the city and intersecting with the ever-busy I-25, there's constantly reports in the news of motor vehicle accidents on I-70. These accidents can be quite severe, depending on the types of vehicles involved and the location of the accident.
In 2017 alone, there have already been several severe crashes on I-70 in Denver. In April, during a late season snowstorm, two semitrucks collided on I-70 near Beaver Brook. One truck had jackknifed as a result of the icy conditions on the roadways, while the other semi-truck hit it because it could not stop in time. The crash forced law enforcement officials to close the highway, and hazardous materials professionals were called to clean up a fuel spill. Fortunately, the drivers suffered only minor injuries.
In June, a wrong-way driver along I-70 collided with another vehicle, which had children in the car. The accident resulted in a fiery crash, which could have quickly led to fatalities if it weren't for the quick-thinking witnesses who transformed into heroes. Both of these incidents highlight the very real risks of driving along I-70, and they reinforce the need for visitors to take extra precautions while driving on vacation.
What to Do in the Event of an Accident on a Denver Highway
In the event that you or a loved one is injured in a car accident while visiting Colorado, it's important that you seek legal counsel from an experienced local attorney. A Denver attorney who understands the local ordinances as well as the personal injury laws in Colorado can give you the assistance you need to make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve during this difficult time. Nobody imagines that they will end up in a car accident while enjoying a fun-filled vacation, but this is an unfortunate reality for many Colorado visitors.
To learn more about personal injury law in Colorado, contact our law firm today to set up a consultation appointment.
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