Common Causes of Personal Injury Accidents in Denver

Aug 25, 2024

Personal injury accidents are unfortunately common in Denver, impacting countless lives every year. From car accidents to unfortunate falls, these can lead to severe consequences, including physical pain, financial strain, and emotional distress. However, by identifying the root causes, you can take legal action to claim the compensation you deserve and hold the negligent party accountable.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the most frequent causes of personal injury accidents, providing insights into how these incidents occur and what steps can be taken to address them legally and practically.

Our team of personal injury lawyers in Denver has been serving the community for decades, dealing with all types of cases. Today, we want to share our experience to help you better understand the root causes of the accident that caused you injuries and other damages.

Car Accidents: The Leading Cause of Personal Injuries in Denver

Car accidents are by far the most common source of personal injuries in Denver. In our experience, we have seen how these accidents can range from minor fender benders to devastating collisions that result in serious injuries or even fatalities.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

According to crash data provided by the Colorado Department of Transportation, the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents in 2023 include:

  • Careless driving – 29.23%: This includes behaviors such as distracted driving, speeding, and failing to observe traffic signals.
  • Failure to yield right of way (ROW) – 14.06%: Drivers who fail to yield when required often cause serious collisions, especially at intersections.
  • Following too closely – 12.31%: Tailgating increases the risk of rear-end collisions, particularly in heavy traffic or sudden stops.
  • No contributing action – 10.81%: Accidents where no specific negligent action is identified, yet a collision occurs.
  • Lane violation – 8.70%: This includes improper lane changes, drifting out of lanes, and other violations that can lead to accidents.
car accident statistics

Car accidents can upend your life in an instant, leaving you with significant injuries, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future. At Boesen Law, our experienced Denver car accident lawyers are here to help you navigate these challenging times. We understand the complexities involved in proving fault and securing fair compensation for your injuries. From the moment you reach out to us, we work tirelessly to investigate your case, gather crucial evidence, and advocate on your behalf against insurance companies and opposing parties.

Slip and Fall Accidents: More Common Than You’d Think

Slip and fall accidents are another prevalent cause of personal injuries in Denver. These incidents can happen almost anywhere—supermarkets, workplaces, public sidewalks—and often result in injuries that require medical attention.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents are typically caused by hazardous conditions that could have been prevented with proper care. Common causes include:

  • Wet or slippery surfaces: Floors that are wet from spills or cleaning activities can be extremely dangerous if not properly marked or cleaned up.
  • Uneven flooring or sidewalks: Cracked or uneven surfaces present tripping hazards that can lead to serious falls.
  • Poor lighting: Inadequate lighting in stairwells, hallways, or other areas makes it difficult to see potential hazards.
  • Obstructions: Objects left in walkways or poorly maintained premises can cause individuals to trip and fall.
  • Weather conditions: Snow, ice, or rain can make outdoor surfaces slick and hazardous.

Slip and fall accidents are not just minor incidents—they can lead to severe injuries, particularly among older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 14 million adults aged 65 and older report falling each year in the U.S., with approximately 37% of these falls resulting in injuries that require medical attention or limit daily activities. This translates to an estimated 9 million fall-related injuries annually.

Given the serious consequences of these accidents, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance if you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall.

Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries are a significant concern in Denver, particularly in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the state averages approximately 112 work-related deaths annually, which means a tragic loss of life occurs roughly every three to four days. Transportation incidents are identified as the leading cause of these fatalities, showing the inherent risks in certain job roles.

At Boesen Law, our experienced Denver workplace injury lawyers are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve. We work diligently to investigate your case, gather necessary evidence, and hold the responsible parties accountable, whether it’s an employer, equipment manufacturer, or another entity.

Other common causes of accidents include:

  • Falls from heights: Particularly common in construction, where workers are often required to work on scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops.
  • Repetitive strain injuries: These occur from performing the same motion repeatedly, often seen in manufacturing or office settings.
  • Struck by objects: Injuries resulting from falling tools, machinery, or other objects.
  • Exposure to harmful substances: Chemical burns, respiratory issues, and other injuries can occur from exposure to hazardous materials.
  • Machinery accidents: Injuries from using heavy machinery or equipment without proper safety measures.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents: The Most Vulnerable Road Users in Denver

Cyclists and pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to accidents on Denver’s busy streets. These accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for these road users compared to motor vehicles. Common causes include:

  • Driver negligence: This includes behaviors such as failure to yield, distracted driving, and speeding, which can lead to collisions with cyclists or pedestrians.
  • Inadequate crosswalks or bike lanes: Poorly marked or non-existent crosswalks and bike lanes put cyclists and pedestrians at greater risk.
  • Left turns at intersections: Drivers may fail to notice cyclists or pedestrians while making left turns, leading to accidents.
  • Doored by parked vehicles: Cyclists can be struck by car doors suddenly opened in their path.
  • Poor lighting and visibility: Accidents often occur in poorly lit areas where cyclists and pedestrians are less visible.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident or pedestrian accident, one of our specialized lawyers can provide the legal support needed to pursue compensation.

Product Liability: Injuries from Defective Products

Defective products can cause serious injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening conditions. These injuries can occur from a wide range of products, including household items, electronics, vehicles, and medical devices.

Common Causes of Product Liability Injuries

Product liability injuries often arise from defects in the design, manufacturing, or labelling of a product. Common causes include:

  • Design defects: Flaws in the product’s design make it inherently dangerous.
  • Manufacturing defects: Errors during the manufacturing process can compromise the safety of the product.
  • Failure to warn: Inadequate instructions or warnings about potential risks associated with the product.
  • Contaminated food products: Food items containing harmful substances can lead to illness or injury.
  • Defective medical devices: Medical products that fail, leading to injury or worsening of conditions.

Whether it’s a design flaw, a manufacturing error, or a failure to provide adequate warnings, these defects can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens for victims.

When dealing with product liability injuries, it’s crucial to understand that you have legal rights. Pursuing a product liability claim can be a complex process, requiring thorough investigation, expert testimony, and a deep understanding of the law.

How a Denver Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Having an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. At Boesen Law, our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, knowledgeable legal representation to victims of personal injury accidents in Denver. We understand the challenges you face and are here to guide you every step of the way.

Our track record speaks for itself—explore our case results to see how we’ve successfully helped others in similar situations. When you’re ready, contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer.