Defensive Driving Tips to Prevent Accidents and Protect Yourself

In 2024, Colorado reported 684 traffic fatalities. The state’s unpredictable weather and challenging road conditions add extra hazards, but many accidents are preventable with the right approach behind the wheel. Taking proactive steps to drive defensively can be the difference between a near-miss and a serious accident.

By practicing defensive driving, you can reduce the risk of accidents, protect yourself and your passengers, and help keep roads safer for everyone. This guide will walk you through essential defensive driving techniques, legal considerations specific to Colorado, and practical steps to take if you’re involved in an accident.

If you are unsure about your options after a car accident, we invite you to get in touch with one of our car accident lawyer for a free consultation.

How Defensive Driving Helps Reduce Accident Risks

Defensive driving is about anticipating potential hazards before they arise. By reacting quickly to changing conditions, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident. 

Taking a proactive approach helps you maintain control of your vehicle, even in unpredictable situations, and minimizes the risk of serious crashes. Here are some key defensive driving tips to help keep you and others safe on the road:

Staying Focused and Avoiding Distractions

Smartphone use is the leading cause of distracted driving accidents in America. Drivers who engage with their phones are significantly more likely to miss crucial changes in traffic conditions or fail to notice pedestrians or other vehicles. To reduce distractions, consider these tips:

• Silence notifications before starting your drive.
• Use voice-activated controls to avoid taking your hands off the wheel.
• Set your GPS and entertainment options before driving.
• Pull over if you need to make an urgent call or send a message.

Keeping a Safe Following Distance

One of the simplest yet most effective defensive driving strategies is maintaining an adequate following distance from the vehicle ahead. The three-second rule helps ensure you have enough space to react if the car in front slows down or stops suddenly.

To use this rule, pick a fixed point on the road—like a sign or a tree. When the vehicle ahead passes that point, start counting: “One thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three”. 

If you reach the point before finishing the count, you’re following too closely and should increase your distance. Sudden braking in these conditions can cause jaw pain and whiplash injuries—common in rear-end accidents.

Adjusting to Road and Weather Conditions

During winter, snow, ice, and heavy rain can make road conditions unpredictable in Colorado, so adjusting your speed and driving behavior to account for decreased traction and visibility is crucial.

For instance, in snowy conditions, always ensure your vehicle is equipped with proper tires for winter driving. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to accommodate for longer stopping times.

Understanding Colorado Traffic Laws for Safer Driving

Colorado has specific regulations in place to improve road safety. Being familiar with these laws will help you stay in compliance and reduce your risk of being involved in a crash:

Speed Limits and Right-of-Way Rules

Colorado law requires drivers to maintain a reasonable and prudent speed based on road conditions. According to C.R.S. § 42-4-1101, standard limits range from 20 mph on winding mountain roads to 75 mph on highways, but local governments can enforce lower limits. 

On the other hand, right-of-way rules are also essential for reducing accidents: 

• Intersections without signals: Yield to vehicles already in the intersection or those approaching from the right.
• Merging lanes: Drivers merging onto a highway or roadway must yield to existing traffic. If two lanes merge without a clear right of way, the vehicle on the right proceeds first.
• Left turns: Drivers must yield to oncoming traffic before turning.
• Pedestrians: Pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks always have the right of way.

Colorado’s Lane Filtering Law for Motorcyclists

As of August 7, 2024, Colorado’s new lane filtering law allows motorcyclists to move between stopped vehicles under specific conditions. Traffic must be completely stopped, the road must have lanes wide enough to pass safely, and the motorcycle cannot exceed 15 mph while filtering. 

This law differs from lane splitting, where motorcyclists drive between lanes of moving traffic. Lane splitting continues to be illegal in Colorado.

How to Respond to Dangerous Situations on the Road

Defensive driving is about being prepared for the unexpected. Knowing how to respond to dangerous situations on the road can prevent accidents and reduce the severity of a collision. Here are some key strategies to follow:

Handling Sudden Braking and Hydroplaning

Sudden braking can be a natural reaction when the vehicle in front of you stops abruptly, but doing so can lead to skidding in wet conditions. To brake safely, press the brake pedal gradually, keeping your foot steady.

In the event of hydroplaning, gently release the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the car to go. This will help regain control and prevent further skidding. Always remember to avoid slamming on the brakes during these situations, as it can worsen the loss of control.

Dealing With Aggressive and Reckless Drivers

Colorado’s reckless driving laws aim to protect drivers from those who deliberately endanger others by preventing tailgating, weaving between lanes without signaling, running red lights, or engaging in other unsafe actions.

If you encounter an aggressive driver, the best course of action is to stay calm and avoid engaging with them. Don’t attempt to retaliate or match their speed. Instead, increase your following distance and, if necessary, move to a different lane to avoid potential confrontation.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Colorado

Even with the best defensive driving techniques, accidents can still occur. Here’s what you should do after a car accident to protect your health and legal rights:

• Check for injuries and call emergency services.
• Move to a safe location to avoid further collisions.
• Document the accident scene with photos, videos, and witness statements.
• File a police report to ensure the incident is officially recorded.
• Seek medical evaluation, even if you don’t feel hurt, as injuries like whiplash may not be immediately apparent.
• Consult a car accident lawyer at Boesen Law for legal guidance and assistance in securing compensation.

Stay Safe With Defensive Driving – Get in Touch With a Car Accident Lawyer in Colorado

If you’re involved in a crash, a car accident lawyer at Boesen Law can ensure all necessary steps are taken to protect your rights and help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

With decades of experience in Colorado, we have what it takes to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Plus, we don’t charge you anything unless we win your case. Schedule a free consultation with a Colorado car accident lawyer from our team today.