Denver Car Accident Statistics You Should Know for 2025
According to the most recent data from the Colorado Department of Transportation, Denver recorded 15,701 motor vehicle crashes in the last year, resulting in over 5,500 injuries and 62 fatalities, many of which could have been prevented. Our law firm assists victims of these accidents daily, and our Denver car accident lawyers have analyzed the latest crash data to highlight the most significant safety risks for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists in 2025.
The following breakdown offers insights into the most frequent crash types, who’s most vulnerable, and why these numbers matter in both personal injury claims and broader public safety discussions.
Types of Motor Vehicle Crashes in Denver (2024)
Breakdown of crash types and contributing factors in Denver
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Rear-end collisions Were the Most Common Crash Type in Denver Last Year
Rear-end accidents made up 27.83% of all traffic collisions in Denver during 2024. These crashes often happen in heavy traffic, at stoplights, or during sudden slowdowns. While they’re frequently seen as minor, rear-end collisions can lead to serious soft tissue injuries, especially when victims are unprepared or have preexisting conditions.
Whether it’s whiplash, herniated discs, or post-concussion symptoms, these injuries often don’t show up right away, which is why it’s important to seek immediate medical attention and document every symptom thoroughly.
Broadside and Sideswipe Crashes Made Up Over a Third of All Denver Collisions
T-bone crashes and side swipes are also widespread. According to 2024 data:
- Broadside collisions accounted for 17.97% of all Denver crashes.
- Same direction sideswipe crashes made up 16.57%.
Together, these account for more than one in three reported accidents. Broadside collisions typically happen at intersections and often involve right-of-way disputes, while sideswipes are common in lane-change scenarios or when a driver drifts into another lane without checking blind spots.
More Than 1 in 10 Crashes in Denver Involved a Parked Vehicle
It might seem surprising, but 12.8% of all 2024 crashes involved a parked vehicle. These collisions often happen on narrow residential streets, busy curbside zones, or parking lots where visibility is limited and drivers may be distracted or maneuvering in tight spaces. Common causes include backing out without checking blind spots, turning too sharply into driveways, or misjudging clearance near parked cars.
While these incidents are sometimes dismissed as low-impact property damage, they can lead to more serious outcomes. Pedestrians and vehicle occupants may be injured if they are entering or exiting the vehicle when it’s struck, or if the impact forces the parked car into another person or object. Even at low speeds, these collisions can cause concussions, neck strain, or broken bones, particularly for children and elderly individuals.
Pedestrians Were Involved in Nearly 4% of All Traffic Crashes
In 2024, 590 crashes in Denver involved pedestrians, representing nearly 4% of all accidents. These cases are among the most serious because of the sheer vulnerability of people on foot. Crosswalk visibility, failure to yield, and speeding in urban areas are leading contributors.
Victims often suffer long-term injuries or fatalities. As pedestrian accident lawyers, we’ve witnessed the devastating impact of these accidents and recently secured a $390,000 settlement for a man who was struck by a car that ran a stop sign while he was crossing the street.
Only 6% of Crashes Involved Confirmed Alcohol Use but the True Number May Be Higher
Denver data shows that alcohol was confirmed in 6.02% of crashes but keep in mind that some cases listed alcohol status as “Unknown,” and not all impaired driving incidents result in immediate testing. Some drivers may refuse tests or avoid detection due to lack of obvious symptoms.
When alcohol is suspected but not clearly documented, toxicology results, witness reports, and driving behavior become key factors in assessing fault.
63 Fatal Crashes Were Reported in Denver in 2024
Fatal crashes are thankfully rare, but 62 deaths were recorded in Denver in 2024, a significant toll that underscores the stakes of safe driving and effective enforcement. Many of these crashes involved high-speed impact, poor visibility at intersections, or pedestrian involvement.
In fatal accident cases, thorough investigation is often required to understand contributing factors like traffic signal timing, driver behavior, and road conditions. These crashes often lead to wrongful death claims, which may involve recovering compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional loss for surviving family members.
Bicycle and E-Bike Riders Were Involved in Nearly 2% of All Crashes
Denver’s growing bike community saw 264 crashes involving bicycles or e-bikes, or nearly 2% of the total in 2024. As more residents turn to micromobility for commuting or recreation, bike lanes and safety enforcement are increasingly critical.
Victims in these cases often face insurance complications, especially when the at-fault driver flees the scene or doesn’t carry sufficient coverage.
Denver Recorded More Than 15,700 Total Car Crashes in 2024
Altogether, 15,701 car accidents were reported across Denver last year. With over 5,500 people injured, the city’s roads remain a daily hazard for commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. These injuries range from broken bones and head trauma to spinal damage and chronic pain, and often require long-term treatment or lead to temporary or permanent disability.
In addition to the physical toll, many victims suffer property damage, lost income, or emotional distress. These are all factors we consider when helping our clients pursue full compensation.
Have Questions About Your Denver Car Accident? Contact Boesen Law
If you or a loved one has been in a Denver car accident, our attorneys offer decades of experience with personal injury claims—from rear-end crashes to fatal collisions. We’ve secured millions in motor vehicle accident settlements, including results over $4 million, by building compelling cases supported by evidence, expert analysis, and thorough knowledge of Colorado law.
We offer free consultations, and there are no fees unless we win. To speak with a Denver car accident attorney, contact Boesen Law today and schedule your free case evaluation.
Call (303) 999-9999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
