Winter Weather Car Accidents in Denver: Who’s at Fault on Icy Roads?
Colorado winters are beautiful — but they can also be dangerous. Snow, ice, and sudden storms often create hazardous driving conditions across Denver and the Front Range. Every year, winter weather contributes to hundreds of car accidents in Denver.
A common question drivers ask after a crash is: “If the road was icy, who’s at fault?” The answer depends on Colorado’s negligence laws and the circumstances of the accident. At Ferris Law Firm in Denver, CO, we help clients understand their rights after weather-related accidents and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Colorado Law: Duty of Care Doesn’t Disappear in Bad Weather
Even in poor conditions, Colorado law requires drivers to exercise “reasonable care.” That means slowing down, leaving extra space, and adjusting to conditions. Drivers can’t blame ice or snow alone for an accident. If someone was going too fast for conditions, following too closely, or failing to clear their windshield, they may still be legally responsible for a crash.
Key Point: In Denver, if a driver fails to take reasonable precautions during winter weather, they can still be found at fault for an accident.
Common Causes of Winter Accidents in Denver
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Driving Too Fast for Conditions: Even if under the speed limit, driving too quickly on icy roads can be considered negligence.
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Following Too Closely: Snow and ice increase stopping distances. Rear-end collisions are common in winter.
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Failure to Clear Snow/Ice: Colorado law requires drivers to maintain visibility. Not scraping ice or removing snow can lead to liability.
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Improper Tires or Equipment: Driving in the mountains without proper tires or chains can create legal issues if an accident occurs.
Comparative Negligence in Colorado
Colorado follows a comparative negligence rule. This means more than one driver can share fault. For example:
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Driver A is speeding on I-25 during a snowstorm.
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Driver B fails to signal a lane change.
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They collide on an icy stretch of road.
Both may share responsibility, and damages are awarded based on each driver’s percentage of fault. If you are found 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover compensation. This makes legal representation critical in contested winter accident cases.
Insurance Challenges After a Winter Accident
Insurance companies often argue that accidents in snow or ice are “nobody’s fault” — or that you caused the crash by not adjusting to conditions. Having an experienced Denver car accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected, evidence is gathered, and fault is properly established.
What to Do After a Winter Car Accident in Denver
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Call 911 – Report the accident and request police assistance.
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Get Medical Attention – Even minor injuries can worsen after a crash.
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Document the Scene – Take photos of vehicles, road conditions, and weather.
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Exchange Information – Get driver, passenger, and witness contact info.
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Avoid Admitting Fault – Even casual statements like “I couldn’t stop” can be used against you.
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Contact The Ferris Law Firm 303-377-5500 ext.306
Why Choose Ferris Law Firm for Winter Accident Cases?
At Ferris Law Firm in Denver, CO, we have experience handling auto accident claims caused by icy roads and winter conditions. We know how to:
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Investigate weather reports, road conditions, and traffic camera footage
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Work with accident reconstruction experts to prove negligence
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Handle insurance companies that try to deny winter weather claims
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Fight for full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
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Conclusion
Winter driving in Denver is challenging, but bad weather is not an excuse for negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured in an icy road accident, it’s important to understand your rights and speak with an experienced attorney.
At Ferris Law Firm in Denver, CO, we’re here to hold negligent drivers accountable and help you recover the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us today for a consultation.