Colorado Law Blog

Car Crashes and Bad Weather - Some Driving Tips

21 Jan, 2008  No Comment

Auto Accidents and Some Tips on Driving in Snow and Ice 

The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all.  Certainly, wait until the snow plows have had a chance to plow and treat the road.  Make sure that you allow yourself extra time to reach your destination.   The National Safety Council has some useful tips for driving safely on icy roads:

• Slow down, and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you. 

• Brake lightly to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.  

• Turn on your lights so that other motorists can see you. 
• Clean your lights and windshield. 
• Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills. 
• Don’t use cruise control. 
• Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and less well- traveled roads 

• Don’t pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you’re likely to find worse conditions on the road in front of the plow. 

• Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front- wheel drive cars can get out of control.

Young Drivers and Tragic Automobile Accidents

18 Jan, 2008  No Comment

Every year, too many young drivers are killed in auto accidents.  Of the 96 teens killed in 2004, 65.6 percent were not using seat belts. Of the unrestrained victims, 71% were ejected from their vehicle and died.

This video has helpful information to keep young drivers safe.

Auto - Pedestrian Accidents

15 Oct, 2007  No Comment

This week, Colorado saw too many pedestrian - automobile accidents on highways.  On October 14, 2007, two pedestrians were hit while attempting to walk from a wreck on Interstate 25 in Lone Tree.  One person in the car got out to inspect the damage and was injured when a second vehicle collided with the stopped vehicle, according to Lone Tree police. One of the pedestrians died today.  Last week two Colorado State Patrol troopers were hit by a pickup that slid into them while they helped a motorist on a highway.  Trooper Zach Templeton died from his injuries Friday evening.

What Should You Do If You’re In Accident On The Highway Or Your Car Breaks Down?

Having your car break down on the highway is frightening.  So what should you do?  Here are some suggestions:

Car Breaks Down Or You Have An Accident & You Can’t Get Over To The Shoulder

Police officers advise that when they have had to stop with a police car in an active lane, officers don’t put the vehicle in park. Instead, they sit with the brake on and carefully watch the rear view mirror ”because we get hit all the time.” If it looks like someone’s coming, you can take evasive action.  Every situation will be different in terms of location, weather and traffic flow, but if you can, police officers suggest that you find a safe place outside your vehicle to wait.

Your Car Breaks Down & You’re On The Shoulder

No matter what time of day it is, or how busy the road, you should never get out of your vehicle. Your best bet is to call a tow truck. Tow trucks can block the highway behind you.  Don’t be afraid to call 911.  You should never open your car door or window to a stranger, especially if you’re a female motorist.

When Is It Safe To Change A Flat Tire?

If you get a flat and you’re on the side of the highway, is it safe to change the tire?

Only if the distance between where the vehicle is, as far as the tire change, does not afford you in any way being an obstruction to a live lane of traffic.”  If you are close to the white line, forget changing the tire.  The preference is that you stay in your car, turn the hazard lights on, and call 911.  If you don’t have a cell phone, place a ‘Call Help’ or ‘Call Police’ sign in your window. Those placards can be purchased at most hardware stores, or you can make one and keep it in your car for emergencies.