How Winter Weather in Colorado Springs Impacts Road Safety and Accident Claims
By Michael M. Clawson, Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer
Winter in Colorado Springs brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that can turn even familiar roads into hazards. Many drivers underestimate how quickly conditions change, leading to car accidents, slips, and other injuries. Understanding how winter weather impacts accidents—and subsequent claims—can help you protect your rights.
Winter Road Hazards in Colorado Springs
Winter weather introduces unique dangers:
- Snow-covered roads reduce traction, making stopping distances much longer.
- Black ice is nearly invisible but extremely slippery, causing vehicles to slide unexpectedly.
- Reduced visibility during snowstorms increases the chance of collisions.
- Potholes hidden under snow can cause damage to tires, suspension, and control.
Even careful drivers can fall victim to these hazards. A client of ours slid on black ice near Garden of the Gods, leading to a rear-end collision. Despite driving below the speed limit, the insurance company initially tried to claim partial fault.
How Fault Is Determined in Winter Accidents
Winter accidents can complicate fault determination. Colorado follows comparative negligence, meaning liability can be shared. Key factors insurers and courts consider:
- Vehicle speed relative to road conditions
- Whether the driver maintained a safe following distance
- Weather warnings or advisories in effect at the time
- Driver actions like sudden lane changes or distracted driving
Even if conditions were icy, drivers are still expected to exercise reasonable care. A Colorado Springs car accident lawyer can help show that the accident wasn’t your fault, even in slippery conditions.
Common Injuries From Winter Accidents
Winter crashes often lead to injuries that aren’t immediately obvious:
- Whiplash and neck injuries from rear-end collisions
- Slips and falls on icy sidewalks or parking lots
- Broken bones or sprains from losing control on ice
- Head injuries from collisions with vehicles or stationary objects
Prompt medical attention not only protects your health but also strengthens any personal injury claim.
Insurance Challenges in Winter Claims
Insurance companies may try to reduce payouts by arguing:
- “Poor weather contributed equally to the accident”
- “You should have driven slower”
- “Injuries are minor compared to vehicle damage”
Having documentation—photos, witness statements, and medical records—can make a big difference. A Colorado personal injury attorney knows how to counter these tactics and ensure you’re treated fairly.
Tips to Protect Your Claim in Winter
- Always take photos of the accident scene, including road conditions.
- Seek medical care immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document any missed work or ongoing pain caused by the accident.
- Contact a Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer before speaking to the insurance company.
Winter may be beautiful in Colorado, but it also comes with serious road risks. Taking the right steps after an accident can protect your safety and your financial recovery.
If you’ve been injured in a winter accident in Colorado Springs, contact Clawson & Clawson today. Our experienced attorneys can review your case, help you gather evidence, and guide you through the claims process.
At Clawson & Clawson, we’ve helped clients across Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Denver recover millions in compensation — and we’re ready to fight for you.
Call us today at 719-634-1848 for a free consultation. We’ll explain your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and help you get the care you need without financial stress.
We don’t get paid unless we win for you.
Michael M. Clawson | Colorado Personal Injury Attorney
Colorado Springs Office: (719) 634-1848
Denver Metro & Front Range Office: (303) 805-9853
Email: Michael@clawsonattorney.com
Legal Disclaimer- This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content or contacting the attorney does not create an attorney-client relationship. Legal decisions and outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case. Colorado laws may change, and you should consult a licensed attorney for advice tailored to your circumstances. No guarantee is made regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided.