Top Causes of Truck Accidents in Denver You Should Know

Denver is a major transportation hub for commercial trucking in the Mountain West. With interstates like I-25, I-70, and I-76 crisscrossing the region, trucks are essential for commerce—but they also pose significant risks on the road. When something goes wrong, these large vehicles can cause devastating crashes that leave victims with serious injuries and long-term financial burdens.

If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a commercial vehicle, knowing the most common causes of truck accidents in Denver can help you better understand your legal options. In this guide, we break down the leading causes of truck crashes and how a personal injury attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous

A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—making it 20 to 30 times heavier than a typical car. When a crash involves that much force, the results can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, and even wrongful death.

Unlike ordinary car accidents, truck crashes often involve multiple parties, federal safety regulations, and complex investigations. That’s why working with an experienced injury attorney is so important. Learn more about legal help at our Colorado personal injury lawyer page.

1. Speeding and Unsafe Driving on Mountain Roads

Denver is surrounded by mountainous terrain that challenges even the most experienced truck drivers. Speeding—especially downhill—is a leading cause of runaway truck accidents. The long grades on I-70, for example, are notorious for crashes involving brake failure due to excessive speed.

When drivers ignore posted speed limits or fail to slow down for curves or weather conditions, they endanger everyone on the road.

2. Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often work long hours and face pressure to meet tight deadlines. Even though federal hours-of-service laws limit how long drivers can stay on the road without rest, violations are common.

Drowsy driving reduces alertness, reaction time, and decision-making. It’s particularly dangerous on Denver-area highways where long stretches of road can lull tired drivers into microsleep episodes.

3. Distracted Driving

Distraction is a leading cause of crashes among all drivers, and truckers are no exception. Common distractions include:

• Texting or using a smartphone
• Adjusting GPS or dispatch systems
• Eating or drinking
• Looking at paperwork or delivery instructions

A distracted truck driver operating a multi-ton vehicle can cause massive damage in just seconds. These crashes frequently occur in busy corridors like I-25 through downtown or US-36 toward Boulder.

4. Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Trucking companies are required by federal law to inspect and maintain their vehicles. But not all companies follow those rules consistently. When brakes, tires, lights, or other components fail, the consequences can be deadly.

Typical maintenance-related issues include:

• Brake failure on steep grades
• Tire blowouts on high-speed roads
• Steering or suspension malfunctions
• Faulty trailer coupling

A skilled attorney can obtain maintenance records to determine whether the crash could have been prevented with proper upkeep.

5. Improper Cargo Loading

If cargo is loaded improperly, it can shift during travel and make the truck unstable. This can lead to:

• Rollovers
• Jackknife accidents
• Spilled cargo blocking traffic

Loading errors are often the fault of third-party freight companies or warehouse teams—who may be held liable if their negligence caused the crash.

6. Inexperienced or Undertrained Drivers

Denver’s road conditions—including mountain highways, construction zones, and dense city streets—require experienced drivers. When a trucking company hires inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers, the risk of a crash increases dramatically.

Lack of training can lead to:

• Overcorrection in emergencies
• Poor use of engine brakes
• Inability to navigate tight urban areas
• Misjudging stopping distances

Employers may be liable for negligent hiring or supervision in these cases.

7. Driving Under the Influence

Truck drivers are held to stricter standards for drug and alcohol use. Unfortunately, impaired driving still plays a role in some of the most serious truck crashes.

This can include:

• Alcohol
• Illegal drugs
• Prescription medications that impair coordination or focus
• Over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness

Victims of DUI-related crashes may be entitled to punitive damages, in addition to compensation for their physical and emotional suffering.

For more on DUI and commercial driver regulation, see the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, which tracks violations and compliance for commercial drivers.

Who Is Liable in a Truck Accident?

In many truck crash cases, more than one party may be responsible. This may include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company or carrier
• A third-party maintenance provider
• A freight loading company
• A manufacturer (if a defective part contributed)

Your Denver truck accident lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties and hold them accountable.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Denver

Taking the right steps after a crash can make a big difference in your recovery and your legal claim:

1. Call 911 and report the crash to law enforcement.
2. Get medical treatment—even if you don’t feel injured right away.
3. Document the scene with photos and videos.
4. Exchange information with the truck driver and get contact details for witnesses.
5. Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before contacting a lawyer.
6. Reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

An experienced attorney will gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and preserve key information like black box data and maintenance logs.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of truck crashes in Denver may be entitled to significant compensation for:

Economic Damages:

• Emergency room visits and hospital stays
• Surgeries and follow-up care
• Physical therapy or rehab
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement or permanent disability

Punitive Damages:

These may be awarded in cases of gross negligence, such as DUI, repeated safety violations, or deliberate disregard for federal regulations.

How Long Do You Have to File in Colorado?

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for truck accident claims is typically three years from the date of the crash. However, evidence like black box data, driver logs, and surveillance footage can be lost much sooner.

Speak with an attorney early to protect your rights and avoid missing important deadlines.

Why Choose Zinda Law Group?

Zinda Law Group is a nationally recognized personal injury law firm with a proven track record in trucking accident litigation. When you hire us, you get:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win your case
• Access to expert witnesses and crash investigators
• Trial-tested attorneys who know how to fight for maximum compensation
• Compassionate, client-focused service from start to finish

Our firm is led by Jack Zinda, a nationally recognized trial attorney who has handled thousands of complex injury cases.

Speak With a Denver Truck Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a large commercial truck, don’t wait to get help. Understanding the causes of truck accidents in Denver is just the beginning. Our attorneys are ready to help you pursue justice and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today.