Top Causes of Truck Accidents in Denver

With major trucking routes like I-70 and I-25 running through the metro area, Denver sees its fair share of large commercial vehicles on the road. From steep grades to unpredictable weather and congested interstates, the city presents numerous risks for crashes involving 18-wheelers and delivery trucks.

Unfortunately, truck accidents in Denver often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of these vehicles. If you’ve been hurt in a trucking crash, understanding the top causes can help you protect your rights and determine who may be held liable.

Why Truck Crashes in Denver Are Especially Dangerous

The combination of high elevation, heavy interstate traffic, frequent construction, and variable weather makes Denver a unique risk environment for truck drivers—and everyone who shares the road with them.

When truck drivers or trucking companies fail to follow safety regulations, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you’re injured in a crash, an experienced attorney can help you identify the cause and hold negligent parties accountable.

1. Speeding on Mountain Grades

Trucks speeding downhill in the mountains is a well-known danger in Colorado. Long descents on I-70 west of Denver test the limits of braking systems and driver skill. When drivers exceed posted speed limits on grades, they risk losing control and causing devastating collisions.

Even within the city, trucks that fail to slow down in high-traffic areas like I-25 near downtown or construction zones along US-36 pose a major risk.

2. Brake Failure or Poor Maintenance

Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance. When companies cut corners, critical systems like brakes, tires, or lights may fail at the worst possible moment.

Common maintenance-related failures include:

• Brake malfunctions
• Tire blowouts
• Faulty steering systems
• Broken tail lights or turn signals

A lawyer can investigate inspection logs, maintenance records, and regulatory compliance to determine if poor maintenance caused your crash.

3. Distracted Driving

Truckers spend hours behind the wheel, which makes distraction a constant risk. Common distractions include:

• Texting or phone use
• GPS or in-cab computer adjustments
• Eating or drinking
• Dispatch communications

Even a few seconds of inattention is enough to cause a collision—especially when the vehicle involved weighs 20 to 30 times more than a passenger car.

4. Driver Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck accidents nationwide. Long-haul drivers may exceed federally mandated hours-of-service limits or fail to take required breaks, increasing the risk of a crash.

In Denver, fatigue-related incidents often occur on I-76, I-25, and other long-distance corridors. Fatigued drivers may drift out of lanes, react too slowly, or fall asleep behind the wheel.

5. Improper Cargo Loading

Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can cause a truck to tip, jackknife, or lose control. In some cases, freight can even fall onto the road, endangering other drivers.

Cargo-related accidents may involve:

• Improper weight distribution
• Lack of proper securing equipment
• Overloaded trailers
• Dangerous or flammable materials

Liability may fall on a third-party freight or loading company in addition to the driver or carrier.

6. Weather and Road Conditions

Denver’s winters can bring snow, ice, fog, and sudden weather shifts that make driving hazardous. While weather alone isn’t always grounds for liability, drivers are required to adjust their behavior to road conditions.

Failing to reduce speed, increase following distance, or chain tires when necessary can make a driver or company responsible for resulting injuries.

You can find more information about commercial truck safety expectations in Colorado at the FMCSA, which governs road condition standards.

7. Inexperienced or Undertrained Drivers

Colorado’s booming freight demand sometimes results in companies hiring underqualified drivers. Without proper training, drivers may struggle with:

• Navigating steep inclines or sharp turns
• Merging or changing lanes safely
• Performing emergency stops
• Understanding local traffic laws

If a trucking company skips vetting or training procedures, they can be held liable for negligent hiring or supervision.

8. Driving Under the Influence

Commercial drivers are subject to strict drug and alcohol regulations. Unfortunately, DUI still contributes to serious trucking crashes.

This can involve:

• Alcohol
• Illegal drugs
• Prescription medication that causes drowsiness
• Over-the-counter medications that impair driving

Victims of DUI-related truck crashes may be entitled to punitive damages, in addition to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress.

Who’s Liable in a Denver Truck Accident?

Unlike regular car crashes, truck accidents often involve multiple potentially liable parties:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• A third-party cargo handler
• A mechanic or maintenance company
• The vehicle or parts manufacturer

A skilled attorney can identify each party’s role and pursue compensation from all available sources. For more information on Colorado-based injury representation, visit our Denver truck accident lawyer page.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Denver

Here are the key steps to take after a collision:

1. Call 911 and report the accident to law enforcement.
2. Seek immediate medical care, even for mild symptoms.
3. Take photos and video of the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
4. Exchange contact and insurance info with the driver.
5. Get witness information and document their accounts, if possible.
6. Contact a truck accident lawyer to begin your claim and protect your rights.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you’ve been hurt in a Denver truck crash, you may be entitled to:

Economic Damages:

• Emergency and hospital bills
• Follow-up care, surgeries, and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and reduced future earning ability
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disfigurement or disability

Punitive Damages:

In cases involving reckless conduct—such as speeding through a snowstorm or driving under the influence—punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

How Long Do You Have to File?

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck crashes, is typically three years from the date of the accident. However, critical evidence like driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records can be lost much sooner.

That’s why contacting a lawyer early is essential.

Why Choose Zinda Law Group?

Zinda Law Group is a nationally recognized personal injury law firm with extensive experience in truck accident litigation. When you hire our team, you receive:

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Access to experts and investigators
• Trial-ready representation
• Compassionate client service every step of the way

Led by Jack Zinda, our firm fights for victims injured by the negligence of truck drivers, companies, and contractors.

Talk to a Denver Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. An attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.

Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free consultation with a Denver truck accident lawyer today.