December DUI Dangers on Denver Roads
When Festivities Turn Dangerous
December should be a month of celebrations, not collisions. Yet Denver consistently sees more DUI-related crashes during holiday weeks than almost any other time of year. Parties run late, drinks flow freely, roads get slick, and people try to “make it home” when they shouldn’t.
One woman said she felt perfectly fine to drive after a small holiday gathering, only to realize later that cold weather and fatigue made her impairment hit harder than she thought. She didn’t crash, but her story is painfully common.
Why December DUI Crashes Spike
- More gatherings and events
- Lower temperatures amplify alcohol’s effects
- Reduced daylight impacts reaction time
- Holiday travel increases late-night driving
- People underestimate how tired they really are
Even a small amount of alcohol can become dangerous when mixed with icy roads and limited visibility.
The Harsh Reality for DUI Victims
DUI crashes are violent because impaired drivers often don’t brake or swerve in time. Victims can face long recoveries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship during a time of year that’s supposed to feel joyful.
Many victims also blame themselves at first, thinking they “should’ve seen it coming,” but impaired-driver collisions are rarely avoidable.
How Colorado Handles DUI-Related Collisions
If a driver was impaired, fault is usually clear. But insurance companies may still resist paying full compensation, especially when medical bills rise quickly or injuries worsen in cold weather.
Colorado law allows injury victims to pursue damages for:
- Medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Long-term complications
Even when liability seems obvious, the claims process can still be exhausting without support.
What to Do After a Suspected DUI Crash
- Call police immediately
- Get checked by medical professionals
- Document statements or odd behavior
- Avoid arguing with the other driver
- Call a lawyer before speaking with insurance
DUI cases can be emotionally draining, especially around the holidays, and you shouldn’t have to navigate it all alone.
Support After a December DUI Accident
If an impaired driver turned your December upside-down, you deserve clarity and support.
Call 720-928-9178 for a free consultation with Flanagan Law. We’ll help protect your rights, explain your options, and fight for the recovery you need to get life back on track.
FAQs
Does alcohol affect drivers more in cold weather?
Yes. Cold temperatures slow circulation and can make alcohol impair judgment and coordination faster than people expect.
Why do DUI crashes often cause more severe injuries?
Impaired drivers react slower and fail to brake in time, leading to higher-impact collisions.
Can prescription medications contribute to December DUI crashes?
They can. Some medications intensify impairment when mixed with cold, darkness, or even mild alcohol consumption.
Do Denver police increase DUI patrols in December?
Yes. Holiday enforcement efforts rise, especially on weekends and around major celebrations.
Are DUI crashes more common near downtown Denver?
Traffic density and nightlife make central areas see more late-night DUI incidents, particularly on weekends.
Can I still recover damages if the impaired driver fled the scene?
Possibly. Uninsured motorist coverage and other tools may help victims recover even when the driver isn’t identified quickly.
How long do DUI-related injury claims usually take?
They vary widely, but holiday-season claims may take longer due to medical evaluations, police reports, and insurance delays.
