Why Does Larimer County Rank High for State Traffic Deaths?

 Posted on January 05, 2026 in Car Accident

If you live or drive in Larimer County, Colorado, it may feel like deadly crashes happen all the time. The reality is auto accidents are frequent in this part of the state, mainly because of the dangerous roadways. In fact, Larimer County ranks high for traffic deaths compared to many other parts of Colorado.

For example, in October 2025, a head-on collision on Highway 287 killed two drivers. A month later, a 20-year-old woman from Evans was killed after her vehicle crashed into a canal in Larimer County.

A Larimer County, CO personal injury lawyer can help explain why these crashes happen and what they may mean if you or a loved one is injured.

Which Roads in Larimer County See the Most Serious Crashes?

Some roads in Larimer County are linked to more severe and fatal crashes. These roads often have higher speed limits or heavy traffic. Problem areas often include:

• Highway 287, which runs through both rural and city areas

• Interstate 25, which carries commuters and large trucks

• Rural county roads with little lighting or narrow shoulders

Crashes on these roads are more likely to involve high speeds or head-on impacts, which can often lead to severe injuries or death.

How Do Rural Roads Increase the Risk of Fatal Crashes in Larimer County?

Large parts of Larimer County are rural. Rural roads usually have higher speed limits and fewer traffic controls, like stoplights or divided lanes.

Higher speeds mean harder impacts during crashes. Emergency help may also take longer to arrive in rural areas. Both factors can increase the chance that a crash becomes fatal.

What Driving Behaviors Contribute Most to Fatal Accidents?

Many fatal crashes involve risky driving choices. These behaviors are often identified during crash investigations. Common factors include:

• Speeding

• Driving after drinking alcohol or using drugs

• Distracted driving, such as using a cellphone

• Not wearing a seat belt

On fast roads, these behaviors greatly increase the risk of death when a crash happens.

How Do Pedestrians and Cyclists Factor Into Larimer County Traffic Deaths?

Not all traffic deaths involve people inside vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists are at much higher risk when they are hit by cars or trucks.

Larimer County has busy roads, bike routes, and rural highways without sidewalks or protected crossings. This can force walkers and cyclists to share space with fast-moving traffic.

Are Traffic Safety Efforts Helping Reduce Deaths?

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, traffic deaths through mid-April 2025 were down about 21 percent statewide compared to the same time the year before. The drop included fewer deaths related to speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving. These are some of the most common causes of fatal crashes.

Officials credit stronger enforcement, safety campaigns, and laws that limit handheld cellphone use while driving. Even with this progress, local factors still cause serious crashes in the area.

How Do You File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Crash in Larimer County?

When a traffic crash results in a death, certain family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim. This type of claim is separate from any criminal investigation and focuses on holding the at-fault party financially responsible for the loss.

In Colorado, wrongful death claims are governed by Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-202, which explains who may file a claim and when. In most cases, a spouse has the first right to file. Children or parents may be able to file depending on the family situation and the timing of the claim.

A wrongful death claim may seek compensation for losses such as:

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Medical bills related to the final injury

• Lost income and financial support the victim would have provided

• Loss of companionship, care, and emotional support

These cases often rely on crash reports, witness statements, and medical records to show how the collision happened and who caused it. 

Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Fort Collins, CO Personal Injury Attorney

At Hoggatt Law Office, P.C., clients receive guidance based on real involvement in injury law. Attorney Darby Hoggatt is a member of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association and the Workers’ Compensation Education Association. These memberships reflect ongoing analysis of injury and compensation issues that often follow serious crashes. If you or a loved one were injured in a serious accident, we can help.

Call 970-225-2190 to schedule a free consultation with our Larimer County, CO personal injury lawyer today. Se Habla Español.