Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is life changing. It only takes one negligent driver on the road to cause massive damage and heartache. The Colorado State Patrol investigates a majority of fatal car accidents to determine the cause and to reduce future fatalities. Some of the top contributors to fatal car accidents in Colorado include:

• Speeding
• Drunk driving
• Lane violations
• Failing to yield the right of way

Distracted drivers are a major threat to motorists

Lane violations and a failure to yield the right of way are considered aggressive driving. Other examples of aggressive drivers include failing to stop, driving on the wrong side of the road and improper passing. While aggression, speeding and drunken driving pose major threats to Colorado motorists, the biggest contributor to freeway deaths are distracted drivers. Distracted drivers are found to cause 20 percent of traffic fatalities in Colorado.

Not long ago distracted driving was caused by texting, but now distracted drivers can be doing a number of unnecessary tasks. As you cruise down the road it is easy to spot drivers eating a snack, finishing their makeup, and even reading. The newest and most dangerous cause of distraction behind the wheel is smartphone apps. Both last year and the year before have shown an alarming jump in traffic fatalities, and safety analysts are blaming the growing popularity of smartphone apps.

Texting and driving is no longer the biggest problem

As more drivers acquire smartphones, a higher number of people are absent-mindedly checking them while driving. Drivers both young and old are giving into notification temptation – checking their Facebook, writing a Tweet, or reading the news. While a moment of boredom at a stoplight might tempt you to check your phone, it is best to keep the device down.

Anyone who has been hit or who has had a loved one hit by a distracted driver can tell you that checking your phone is not worth it. Distracted driver-related accidents can cause thousands in vehicle damage, hospital bills and anguish of loved ones. It is best to keep everyone on the road safe and check your notifications later.