Colorado’s natural beauty and abundance become more vibrant as fall arrives in the state. The picturesque landscapes offer a stunning backdrop to residents and visitors. However, the fall season brings increased risks to drivers and wildlife during migrations that come with the change of weather.
Wildlife collisions become common in the fall because animals are on the move. This migration poses a risk to motorists. While many wildlife collisions are minor, some can cause injuries or result in severe vehicle damage. In such cases, legal guidance from a Fort Collins accident lawyer can be crucial in navigating the aftermath of these incidents. An experienced lawyer can help accident victims navigate the complexities of insurance disputes, determine liability, and pursue compensation for damages caused by wildlife-related accidents.
Why Wildlife Collisions Increase in Fall
Fall Migration Patterns
As winter approaches, Colorado’s wildlife, including deer and elk, begin their seasonal fall migration to search for food and water. The increased movement across roads and highways puts drivers at a higher risk of encountering an animal on the road. They often end up crossing busy roads when traveling through forests, fields, and urban areas.

Breeding Season (The “Rut”)
The “rut” refers to the peak of the breeding season for deer and elk. During this season, animals are focused on finding mates. Instead of paying attention to their surroundings, they become more active and less cautious. This heightened activity in the fall makes wildlife more likely to wander onto roadways and be unaware of their surroundings. The risk of accidents increases during the fall breeding season because of the increased mating activity.
Time of Day and Light Conditions
During fall, daylight hours are shorter. Dusk and dawn are the most active times for wildlife movement. At the same time, dusk and dawn are the times when visibility for drivers is the lowest. There’s a combination of low light, longer shadows, and increased wildlife movement that makes these hours more difficult for drivers to spot animals and avoid collisions. While the daylight hours are shorter in the fall, these conditions contribute to a rise in wildlife accidents.
Colorado’s Hotspots for Wildlife Accidents
Mountain and Rural Roads
Wildlife collisions are most common along mountain and rural roads in Colorado, especially in areas surrounding the Rocky Mountains. These regions are home to large populations of deer, elk, and other wildlife, which regularly cross highways and roads. Drivers traveling through these scenic areas should be particularly cautious, as wildlife crossings are more frequent due to the animals’ natural habitats and migration paths cutting through these routes. If you’re planning a roadtrip through the Rockies get some ideas for your adventure and tips for safe travel.
Mountain and Rural Roads
Wildlife collisions are the most common along mountain and rural roads. There are plenty in Colorado, especially in areas surrounding the Rockies. Large populations of deer, elk, and other wildlife regularly cross highways and roads in these regions. When traveling through scenic Colorado areas, drivers should be particularly cautious about wildlife crossings.
Front Range and Fort Collins Area
Wildlife accidents are prevalent closer to the Front Range, including the Fort Collins area. In this area, where urban development is close to the natural landscape, there is potential for wildlife collisions. The stretch of roadways near Fort Collins sees a higher-than-average number of animal-related accidents during the fall.
Preventing Wildlife Collisions
Driving Tips to Avoid Accidents
Reduce speed in areas with wildlife crossing signs: These signs are often placed in high-risk areas where animals frequently cross. Slowing down gives drivers more time to react if an animal appears.
Use high beams at night when safe: High beams increase visibility and can help you spot animals on or near the road from a greater distance. Just be sure to dim them when approaching other vehicles.
Stay alert during high-risk times: Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk, so it’s crucial to be especially vigilant during these times when visibility is lower and animals are more likely to be on the move.
What to Do if a Collision Is Inevitable
Brake firmly: If you see an animal in your path, slow down as much as possible by braking firmly. This reduces the force of impact, should a collision occur.
Avoid swerving: Swerving to miss an animal can lead to more dangerous outcomes, such as losing control of your vehicle or crashing into another car or obstacle. It’s generally safer to brake and stay in your lane, even if a collision occurs.
Taking these steps can help minimize the risk of serious injuries and vehicle damage in the event of a wildlife collision. Learn about Colorado’s wildlife safety guidelines from the USDA Forest Service.
Legal Considerations After a Wildlife Accident
Insurance Claims
When it comes to wildlife accidents, insurance claims can be more complex than they seem. While many car insurance policies cover collisions with animals under comprehensive coverage, some drivers may face challenges in filing a successful claim. Complications can arise if there’s any question of driver negligence or if the policyholder only carries liability insurance, which typically does not cover damages from wildlife collisions. Ensuring that all the details are properly documented and working with the insurance company to secure compensation can become a frustrating process.
Liability and Legal Support
A common misconception is that since wildlife accidents are often considered “no-fault” incidents, there is no need for legal assistance. However, even in these cases, consulting a lawyer can be beneficial. A skilled attorney can help drivers navigate insurance disputes, ensure all documentation is in order, and advise on how to recover damages for injuries, vehicle repairs, and medical expenses. Additionally, in rare cases, there may be grounds for a liability claim if poor road maintenance or improper signage contributed to the accident.

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Staying Safe on Colorado Roads During the Fall
Fall in Colorado brings an increased risk of wildlife collisions as animals migrate and breed, particularly along mountain roads and near the Front Range. Shorter daylight hours and heightened animal activity make accidents more likely, even for cautious drivers. While taking steps like reducing speed and staying alert can help, collisions may still cause significant damage or injury.
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