A quick text can seem harmless, but on busy highways like I-25 in downtown Denver or I-70 through the foothills, even a split-second distraction can lead to life-altering consequences. At the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating these crashes can be. If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, we’ll help you hold them accountable and get the compensation you need to move forward.
What Are Colorado’s Laws on Cell Phone Use While Driving?
As of January 1, 2025, Colorado drivers are banned from holding or manually using a mobile device while driving. That means no texting, browsing, or even holding your phone at a stoplight. The law applies to all drivers, not just teens or commercial operators.
You can still use your phone in limited situations, such as reporting an emergency or when using hands-free voice commands. But picking up the phone for a “quick text” is now against the law and puts everyone at risk.
The goal is simple: keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Drivers who ignore this rule not only face fines but also increase the chances of causing serious harm to others.
What Are the Penalties for Violating Hands-Free Laws?
If you’re caught breaking Colorado’s Hands-Free law, the penalties can add up quickly:
- First offense: $75 fine and 2 points on your license
- Second offense: $150 fine and 3 points
- Third or more: $250 fine and 4 points
If texting behind the wheel causes someone serious injury or death, the consequences become far more severe. You could face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. And those legal penalties are just the beginning if a civil lawsuit follows.
How Common is Cell Phone Use While Driving in Colorado?
Distracted driving is a serious issue across Colorado. A recent survey by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) found that in 2024, 77% of drivers in the state admitted to using their phones behind the wheel. Distracted driving leads to more than 15,000 crashes each year in Colorado, according to the Colorado State Patrol. These crashes don’t just happen on remote roads—they often occur in busy areas like Colfax Avenue, near Red Rocks Amphitheatre after concerts, or while merging on or off I-25 during rush hour.
Behind every crash is a person, someone’s family member, friend, or co-worker, whose life was changed in seconds. And in many cases, the injuries and losses could have been prevented. When drivers choose their phones over safety, others pay the price.
What Are Common Injuries in Texting and Driving Accidents?
Texting and driving often leads to rear-end collisions, sideswipes, or intersection crashes. Victims can suffer a wide range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash and spinal damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries and bleeding
- Facial cuts and long-term scarring
These injuries can take months or even years to recover from. In some cases, they never fully heal. That’s why it’s so important to take legal action and demand the care and support you deserve.
How Are Phone Records Used as Evidence?
When we take a texting and driving case, one of the first things we look at is the at-fault driver’s phone activity. With a subpoena, we can request phone records to find out whether the driver was texting, calling, or using apps at the time of the crash.
In some cases, we also work with phone forensics experts to analyze app usage and GPS data. That kind of digital evidence can help prove what happened and who should be held responsible. It’s a powerful tool that can make all the difference in your case.
Why Should You Have a Lawyer on Your Side?
Texting and driving accident cases can be more complex than they seem. Proving the other driver was distracted takes time, skill, and determination.
At the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, we help you by:
- Investigating your accident thoroughly
- Collecting and preserving phone records and other evidence
- Working with medical professionals to understand your injuries
- Negotiating with insurance companies for full compensation
We’ll focus on your case so you can focus on getting better. From start to finish, we’re here to support you.
Contact Our Experienced Denver Texting and Driving Accident Attorneys
Whether your crash happened along I-70, near Red Rocks, or anywhere in the Denver metro area, if you were hurt by a distracted driver, don’t try to handle it alone. We’re ready to help you get the justice you deserve. Contact the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya today for a free consultation. We’ll stand by your side and fight for your recovery.