Winter in Colorado is beautiful, but it also brings some of the most dangerous driving conditions of the year. With a combination of snow, ice, wildlife, early sunsets, ski traffic, and holiday travel, these winter conditions create risks that even experienced drivers struggle with. For teens and young adults who may not have years of winter driving under their belt, those risks increase even more.

As parents, it’s important to make sure your teen understands the unique hazards of driving on the road in winter conditions and what they can do to stay safe. Here are the key reminders every Colorado family should review before temperatures drop and the first storm hits.

Black Ice Is Invisible and One of the Most Common Causes of Winter Crashes

Black ice forms when melted snow or moisture refreezes and becomes nearly impossible to see. Teens often assume ice will look shiny or visible, but in reality, black ice blends into the pavement.

You’ll often find it:

• On bridges and overpasses
• In shaded areas that never get sun
• At intersections where cars have packed down snow
• Early in the morning or late at night when temperatures dip

The danger comes from overcorrecting (swerving or braking too hard) which can cause the car to spin or slide into oncoming traffic. Remind your teen to drive slowly, avoid sudden movements, and assume ice is present when roads look wet in freezing temperatures.

Snow Doesn’t Just Affect Traction, It Reduces Visibility More Than Teens Expect

Colorado storms can go from mild to whiteout in minutes. Visibility drops fast, and teens may not realize how dangerous it is to continue driving.

Snowstorms create risks like:

• Losing sight of lane markings
• Blinded vision from snow glare or headlights reflecting off falling snow
• Sudden drifts that hide curbs or medians
• Drivers stopping unexpectedly

Encourage your teen to slow down, use headlights (even during the day), and pull over in a safe place if conditions worsen. Slowing down is the simplest, most effective way to prevent winter collisions.

Early Sunsets Mean Teens Spend More Time Driving in the Dark

In the winter months, darkness comes early, often while teens are still driving home from school, practice, the gym, a friends house, or work.

Driving after sunset reduces depth perception, peripheral vision, and reaction time. Add snow, ice, and headlight glare, and the risk of accidents spikes. Talk to your teen about planning extra time for evening travel and staying extra alert when driving after dark.

Wildlife Collisions Increase in Winter — Especially at Dusk and Dawn

Deer and elk are more active in the winter, migrating and searching for food. Many teens don’t realize how quickly a large animal can appear in the road or how severe the impact can be.

Remind them that Wild animals often travel in groups, if you see one, expect more. Bright lights can cause animals to freeze in the road and swerving can lead to a much more serious crash. If a collision is unavoidable, the safest action is to brake firmly and maintain control of the vehicle.

Winter Tires and Proper Car Maintenance Matter More Than Teens Realize

Teens may assume their car is “fine” as long as it starts, but winter adds extra stress on every part of a vehicle.

Help them check:

• Tire tread depth and tire pressure
• Whether they need all-weather or snow tires
• Wiper blades and washer fluid
• Working headlights and taillights
• An emergency kit with gloves, blankets, a scraper, and a phone charger

Even small issues like worn wipers can create dangerous situations in winter conditions.

Teens Should Know What to Do if an Accident or Slide-Out Happens

Winter collisions and slide-outs happen fast. Teens need to know how to respond calmly and safely.

Review these steps:

• Move to a safe location if possible
• Turn on hazard lights
• Call 911 if anyone is injured or the roadway is blocked
• Take photos and document the conditions
• Exchange information
• If asked if injured, say “I don’t know yet”
• Do not admit fault, even apologizing can be misunderstood
• Contact your insurance company and an attorney if injuries are involved

Being prepared helps reduce panic and ensures your teen makes safe choices.

If Your Teen Is Injured in a Winter Accident, We’re Here to Help

Winter driving accidents increase every year in Colorado, and teens are especially vulnerable due to lack of experience. Driving in the winer is not just about slowing down, it’s about awareness, preparation, and helping young drivers understand the risks that come with the season.

Before the next storm hits:

• Talk with your teen about winter hazards
• Make sure their car is winter-ready
• Review what to do if a crash occurs
• Remind them that staying calm and choosing safety is always the best option

If your child is injured, whether as a driver or a passenger, multiple factors may come into play, including road conditions, unsafe drivers, and insurance disputes. At Larson Schneider Injury Law, we help families understand their rights, evaluate the facts, and take the next steps after a winter-related accident. If your teen is involved in a winter accident, we are here to guide your family, answer your questions, and help you get the support and compensation you deserve.