Pedestrian Accidents & Injuries
Pedestrian accidents are a severe concern in Colorado, with fatalities and injuries occurring far too frequently. In 2023, there were 131 lethal pedestrian accidents in the state, surpassing the previous record of 115 in 2022. Despite efforts to enhance safety measures and enforce traffic laws, the frequency of these accidents remains a pressing issue, impacting individuals and communities profoundly. Addressing this challenge requires comprehensive strategies that prioritize pedestrian safety through awareness, infrastructure improvements, and legal advocacy to support victims and their families in seeking justice and compensation for their losses.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur due to various factors, often involving negligence or dangerous behaviors by drivers. Here are some common causes:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are texting, using their phones, eating, or engaging in other distractions are less likely to notice pedestrians, leading to dangerous and sometimes fatal accidents.
Speeding
Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. When drivers exceed speed limits, they are less able to stop quickly, increasing the likelihood of hitting a pedestrian.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times. Intoxicated drivers are a significant threat to pedestrian safety, often causing severe or fatal accidents.
Failure to Yield to Pedestrians
Many pedestrian accidents happen when drivers do not yield to pedestrians. At crosswalks, intersections, and during turns, drivers are obligated to allow pedestrians to cross safely. Ignoring this responsibility can lead to severe collisions and injuries.
Poor Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can reduce visibility and make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians. Slippery roads also increase stopping distances, making it more difficult for drivers to avoid hitting pedestrians. This is why it is imperative for drivers in adverse weather conditions to drive in a way responsive to the weather accordingly, taking into account the inability to quickly stop for pedestrians.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads, lack of proper signage, inadequate lighting, and defective traffic signals can contribute to pedestrian accidents. Dangerous road conditions can make it difficult for both drivers and pedestrians to navigate safely, increasing the risk of accidents.
Colorado Pedestrian Laws
Right-of-Way Rules at Crosswalks
In Colorado, pedestrians have the right-of-way at all crosswalks, whether they are marked with a signal or not. Drivers must come to a full stop at actively signaled crosswalks and un-signaled crosswalks and allow pedestrians to cross safely. While crossing at intersection that do not include markings indicating a pedestrian crosswalk, pedestrians must yield the right of way to drivers and cross at designated cross walks only.
Responsibilities During Turning Maneuvers
Whether right or left, drivers making turns must yield to pedestrians crossing the street into which they are turning. This includes situations where drivers are turning into driveways or parking lots. Pedestrians should ensure they are visible to drivers before stepping onto the crosswalk.
Obeying Traffic Signals and Signs
Both drivers and pedestrians must obey traffic signals and signs. Pedestrians should only cross at intersections and crosswalks when the walk signal is in their favor. Drivers must stop at red lights and stop signs and wait for pedestrians to cross before proceeding.
What to Do If You’ve Been Involved in a Pedestrian Accident
Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If you can move, get to a safe location away from traffic. Even if you don’t think you are seriously injured, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be apparent right away, and a medical professional can properly assess your condition.
Report the Accident to the Police
Contact the police and report the accident. An official police report documenting the incident is essential since it will be a critical piece of evidence in any legal proceedings. Make sure to obtain the case number so that your attorney can request a copy of the report.
Gather Information from the Scene
Collect as much information as possible from the accident scene. This includes:
- Names and contact details of all parties involved, including the driver(s) and witnesses.
- Insurance information and vehicle details of the driver(s).
- Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Notes on the weather, road conditions, and any other relevant details that could help in your case.
- Identify any government or private party cameras that might be present on the scene and immediately tell your attorney about their locations. If recording, footage can be erased over quite quickly.
- Tell your attorney what information you were able to gather and point out any other evidence that might still be there.
Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Determining fault and preserving evidence will be a critical part of the investigation and legal process. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced pedestrian injury accident attorney who can guide you through this process, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you navigate the complexities of your case. They can handle communication with insurance companies, gather additional evidence, and work to secure fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Get Legal Representation from a Pedestrian Injury Accident Attorney
At Legal Help in Colorado, we understand that a pedestrian accident can be a life-altering event and provide compassionate and personalized legal representation. Our team listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and supports you every step of the way. We focus on alleviating your stress so you can concentrate on your injury recovery.
Our experienced Denver pedestrian accident attorneys handle all communications with insurance companies, ensuring your claim is accurately presented and vigorously pursued. We fight to secure maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case. Let us help you pursue justice and financial recovery so you can move forward with your life. Best of all, you don’t pay anything for our representation unless and until you receive a settlement!