Pedestrian Accidents In Colorado

Unfortunately, not many people survive pedestrian accidents due to the seriousness of the injuries sustained. Pedestrian accident statistics show pedestrians account for 19% of all traffic fatalities in Colorado. Since 2013, pedestrian fatalities have increased by 161% and 77% since 2018. In 2023, there were 136 pedestrians killed in Colorado.

The surviving family members are left with uncertainty, hurt, grief, and even anger. For the few who are fortunate to survive, the extent of their injuries often has significant impacts on their lives in numerous ways.
At Bachus & Schanker, our caring and compassionate pedestrian accident lawyers understand the difficulties you are facing. Our entire law firm and Victim’s Advocates are here to provide the support, guidance, and reassurance you need during this difficult time, and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

GET A FREE CONSULTATION

Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents In Colorado

The vast majority of pedestrian accidents in Colorado are preventable, yet still occur for the following reasons:

Distracted driving: Drivers who text, talk on the phone, or take their eyes off the road for even a few seconds make it more likely to get into an accident, and hit a pedestrian.
Driving under the influence: Driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol impairs people’s reaction times, and makes it difficult to stop. When people are severely impaired, they may not even see a pedestrian, hit them, and then keep driving.
Speeding: Speeding can cause pedestrian accidents, especially when people attempt to beat a traffic light, but do not make it in time.
Failing to yield the right-of-way: Pedestrians have the right-of-way in crosswalks at intersections, but unfortunately, some drivers will not stop.
Lane departures: When a driver leaves their lane, they could hit a pedestrian walking in a bike lane, or even on the sidewalk.
Turning left: When drivers turn left, they do so quickly, often not paying attention if pedestrians are in the crosswalk.
Backing up: Even with backup cameras, and rear-cross alert safety features on vehicles, people still back up and hit pedestrians because they do not visually check themselves.
Poor weather: Rain, snow, ice, and fog cause driving conditions to deteriorate, and increase the risks of losing control of one’s vehicle, and potentially hitting a pedestrian.
Nighttime: It is more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians at night, especially in areas without street lights.
Wearing dark clothes: Pedestrians increase the risk of being hit when they wear dark clothes at night.

Injuries Sustained In Pedestrian Accidents

The extent of injuries sustained during a pedestrian accident depends on the force of the impact from the vehicle, and could include:

Fractured and broken bones
Spinal cord injuries
Neck, shoulder, and back injuries
Internal organ injuries
Loss of limbs
Traumatic brain injuries
Cuts, scrapes, and contusions
Partial or full paralysis
Disfigurement
Death

How To File A Personal Injury Claim After A Pedestrian Accident

The steps to take to protect your legal rights, and file a pedestrian injury claim are:

Seek medical treatment immediately: The injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents are usually life-threatening, and require immediate treatment.
Document the accident scene: If possible, take pictures and videos of the accident scene.
File a police report: You will want to file a police report to have an official record on file.
Collect witness details: Obtain the contact details from any witnesses.
Obtain information about the driver: Get the driver’s name, address, vehicle information, and insurance company information.
Contact a pedestrian accident attorney: To ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve, speak with a qualified injury lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer will assist in gathering evidence to prove the driver was at fault, especially when you are unable to do this yourself due to the extent of your injuries.

Once you have retained an attorney, they will file your injury claim against the responsible party’s insurance company.

Understanding The Statute Of Limitations For Pedestrian Accidents In Colorado

The statute of limitations for pedestrian accidents in Colorado can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. For pedestrians who survive their accidents, they have up to three years from the accident date to file their injury claim.

If they were hit by a government vehicle, the statute of limitations is much shorter, and requires filing the claim within 182 days of the date of the accident.

In the unfortunate case the pedestrian died as a result of their injuries, the surviving family members only have two years to file a wrongful death claim.

Safety Tips For Pedestrians And Drivers

Reducing pedestrian accidents in Colorado requires practicing driver and pedestrian safety habits, and using these tips.

Tips For Pedestrians

Use crosswalks: Use crosswalks when crossing the street.
Stay visible: Wear light-colored and bright clothing, and carry a flashlight at night. In 2023, 81% of pedestrian fatalities occurred at night.
Avoid distractions: Pay attention to your surroundings and vehicles.
Walk against the flow of traffic: Whether on the sidewalk, in a bike lane, or off the shoulder of the road, walk against the flow of traffic, so you can see oncoming drivers.

Tips For Drivers

Always yield to pedestrians, no matter who has the right-of-way.
Slow down, and drive cautiously at intersections, crosswalks, and parking lots.
Avoid distracted driving, and pay attention to your surroundings at all times.
Never rely on your backup camera alone. Always do a visual check before backing up.
Use your turn signals to let pedestrians know you are turning.
Remember that pedestrians will still be out at night, so drive with extra caution.
Never drive while under the influence.

Why Choose Bachus & Schanker For Your Pedestrian Accident Case?

Some of the many reasons you should consider Bachus & Schanker for your pedestrian accident lawyers include:

Kyle Bachus has first-hand experience with pedestrian accidents, as his mother was struck and killed in a crosswalk.
We provide our clients with catastrophic injuries and their family members access to our Victim’s Advocates team, as well as those who have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident.
We believe everyone should have access to compassionate, supportive, and aggressive legal representation to obtain the compensation they deserve.
We handle every aspect of the claims process, including gathering evidence, obtaining witness statements, filing court documents, negotiating with the insurance company, and if necessary, representing your interests at trial.
We help reduce your stress and anxiety after your accident, and allow you time to heal and recover while your legal team advocates on your behalf to secure a favorable settlement.

Get Help Protecting Your Rights After A Pedestrian Accident

Protect your legal rights to obtain the compensation you deserve after a pedestrian accident in Colorado. Request your free consultation with our injury lawyers today. We take cases on a contingency basis, meaning you owe us nothing until we obtain a settlement, or win at trial.