Serious and fatal pedestrian accidents have been on the rise in Colorado. In one recent weekend, four pedestrians died in Denver. This tragic series of events has shed light on this concerning trend regarding pedestrian fatalities.
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, with medical bills, rehabilitation, and emotional distress taking a toll on your life. A pedestrian accident lawyer can provide the guidance and support needed to navigate the legal process, holding responsible parties accountable for their actions.
If you or someone you love was hit by a car, contact The Longo Firm, LLC in Colorado Springs to protect your rights and review your potential legal options.
How many pedestrian deaths have happened in Colorado this year?
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) reported that 111 pedestrians were killed on Colorado's roads in 2022. This accounted for 15% of all traffic deaths.
As of this writing, Colorado has had at least 85 pedestrian fatalities in 2023. Compared to last year, the number increased by over 12%. In particular, Jefferson, Pueblo, and El Paso counties had alarming surges in pedestrian fatalities this year.
Sam Cole, the traffic safety manager at CDOT, expressed his concern about this alarming trend.
"It's not just the last year, we've seen the number of pedestrians killed in the state of Colorado double over the last 10 years," said Cole. "I was thinking last year was going to be the record year. But now, it looks like this year will be the record year."
Cole believes drivers must change their behavior to address this issue and reverse the trend. CDOT is putting up neon safety reminders at busy intersections in Denver and Aurora. These neon pedestrian figures have QR codes that can be scanned. They give important information about pedestrian safety and aim to raise awareness among all road users.
The designated intersections in Denver include:
- Wynkoop Street & 18th Street near Union Station
- Federal Boulevard & Howard Place
- Broadway and 6th Avenue
In Aurora, the designated intersections include:
- E. Montview Boulevard & Ursula Street
- E. 16th Place & Victor Street
Common causes of car vs. pedestrian accidents
Pedestrian fatalities aren't only a problem in Colorado; it's a nationwide issue. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there was a pedestrian death every 71 minutes and an injury every 9 minutes. This can be attributed to a range of factors, including:
- Distracted Driving: The prevalence of smartphones and other electronic devices has led to a significant increase in distracted driving. When drivers divert their attention from the road to text, browse social media, or engage with apps, their focus on pedestrian safety diminishes.
- Failure to Yield to Pedestrians: Some drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks, intersections, or designated pedestrian areas, increasing the risk of accidents and fatalities.
- Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances often exhibit impaired judgment and delayed reaction times. This impairment can have devastating consequences for pedestrians sharing the road.
- Failure to Adjust to Poor Visibility: Insufficient visibility, particularly during nighttime or adverse weather conditions, can make it challenging for drivers who are going too fast or not paying attention to spot pedestrians, leading to accidents.
- Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Speeding reduces a driver's reaction time and increases the force of impact in the event of an accident. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as running red lights and stop signs, create hazardous situations for pedestrians.
- Poorly Designed Road Infrastructure: Inadequately designed roadways and pedestrian infrastructure contribute to accidents. The absence of well-marked crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and proper signage can put pedestrians at risk.
If you were hit by a car, contact a lawyer right away
You need to do two things right away if you were hit by a car in Colorado. First, seek immediate medical attention to ensure your health and safety. Even if your injuries seem minor, some conditions may not be immediately apparent but can worsen without a prompt medical evaluation.
Second, consider contacting an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer who can help you demand accountability and seek compensation for your damages (e.g., medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering). An attorney can find the facts that matter to your case, deal with insurance companies, and help you pursue any necessary legal action to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Whether you're an injured pedestrian or lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian accident, The Longo Firm, LLC will work tirelessly to protect your rights and aggressively advocate for your best interests. To find out how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us online or call our Colorado Springs law office and schedule a free consultation.