Walkers are among those at highest risk of serious or fatal injury in a collision with a motor vehicle.
Denver Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Pedestrians in Denver are among the highest at risk of suffering a serious or fatal injury after an accident with a motor vehicle. These accidents can lead to lifelong impairments that leave victims with costly medical bills, unable to earn a living, and a lifetime of dealing with the pain and suffering from their injuries. We understand how drastically a serious accident like this can impact your life and the lives of your loved ones.
Fiedler Trial Lawyers provides passionate, principled, and proven representation to victims and families in need of an experienced pedestrian injury lawyer in Denver or the surrounding areas, including Highlands Ranch, Aurora, Englewood, Boulder, Thornton, Littleton, Ken Caryl, Columbine, Golden, Lakewood, Broomfield, and Arvada.
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What Is Considered a Pedestrian Accident?
Colorado law defines a pedestrian as any person travelling on foot. This includes anybody who is walking, jogging, running, or even standing still, as well as those who rely on wheelchairs and other assistive devices for mobility. In Denver, bicyclists are not considered pedestrians, and skateboarders and rollerbladers generally aren’t either. Pedestrian laws vary from state to state, though there are laws in place regulating how and when pedestrians can safely and legally cross streets and interact with traffic.
In Denver, a pedestrian accident is defined as any accident involving an individual who is travelling on foot that is injured or killed by a driver of a vehicle. The driver could be operating a car, a semi-truck, or even a bicycle. Both drivers and pedestrians must adhere to specific rules and regulations when interacting with each other. Not all pedestrian accidents are automatically the driver’s fault.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents in Denver?
Pedestrian accidents are a serious and growing concern in Denver and the state of Colorado as a whole. According to CDOT (Colorado Department of Transportation), there were 128 pedestrian accident deaths in 2023, marking a record high for the state of Colorado. They also cited that driving in dark conditions is a major factor in these cases.
Both drivers and pedestrians can be at fault in these accidents, and sometimes they may even share the blame. Some of the most common causes that we see for pedestrian accidents in Denver include:
Driver Negligence
A large number of pedestrian accidents can be attributed to driver negligence and recklessness. Distracted driving and speeding are two of the most common causes for car accidents in the United States, and they are no exception in these cases. Drivers who are distracted by their cellphones or entertainment systems in their vehicles put themselves and others at risk. Reckless behavior like texting and driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or ignoring traffic laws can all lead to pedestrian accidents that leave the victim seriously injured. Reckless driving and distracted driving can become significantly more dangerous in areas like crosswalks and intersections and in neighborhoods with small children.
Lack of Infrastructure
A lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, and streetlights continues to impact pedestrian safety in too many neighborhoods in and around Denver. According to the CDC, most pedestrian accidents occur in urban areas with posted speed limits between 45-55 miles an hour. Pedestrians travelling in high-traffic, urban areas without reliable infrastructure are more likely to be involved in an accident. Poorly lit neighborhoods and roadways without streetlights are also dangerous for pedestrians and drivers alike, as we noted earlier that most accidents take place at night when it is dark outside. Malfunctioning traffic signals and poor road conditions can also be contributing factors in these accidents.
Failure to Yield
Pedestrians are always owed the right of way at a crosswalk. However, even when crossing at a crosswalk, a pedestrian is still likely to be seriously injured or killed in any collision with a motor vehicle, in which case the driver of the vehicle will likely be found liable. Drivers in Denver should always give pedestrians the right of way; waiting a few extra seconds is worth avoiding a tragedy, regardless of who is at fault.
Backover Accidents
In 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began mandating that all new vehicles sold in the United States come equipped with a backup camera. Still, the presence of many older vehicles on the road and the popularity of large SUVs continue to contribute to the high number of backover accidents. Drivers who fail to notice a pedestrian walking behind them when pulling out of a driveway or parking space may hit a pedestrian, bicyclist, or even another vehicle.
Pedestrian Error
The driver is not always responsible in a pedestrian accident. Reckless behavior by pedestrians is a common factor in these accidents. For example, pedestrians who jaywalk, fail to use the crosswalk, do not pay attention to their surroundings while walking, or unexpectedly venture out into the road can be held liable in these accidents. A pedestrian who dresses in dark clothing while walking around at night may also be at a higher risk of an accident, as they can be much more difficult to see than someone wearing reflective clothing. Joggers and runners are encouraged to wear a light when running in dark conditions to make themselves more visible to vehicles, bicycles, and other pedestrians.
In Denver, drivers owe a duty of care to pedestrians. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians travelling in marked crosswalks and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Even if the driver is not at fault, they should exercise due care to avoid a collision with a pedestrian at all costs, especially vulnerable pedestrians like children or those with disabilities. Drivers must also obey all posted speed limits. This is especially important in pedestrian-heavy areas such as school zones and residential neighborhoods.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a Denver pedestrian accident, the team at Fiedler Trial Lawyers is ready to fight for your rights while you focus on your recovery.
Where Do Most Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
As we mentioned earlier, pedestrian accidents happen most frequently in urban areas in dark conditions. The higher number of people in urban areas usually means more traffic, resulting in more accidents. However, a pedestrian accident can happen almost anywhere at any given time.
- Intersections: Crosswalks and busy intersections are common areas for pedestrian accidents to occur. Drivers who are speeding through intersections, possibly either running a red light or traffic sign or distracted by their cellphones, may fail to notice pedestrians in the crosswalk, especially later at night.
- Parking Lots: Busy parking lots are often chaotic and dangerous places to walk through. Speeding through parking lots, cutting through spots, failing to follow the right travel lanes, and poor lighting can all play a part in a Denver parking lot accident.
- Residential Neighborhoods: These accidents can be particularly concerning as they may happen in school zones and often involve young children crossing the street without looking. Backover accidents and rear-end accidents are also common when backing out of the driveway.
According to the US Department of Transportation, nearly 1 in 4 traffic accidents can be attributed to an intersection. It is highly important for both drivers and pedestrians to travel safely, making note of any and all traffic signals, yield signs, speed limit signs, and more. Pedestrians should be especially cautious in vulnerable areas like school zones, neighborhoods, parking lots, crosswalks, intersections, downtown, and any other high-traffic areas.
Regardless of the location, if you have been injured in a Denver parking lot accident or a pedestrian accident, our attorneys are here to help you fight for your compensation and your recovery.
Common Injuries After a Denver Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrians who are involved in accidents with vehicles are often left with serious injuries and costly medical bills. At Fiedler Trial Lawyers, we are here to help the victims of these accidents secure compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and their pain and suffering. Every accident is different. Your injuries and your compensation may vary drastically depending on the circumstances surrounding your accident. The size and speed of the vehicle, as well as the location of the accident, are all major factors in these cases.
After a Denver pedestrian accident, some of the most common injuries we see often include:
Head Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions are common in pedestrian accidents. The force of a vehicle can often send a pedestrian slamming to the ground and seriously damage their brain. Collisions with a motor vehicle can also be extremely impactful on your head and skull. These accidents can easily cause skull fractures that cause brain damage and permanent impairment. Other head injuries like a broken nose, fractured jaw, eye injuries, and lacerations are also common.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A serious accident can lead to devastating spinal cord injuries, like a herniated disk or fractured vertebrae. Spinal injuries can result in lifelong impairment caused by either partial or complete paralysis.
Broken and Fractured Bones
The impact of a collision alone can be incredibly damaging and leave you with broken arms, legs, ribs, and more. Victims in Denver often experience injuries to their lower extremities due to the vehicles making contact with their lower body first. Pedestrians may also experience pelvic fractures and facial injuries after being thrown by the vehicle.
Internal Injuries
These are often some of the most concerning injuries suffered after a pedestrian accident. It is important to seek medical treatment right away to not only address all of your apparent and immediate injuries but also check for any internal bleeding and organ damage that could be life-threatening if not treated quickly. The blunt force of the impact can cause serious damage to your organs and even lead to a collapsed lung.
Similarly to bicyclists and motorcycle riders, pedestrians are at an increased risk of injury and death during a collision due to their lack of protection and their exposure to the elements. Pedestrians should remain alert and aware at all times to try to avoid a collision and these potentially life-altering and life-threatening injuries. Even if you are following the rules and obeying all of the traffic signals as a pedestrian, it is still possible to be involved in an accident and become greatly injured. If this is the case, you can rely on the Denver attorneys at Fiedler Trial Lawyers to handle your case and ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve.
What Damages Can I Claim After a Pedestrian Accident?
After experiencing a traumatic pedestrian accident, lawsuits and attorneys are rarely the first thing on a victim’s mind. Those who have been involved in a serious accident like this should immediately focus on their recovery and receiving medical treatment. Nothing is more important than your health and safety.
However, we all know that hospital visits and medical treatments can quickly begin to add up. Reaching out to an experienced pedestrian accident and personal injury attorney promptly will allow you to build a strong case and recover compensation for your costly medical bills in a timely manner. In Denver, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is 2 years from the date of the accident. Although for accidents involving a motor vehicle, victims will typically have 3 years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm. Our team can assist you in claiming both economic and noneconomic damages for your accident.
Economic damages often include compensation for things like:
- Medical expenses: Medical bills can pile up quickly. Between hospital stays, medical treatment, and medications, the costs can become overwhelming. Our Denver attorneys can help you recover compensation for your past and future medical bills. This also includes compensation for things like ongoing medications, physical therapy, alterations to your home, and more.
- Lost wages: For victims who are unable to return to work, our attorneys are here to help you claim compensation for lost wages. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be unable to work for the foreseeable future. Fiedler Trial Lawyers can also help you seek compensation for future lost wages. This can be particularly important for those who are the head of the household or have others relying on them financially.
- Property damage: You may be able to recover damages for any personal property of yours that was destroyed as a result of the accident. Any items like electronics, wheelchairs, assistive devices, and more can be reimbursed.
After a Denver pedestrian accident, victims may be able to recover compensation for all of these and more. Things like medical bills, paychecks, and personal items can be easier to assign a number value to, though the mental anguish of an accident can be hard to calculate. Fortunately, our attorneys can also help you secure compensation for the noneconomic damages after an accident as well. This includes:
- Pain and suffering: While this is not a tangible item that can be easily valued, victims may be able to secure compensation for the intense pain and suffering caused by the accident. Victims are often left with intense, chronic pain that lasts a lifetime and can greatly reduce their enjoyment of life.
- Emotional suffering: Many victims of these accidents experience great feelings of depression and anxiety afterwards. These are traumatic and life-threatening events. Victims often deal with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after these incidents.
- Loss of consortium: Spouses and close family members of the victim may be able to seek compensation for a loss of consortium, or a loss of companionship, affection, or intimacy. Spouses and family members in Denver can also claim compensation for loved ones that died as a result of the accident.
Economic and noneconomic damages aim to provide some solace for victims and families who are struggling and experiencing great difficulty recovering from these losses. Our Denver attorneys can help you secure damages for your growing medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental distress, and more. You should not have to suffer because of the negligence and recklessness of another person.
Our team is dedicated to helping victims and their families in Denver claim compensation for their injuries so that they can get back to living a normal life as quickly as possible. For compassionate and proven legal representation from professionals that you can trust, call Fiedler Trial Lawyers today to handle your pedestrian accident claim.
Determining Liability in a Pedestrian Accident
In Denver, t is possible for both parties to share fault in a pedestrian accident, though there are often signs that can indicate fault in these accidents. A skilled pedestrian accident attorney can be instrumental in this part of your claim. Our team will assess your accident carefully, reviewing all relevant information available to strengthen your case. We will help gather and review evidence pertaining to relevant traffic laws, police reports, surveillance footage, and more to help identify the responsible party in your accident. By conducting a thorough investigation, we will be able to determine whether driver negligence was a factor in your case. For a free, detailed case review, we encourage you to contact our team.
In Colorado, comparative fault applies to pedestrian accidents. This means that both parties could share responsibility for the accident, and your damages may be reduced by whatever percentage you are found liable for in the accident. For example, if you are found to be 10% at fault for the accident while the driver of the vehicle is found to be 90% at fault, then your compensation for the accident will be reduced by 10%. If each party is found to be equally at fault, you will not be awarded compensation.
Partnering with Fiedler Trial Lawyers for your Denver pedestrian accident claim can be incredibly beneficial. Our team has decades of experience representing clients in court and has recovered millions for Denver residents. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, trust the compassionate team of attorneys at Fiedler Trial Lawyers to handle your case.
We will stand with you every step of the way, from offering you a free review of your case to filing your claim and representing you in court. We will fight tirelessly to make sure that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries so that you and your family can focus on what matters most, your recovery. Don’t wait. Call our Denver team of pedestrian accident attorneys today and see how we can make a serious difference in your case.
Call Fiedler Trial Lawyers Today for a Free Consultation
Pedestrian accidents are no laughing matter. These are devastating accidents that often end in tragedy. They can leave victims with serious or fatal injuries that result in expensive medical treatments, serious pain and suffering, and a substantially reduced quality of life. If you have been seriously injured in a Denver pedestrian accident, the experts at Fiedler Trial Lawyers are available to offer trusted legal representation with proven results.
These cases can be complicated. Our attorneys will work with you every step of the way. We offer a free, detailed, and confidential case review to our clients and will be able to provide valuable insight about how to proceed with your case. If you are interested in hearing more about how Fiedler Trial Lawyers can assist you in your Denver pedestrian accident claim, we urge you to schedule your free consultation and speak further with our team. If you have been left injured by a senseless accident, we want to hear from you.
Choosing the right attorney for your case can make all the difference. Ken Fiedler and the team at Fiedler Trial Lawyers have been trusted by Denver residents and their families for over 25 years for personal injury cases. We have helped our clients recover millions of dollars in damages, and we can help you too. We make it simple for our clients. We will handle all aspects of your case so that you can focus on what matters most during challenging times. Our firm specializes in personal injury cases but can help in many other key areas of life, including:
We are proud to serve the Denver area and its surrounding cities. We never stop fighting for our clients, and we will work endlessly to secure the compensation that you deserve for your injuries. Our team can focus on recovering economic damages for the cost of your medical bills, lost wages, and any property that you may have damaged or lost during the accident. We can also help you secure noneconomic damages for your mental distress, pain and suffering, and any mental health struggles that you have experienced due to the accident, including bouts with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.
Don’t wait. Call Fiedler Trial Lawyers to schedule your free consultation and get started on your case today. Our team has helped hundreds of clients in the Denver area recover compensation for their injuries, and we want to hear from you too. For more information about how Fiedler Trial Lawyers can play a significant role in helping you claim your compensation, call us today or get in touch with us online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% responsible for the accident, your total damages would be reduced by 20%. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Denver can help ensure your level of fault is accurately assessed to maximize your compensation.
Yes, hit-and-run pedestrian accidents can still be pursued legally in Denver. If the at-fault driver cannot be identified, you may be able to file a claim through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, if applicable. In cases where the driver is eventually identified, they can face criminal charges and civil liability. Working with an experienced attorney is essential to explore all your legal options in hit-and-run cases and to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
To ensure your pedestrian accident case is handled promptly, it’s crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Delays in filing a claim can lead to lost evidence and missed deadlines, potentially jeopardizing your case. At Fiedler Law, we are dedicated to providing personalized support and aggressive representation to our clients. Don’t wait, contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step toward obtaining the justice you deserve.
Additional Information in Denver, Colorado
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Facts and Tips: Provides a comprehensive overview of pedestrian and bicycle safety statistics, along with actionable tips to reduce accidents and improve safety for both pedestrians and drivers across the United States.
- Colorado DOT - Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Study Executive Summary: This detailed PDF report from the Colorado Department of Transportation outlines key findings and recommendations for improving pedestrian and bicycle safety across Colorado. It covers crash statistics, safety infrastructure improvements, and strategies for building safer, more walkable and bike-friendly communities.
- Colorado DMV - Pedestrian Safety Tips: Provides essential safety tips for pedestrians to reduce the risk of accidents, including guidance on crosswalk usage, visibility, and navigating traffic safely in Colorado.
More Frequently
Asked Questions
What to do after a car accident?
If you’ve been injured in an accident, there are several important steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights
- Dial 911 – Emergency Services. Get checked out by emergency responders, even if you think injuries are minor, you should always get evaluated. If the accident involved a motor vehicle, file a report with the police This documentation could be important later on.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to vehicles or property. Collect contact information from witnesses and others involved in the accident READ MORE…
When involved in a personal injury claim, the process can be very intimidating. Many individuals facing this situation are often dealing with life-altering injuries, high medical bills, financial hardships and find themselves feeling very vulnerable.
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in a variety of situations, particularly when you have sustained significant injuries or damages due to someone else’s negligenceREAD MORE…
After being injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be wondering if you actually need to hire a personal injury lawyer. You would want to consult with an attorney, because in most cases, there will be an opposing party in your case that will be working against you. Choosing the right personal injury lawyer for your case is important to ensure you receive the best possible representation and outcome. Hiring a Denver Personal injury lawyer that specializes in that area of law is crucial, to ensure that you are getting proper representation, and your case is in good hands. Having an experienced lawyer like FIEDLER Trial Lawyers is helpful and provides powerful representation.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right lawyer:READ MORE…
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer can vary depending on the lawyer and the specifics of your case. However, personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. Here’s how the contingency fee structure typically works and other potential costs to consider:
Contingency Fees: Percentage of Recovery: If the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, they will take a percentage of the settlement or judgment amount you receive if you win your case. This percentage is typically around 33% to 40% but can vary depending on the lawyer and the jurisdiction.
No Win, No Fee: If you do not win your case, the lawyer will not charge you for legal fees. However, there may still be other costs you could be responsible for (discussed below).RAED MORE…
In a personal injury claim, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, also known as damages, to address the losses and injuries you’ve suffered due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. The types of compensation typically fall into three main categories: economic, non-economic, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Here’s an overview of each:
Economic Damages: These damages are intended to compensate you for actual financial losses resulting from the injury:
Medical Expenses: Compensation for past, current, and future medical costs, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any other necessary medical treatment. READ MORE…
The value of a personal injury case can vary greatly depending on several factors unique to your situation. Since each case is different, there is no standard formula to calculate the exact value. However, here are some key factors that generally affect the worth of a personal injury case:
Severity of Injuries: The more serious and long-lasting your injuries, the higher the potential value of your case. This includes considering whether your injuries result in permanent disability or disfigurement.
Medical Expenses: Your case will take into account all medical expenses you have incurred, as well as future medical costs related to your injury.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: The case can include compensation for lost income due to time off work and any future loss of earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work.READ MORE…
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Kevin
10 months ago
This is the representation that you are looking for! Ken Fiedler hits every box; from punctuality to communication to professionalism. I couldn’t be more satisfied to have chosen Ken to solve this unfortunate problem of mine. He will do the same for you!
Franscheliz
a year ago
I want to take this opportunity to thank this team for everything they did for my family. James and Ken worked on my case with the dedication and tact that you need the most. They fought for my family like I was part of theirs and made me feel seen and heard. This is the type of law firm you want and…
Brandi
a year ago
Ken and his staff are top notch! Ken helped my son and I with our auto accident case. He always took the time to answer our questions or explain things in more detail if needed. Ken is honest, straightforward, and a pleasure to work with. I will always recommend Ken and his team and…
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