Pedestrian Injury Claim Table of Contents
- Understanding Colorado Pedestrian Accident...
- Pedestrian Injury Claim FAQ's
- Pedestrian Accidents in Denver, Colorado...
- Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
- What Are the Most Common Car Accidents...
- Common Serious Injuries from Denver...
- What Are the Most Common Injuries Involved...
- Wrongful Death from Pedestrian Accidents
- What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
- Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
- Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim
- Possible Damages You Can Claim
- Proving Liability in a Pedestrian Accident...
- Contact Anderson Hemmat
Understanding Colorado Pedestrian Accident Injury Claims
Pedestrian accidents are some of the most dangerous car accidents because they are often unexpected and usually happen at relatively high speeds in rush hour traffic. According to the GHSA, there were 6,227 deaths resulting from pedestrian accidents in the United States in 2018. Unfortunately, this shows a 4% increase in fatalities year over year and a 35% increase since 2008.

This means that on average, 17 people lose their lives every day to pedestrian accidents. The dramatic growth in this trend over the last decade is due to the rise of distracted drivingā¦mainly texting while driving.
When a pedestrian accident occurs, the resulting injuries can be devastating for the pedestrian, and sometimes even fatal. The driver involved is usually at fault in a pedestrian accident, and they should be held responsible for the medical expenses and suffering caused by their negligence.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian vs. car accident resulting in injuries, then you should contact an experienced Denver pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible. Consulting with a Denver pedestrian accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the support needed to navigate the aftermath of such incidents. The faster you act, the better your chances for a successful personal injury claim that yields the maximum amount of compensation.
A pedestrian accident occurs when a pedestrian is struck by a motor vehicle, leading to injuries or fatalities. These incidents can happen anywhere but are particularly prevalent in urban areas with heavy foot traffic. In Denver, Colorado, pedestrian accidents are a significant concern, with numerous pedestrians injured or killed each year. Various factors contribute to these accidents, including driver negligence, reckless behavior, and poor road conditions. Understanding what constitutes a pedestrian accident is crucial for recognizing the risks and taking preventive measures.
Pedestrian Injury Claim FAQ's
If you are hit by a vehicle while walking or biking, take the following steps:
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not show symptoms right away.
Call 911 to report the accident. A police report will help establish liability.
Gather evidence, if possible. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle or personal belongings. Get contact details from witnesses and the driver.
Avoid making statements of fault at the scene. Even apologizing could be used against you in a claim.
Contact an experienced personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance companies to ensure your rights are protected.
Liability depends on the circumstances of the accident. In many cases, the driver of the vehicle is at fault if they:
Ran a red light or stop sign
Failed to yield to a pedestrian or bicyclist in a crosswalk
Were speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence
However, cyclists and pedestrians also have responsibilities under Colorado traffic laws. Liability may be shared if:
A cyclist ran a stop sign or red light
A pedestrian jaywalked or crossed against a traffic signal
The cyclist or pedestrian was distracted (e.g., using a phone)
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning if you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damagesāthough your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.
If you were injured due to a driverās negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and future medical costs
Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced future earning capacity
Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish
Property damage: Repairs or replacement for your bicycle or personal belongings
Punitive damages: If the driver was reckless (e.g., drunk driving or hit-and-run), additional damages may be awarded as punishment
Every case is unique, and the amount of compensation depends on the severity of injuries, liability, and available insurance coverage.
Yes, under Colorado law, bicycles are considered vehicles, meaning cyclists must follow traffic laws, including:
Stopping at red lights and stop signs
Signaling before turning
Riding with traffic (not against it)
Using bike lanes where available
However, motorists are also required to:
Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing
Yield to bicycles in bike lanes or crosswalks
Check for cyclists before opening car doors or making turns
If a driver violates these laws and causes an accident, they can be held liable for injuries.
Pedestrian Accidents in Denver, Colorado Are Very Common
On average, every 5 years there are almost 2,000 reported crashes in Colorado involving pedestrians, comprising an average of between 300 and 400 on an annual basis.

People between the ages of 25 and 34 are the age group most often involved in pedestrian accidents in Denver, representing 21% of all pedestrian accidents in the city. This particular age group also represents the largest portion of the population. Denver pedestrian accident attorneys play a crucial role in investigating these accidents and collecting evidence of driver negligence. Consulting with experienced Denver pedestrian accident lawyers is essential for determining liability and navigating claims.
Passenger cars and vans make up half the vehicles involved in pedestrian accidents, followed closely by SUVs, utility vans, and pickup trucks. These larger vehicles result in higher rates of injury, 67% of accidents result in injury when an SUV or pickup truck is involved compared to only 61% of accidents involving passenger cars.
There are several factors the majority of which pertain to motorists including those guilty of:
Aggressive driving
Driver inexperience
Typically, distracted driving or some form of it is almost always the culprit of these types of accidents. This means that you almost always have a case to seek compensation as a victim and that the other person is almost always at fault.
There is the occasional jay-walking incident which leads to a pedestrian vs. car accident, and we have also seen a few cases involving bicyclists who were not properly following the rules of the road.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can result from a multitude of factors, each contributing to the risk of serious injuries. The leading cause in Denver is driver negligence, where drivers who are distracted, speeding, or failing to yield to pedestrians create hazardous situations. Reckless behavior, such as running red lights or stop signs, further exacerbates the danger to pedestrians. Additionally, poor road conditions, including inadequate lighting and insufficient crosswalks, increase the likelihood of accidents. Weather conditions like rain or snow can make roads slippery, heightening the risk. Lastly, pedestrian error, such as not following traffic laws or being distracted, can also play a role in these unfortunate events.
What Are the Most Common Car Accidents Involving Pedestrians and Cyclists?
Because of the nature of these types of accidents, particularly those involving a motor vehicle, there are a few main ways that they typically happen, which affects the way victims can seek compensation for their damages and trauma.
Bicycle Accidents
Colorado is known for its beautiful scenery and lovely climateā¦itās the perfect place for cycling enthusiasts. However, this also increases the likelihood of being in a pedestrian accident, as bicycle accidents in Denver have become increasingly more common in recent years. This type of accident can be especially dangerous because cyclists are also traveling high speeds, are high off the ground, and are typically unsuspecting of accidents before they happen. An injured pedestrian faces significant legal challenges in proving their case against a negligent driver, including the burden of proof to establish fault and gather evidence.

Walking Accidents
Just walking around in the city can be dangerous sometimes. Whether it is walking dogs, shopping for something, or just on a leisurely stroll, people walking make up a large portion of the pedestrian accidents in Denver every year. Injured pedestrians should seek legal counsel to understand their rights and avenues for compensation.
Hit and Run Pedestrian Accidents
Hit and run accidents account for 25.5% of crashes involving pedestrians. In these situations, people (usually the driver) leave the scene without following through with proper reports and protocols. In Denver specifically, 23% of all drivers who hit a pedestrian flee the scene, a statistic that hasnāt changed much in the last few decades. Such incidents often involve a negligent driver who fails to exercise the necessary care and responsibility, leading to severe legal implications.
Crosswalk Accidents
Traffic accidents are some of the most common accidents because they involve drivers making right and left turns quickly, not noticing pedestrian crossing signals. In fact, 62% of all pedestrian accidents in Denver are the result of crosswalk related issues to some degree or another.
Aggressive and Negligent Driver
According to Denver Public Works, about 27% of pedestrian accidents in the city take place within 200 feet of a park or a trail, often due to motor vehicle accidents. These types of crashes usually involve drivers making a left turn into a parking spot or onto a road by a trailhead.
Parked Cars and Car Door Accidents
Another commonplace for pedestrian accidents in Denver is school zones. In fact, 6% of all crashes take place within 200 feet of a Denver public school. The most common accidents include those involving parked cars or recently parked cars whose owners open the car door. These are commonly the result of negligence and distracted drivers who are simply not paying attention to their surroundings or are driving too fast in a school zone. Injured parties may face challenges when dealing with the insurance company, including potential denial of claims and underestimation of losses.
Common Serious Injuries from Denver Pedestrian Accidents
As you may imagine, the rate of serious injuries from pedestrian accidents is quite high. This makes these types of accidents very dangerous and can also create lifelong injuries and health issues. Consulting a Denver personal injury attorney can provide legal advice, assess the value of a client's claim, and help navigate potential compensation options in the aftermath of such incidents.
Approximately 60% of reported crashes in the city of Denver involving pedestrians result in injuries. In the last decade, the number of injuries from pedestrian accidents has increased annually from 215 per year upwards of 250 per year.
Speed limit plays a large role in the types of injuries sustained. Even pedestrian accidents that occur while driving at 20 miles per hour have a 56% chance of a fatality or severe injury. Driving 30 miles per hour at the time of impact increases that risk to 60%. Driving at 40 miles per hour brings the risk of fatality or severe injury up to 67%.
Speed |
Injury Rate |
---|---|
20 miles per hour or less |
56% |
25 miles per hour |
63% |
30 miles per hour |
60% |
40 miles per hour |
67% |
45 miles per hour |
87% |
What Are the Most Common Injuries Involved in Pedestrian Accidents?
Head Trauma - In any situation where a pedestrian is involved in a collision with a vehicle, traumatic brain injuries are a serious risk. Pedestrians and cyclists alike run the risk of head trauma which can be minor but if left untreated can worsen.
This typically results in concussions but can result in more serious problems like hemorrhaging and internal bleeding, sometimes even permanent brain damage. Serious enough brain injuries from pedestrian accidents can also lead to coma or even death. Consulting with a lawyer in Denver after such accidents is crucial for receiving tailored legal advice and ensuring fair compensation.

Internal Injuries - In a pedestrian vs. car accident, there is a serious risk for internal bleeding, brain bleeding, and rib fractures from the impact.
Even at low speeds, the force that vehicles exert on someone can cause them a great deal of damage, particularly to bones and organs in the abdomen, which can lead to dozens of internal problems such as tears in the stomach lining, punctured lungs, artery lacerations, and more.
Bone Fractures - The most common injury suffered from pedestrian vs. car accidents is broken bones. The external force will cause broken bones particularly from the pelvic area downward, where most of the physical impact takes place.
Significant bone damage is also experienced in areas that came into contact with the ground if the pedestrian was hit with enough force to travel in the air. The hood design of most vehicles contributes to a high risk of different pelvic fractures and injuries in particular.
Lacerations - Lacerations are severe cuts that are very deep in the tissue and sometimes into the muscle of your body. Usually, falling on debris nearby can cause punctures and severe lacerations to the victims.
Sometimes, lacerations can be so bad that they result in amputation or even death from bleeding out.
Wrongful Death from Pedestrian Accidents
In the most severe pedestrian accidents involving the death of a loved one, a wrongful death claim can be filed. This is an extremely unfortunate circumstance that can leave a family shocked and in disarray, trying to cope with a difficult situation anyone could have foreseen. In this case, you always deserve compensation for the loss of a loved one.
Denver is in the Top 6 Cities in the United States with a high pedestrian fatality rate, with an average of 7.6 pedestrian fatalities for every 10,000 pedestrian commuters. This is an extremely unfortunate statistic that leads to dozens of lives being cut short every year.
If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one from a fatal pedestrian accident in Colorado, it is important that you seek legal help immediately. At Anderson Hemmat, our experienced pedestrian accident lawyers understand the grief and pain you are dealing with and will do everything in their power to help your family get the compensation and justice your family deserves.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Denver, it is essential to take the right steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are some steps to take after a pedestrian accident:

Seek medical attention immediately: Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is crucial to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can help diagnose and treat any potential issues. Your health and well-being should always be the top priority.
Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles or property, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can be invaluable in establishing the cause of the accident and supporting your pedestrian accident claim.
Gather information: Collect contact information from any witnesses, as well as the driverās name, phone number, and insurance information. Witness statements can provide crucial support for your case, and having the driverās details is essential for filing a claim.
Contact the police: Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report. This official document can help establish the facts of the accident and serve as important evidence in your pedestrian accident case.
Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer: An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. A knowledgeable attorney will advocate for your rights and handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf.
Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention after a pedestrian accident is crucial for several reasons:
Diagnose and treat injuries: A medical professional can help diagnose and treat any injuries you may have sustained, including those that may not be immediately apparent. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and promote a faster recovery.
Establish a connection between the accident and your injuries: A medical professional can help establish a connection between the accident and your injuries, which can support your pedestrian accident claim. Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment are essential evidence in proving the extent of your damages.
Document your injuries: A medical professional can document your injuries, which can help support your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Detailed medical records can demonstrate the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life.
Prevent further injury: Seeking medical attention can help prevent further injury and ensure you receive the treatment you need to recover from your injuries. Prompt medical care can address any hidden injuries and reduce the risk of long-term health issues.
Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, filing a claim is essential to seek compensation for your injuries. In Denver, Colorado, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. The process involves several critical steps. First, gather all relevant evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements. Next, contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney who can guide you through the claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation. Your attorney will assist in filing a claim with the at-fault driverās insurance company, advocating for your rights and handling negotiations on your behalf.
Pedestrian Accident Injury Information
Possible Damages You Can Claim
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be eligible to claim various damages to cover their losses. Medical expenses are a primary concern, encompassing hospital bills, doctor visits, and rehabilitation costs. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim damages for lost wages. Additionally, compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges the physical and emotional toll of the accident. Emotional distress, including anxiety and depression resulting from the incident, can also be claimed. In the tragic event of a loved oneās death, a wrongful death claim can provide compensation for the profound loss and its impact on your family. Seeking legal assistance ensures you understand and pursue all possible damages to which you are entitled.
Proving Liability in a Pedestrian Accident Case
To prove liability in pedestrian accident cases, you must establish that the driver was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. Here are some ways to prove liability:
Establish the driverās duty of care: The driver had a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid hitting you. This duty includes obeying traffic laws, paying attention to the road, and yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections.
Show that the driver breached their duty of care: The driver failed to exercise reasonable care, such as by speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield. Evidence of traffic violations, witness statements, and accident reports can help demonstrate this breach of duty.
Establish causation: The driverās breach of duty caused your injuries. Medical records, expert testimony, and accident reconstruction can help establish a direct link between the driverās actions and your injuries.
Show damages: You suffered damages as a result of the accident, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Detailed documentation of your medical treatment, financial losses, and the impact on your quality of life can support your claim for compensation.
By following these steps and working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney, you can build a strong case and seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact Anderson Hemmat
To seek the justice and compensation you deserve, call one of our attorneys at Anderson Hemmat by dialing (303)-782-9999 or by filling out a free case evaluation form.
Related Pedestrian Injury Accident Resources



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Anderson Hemmat, LLC is a personal injury law firm with locations in and around Denver, Colorado, handling all personal injury cases including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, slip and fall, premises liability and more. Our award-winning Denver injury attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for accident victims. If you were injured in Denver, contact our law firm today, we offer a free initial consultation.