Crossing Concerns That Can Lead to Pedestrian Accidents in Colorado

 Posted on November 20, 2019 in Personal Injury

It is no secret that pedestrian accidents often end tragically. Even at slow speeds, a pedestrian can be severely injured or killed after being hit by a car. Last year in Colorado, 90 pedestrians were killed in auto accidents, which was up 40 percent from three years prior in 2015. As of September, official records report 37 deaths so far this year. The final total for 2019 will include this number and likely other pedestrian deaths. Therefore, it is important to be aware of crosswalks and the role they play in pedestrian safety. 

Crosswalk Safety

Last month, a pedestrian died after getting hit by a car at night in Fort Collins. The victim, a 23-year-old man from the area, was hit by a minivan. Although the crash is still under investigation, it is noted that a crosswalk was not being utilized by the pedestrian at the time of the accident. Alcohol and reckless driving were not thought to be contributing factors.

Drivers and pedestrians alike should follow road rules for the safety of everyone. Crosswalks should be used when they are available. If there are traffic lights directing when cars are allowed to proceed through an intersection and when pedestrians can cross, those should be followed. The only exception to this rule is if the police or traffic enforcement personnel tell pedestrians or drivers otherwise. 

Most everyone is a pedestrian at some point. While crosswalks are a safe place for pedestrians to cross the street, not every road has them. With no crossing directions, it is up to pedestrians to decide if it is safe to cross the street. When there is no designated crosswalk or signals, motor vehicles have the right of way. This means that it is their legal right to proceed first. At a crosswalk, drivers must stop for pedestrians, but they do not have to stop for people attempting to cross the road outside of the crosswalk. Pedestrians should always wait until the traffic is clear.

Determining who is at fault for an accident like the one mentioned above can be difficult. If there was a crosswalk in the vicinity for the pedestrian to use, was it working properly? Speeding and alcohol were not likely involved on the driver’s part, but was he or she distracted by a mobile device? Since the accident happened at night, were either party visible to each other in the dark? There can be many contributing factors to a pedestrian and auto accident. That is why it is important to obtain legal representation when pursuing a personal injury claim.

Contact a Fort Collins Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When a pedestrian is hit by a car, he or she will likely have severe injuries if he or she survives the accident. If you or someone you know have been the victim of a pedestrian accident, it is imperative to seek legal counsel. If the driver was at fault, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. Contact an experienced Larimer County personal injury attorney today to discuss your options. Call our office at 970-225-2190 to schedule your free consultation. 

Sources:

https://www.codot.gov/programs/bikeped/information-for-pedestrians

https://www.coloradoan.com/story/news/2019/10/12/pedestrian-killed-friday-collision-fort-collins/3959944002/