Boulder, Colorado, is a summer paradise. With its sunny weather, scenic trails, and bustling downtown streets, it’s the perfect spot for a stroll, a bike ride, or a casual outing. But behind the carefree summer vibe lies a growing concern. Pedestrian accidents during summer have been on the rise, and one of the biggest culprits is distracted driving.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you’re probably dealing with pain, medical bills, and a flood of questions. Why did this happen? Who’s responsible? What can you do to make it right? Let’s explore the issue together so you can feel informed, empowered, and ready to move forward.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Increase in the Summer?
There’s no denying Boulder comes alive in the summertime. But with more people on the streets and drivers behind the wheel, the chances of an accident increase. Here’s why summer sees such a spike in pedestrian accidents:
- More Foot Traffic: Tourists, hikers, and everyday locals enjoy Boulder’s parks, Pearl Street Mall, and scenic paths. This means more pedestrians sharing space with vehicles.
- Increase in Drivers: Summer brings road trips, family outings, and tourists unfamiliar with Boulder’s streets. More drivers mean more chances for mistakes.
- Distracted Driving: Whether it’s texting, fiddling with the GPS, daydreaming, or even rubbernecking to check out the gorgeous views, distractions are more prevalent during road trips and outings.
- Longer Days, Late Nights: Extended daylight hours encourage evening walks, but dusk can be dangerous for visibility.
What Is Distracted Driving, and How Does It Affect Pedestrians?
Distracted driving happens any time a driver’s attention is pulled away from the road. Texting is the most infamous distraction, but it’s far from the only one. Drivers can become distracted by eating, chatting with passengers, adjusting the radio, or even using their phone to find the nearest ice cream shop.
For pedestrians, these split-second distractions can have devastating consequences. If a driver takes their eyes off the road for just five seconds while texting, they’ve essentially traveled the length of a football field blind. Imagine the damage that could happen in those moments if someone is crossing the street or stepping off a curb.
Your Rights as a Pedestrian
If a distracted driver has hit you, Colorado law is on your side. Drivers have a legal duty to avoid accidents and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Simply put, the driver is often at fault if they failed to:
- Stay alert and focused
- Follow traffic signals or signs
- Observe speed limits, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas
If a distracted driver caused your injuries, you deserve compensation—not just for the financial hit from medical bills but for the emotional and physical toll this accident has taken on your life.
What Steps Should You Take After a Pedestrian Accident?
Recovering from a pedestrian accident can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to help protect your rights and build a strong path forward.
- Prioritize Your Health: Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe. Being evaluated by a professional not only ensures your well-being but also establishes a record of injuries linked to the accident.
- Document the Scene: Photos and videos are incredibly important. Capture skid marks, traffic signals, the vehicle involved, and the driver’s plates if possible. This evidence can be critical for building your case.
- Get Witness Information: Were there any bystanders who saw what happened? Their statements can be valuable when determining fault.
- File a Police Report: A police report provides an official account of the accident and may include details about whether the driver was cited for distracted driving or breaking the law.
- Protect Your Legal Rights: Colorado operates under a fault-based insurance system, which means you can pursue a claim against the responsible driver. Get in touch with a personal injury attorney to help guide you through this process.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help?
Dealing with a pedestrian accident claim isn’t easy, especially when you’re recovering from an injury. Insurance companies might try to downplay your injuries or deny liability altogether. That’s where a personal injury lawyer steps in.
They can help by:
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Lawyers know the tactics insurers use and can push back to get you fair compensation.
- Proving Negligence: A skilled attorney can gather evidence, like phone records, to show the driver’s distractions caused the accident.
- Securing the Compensation You Deserve: This can include coverage for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Protect Yourself and Others
While you can’t control a driver’s behavior, taking extra precautions as a pedestrian can reduce your risk of being in an accident. Remember to:
- Use crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals.
- Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you, especially when crossing busy intersections or streets.
- Avoid distractions like headphones or looking at your phone while walking near traffic.
Boulder Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
At Tenge Law Firm LLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a pedestrian accident can take on your life. Our experienced attorneys will work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions and help you get back on your feet. Contact us today at (303) 219-7377 to get started.
