Crosswalks are designed to protect pedestrians, but all too often, they become the scene of dangerous and even life-altering accidents. In Colorado, the law gives pedestrians certain rights, but asserting those rights after a serious accident requires swift, informed action.
Understanding Pedestrian Rights in Colorado
Colorado law (C.R.S. § 42-4-802) mandates that drivers yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked, at intersections. If a pedestrian is already in the crosswalk and walking by traffic signals, vehicles must stop to allow them safe passage.
However, fault is not always clear. For example, if a pedestrian entered the crosswalk after the signal changed or a driver was speeding or distracted, each party’s responsibility must be evaluated carefully. This is where personal injury law—and a skilled attorney—comes into play.
What Happens After a Crosswalk Accident?
The scene after a pedestrian accident can be chaotic. Medical care comes first, but documentation is key. Photos, eyewitnesses, and police reports can provide critical evidence. Pedestrians should avoid making statements about fault at the scene, as those could be used against them later.
It’s also essential to understand that insurance companies may not act in your best interest. If a driver’s insurer reaches out quickly with a settlement offer, it’s often designed to minimize their financial exposure, not to compensate you fairly for long-term injuries.
Common Injuries and Long-Term Impact
Even low-speed pedestrian accidents can result in devastating injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Permanent disability
These injuries may not fully reveal themselves immediately, which is why early legal and medical intervention is so important.
How Liability Is Determined
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if the pedestrian is found to be less than 50% at fault, they can still recover damages, but their percentage of fault will reduce their compensation.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, your final compensation would be $80,000.
The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney
An experienced attorney will:
- Gather critical evidence like traffic camera footage or vehicle black box data
- Consult with accident reconstruction experts
- Work with your medical providers to estimate future costs
- Handle communication with insurers so you can focus on recovery
Damages You May Be Entitled To
A successful pedestrian injury claim can help you recover:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability compensation
What to Do If You’ve Been Hit in a Crosswalk
- Seek medical help immediately
- Avoid discussing the accident with anyone but your doctor and attorney
- Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible
Why Local Representation Matters
Local knowledge of Boulder’s traffic patterns, intersections, and courts can be an advantage. Tenge Law Firm is deeply familiar with how these cases are handled in Boulder County and throughout Colorado.
Boulder Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Are you a victim of a pedestrian accident in Fort Collins, CO? Don't navigate the aftermath alone—let Tenge Law Firm LLC stand by your side. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (303) 219-7377 to learn how we can assist you on your path to recovery.
