Broomfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Walking is generally safer than other modes of travel—the benefits far outweigh the risks. However, pedestrian accidents can occur and often result in severe injuries.
Pedestrians injured in collisions with vehicles may face a challenging recovery process marked by medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Fortunately, Colorado law provides pathways for holding negligent drivers or other responsible parties accountable.
A Broomfield pedestrian accident lawyer could help you explore legal options and pursue fair compensation. Call our law office today to schedule an appointment with one of our hardworking personal injury attorneys.
Understanding Right of Way Laws
Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-801 et. seq describes the protections and obligations the state gives to pedestrians. In marked or unmarked crosswalks, pedestrians usually have the right of way, and drivers should yield to them.
However, pedestrians must exercise reasonable caution before entering a crosswalk, ensuring vehicles can stop safely. Drivers have a higher duty of care than pedestrians, but pedestrians should exercise the utmost caution because drivers are rarely seriously injured in these accidents, while people on foot can be killed.
Outside of crosswalks, pedestrians must yield to vehicles. Crossing outside of designated areas may be considered jaywalking. The fines associated with jaywalking are usually minor but may impact a fault determination in an accident.
Fault determinations are essential for financial recovery after a pedestrian accident. Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-111 describes the state’s approach to modified comparative negligence, which allows recovery as long as an injured party is less than 50 percent at fault.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Occur
Most pedestrian accidents are due to driver negligence. Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to obey stop signs and lights are some leading causes. Additionally, tired or intoxicated drivers are at higher risk of causing a wreck.
Pedestrian behavior also contributes to these incidents. Like drivers, pedestrians can get distracted or ignore the law. However, drivers have a more significant duty to watch out for pedestrians, regardless of the circumstances.
If a driver can safely stop in time to avoid a collision with a pedestrian—even if the driver has the right of way—they have a duty to do so. When determining fault, a Broomfield attorney will examine whether the driver’s actions or inactions contributed to the pedestrian wreck.
Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents
The injuries from a pedestrian collision can range from minor to life-threatening, including the following:
- Broken bones
- Crush injuries
- Severe lacerations
- Damage to internal organs
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
Determining the appropriate compensation for an injured pedestrian involves examining the injury from a holistic perspective. Economic damages compensate the injured party for losses related to medical expenses and missed work.
Non-economic damages provide a tangible representation of subjective losses like pain, suffering, or emotional trauma. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Broomfield can examine a person’s injuries and the extent of fault to help calculate a fair damage award.
Speak to a Broomfield Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
Car collisions involving pedestrians can leave the injured party feeling overwhelmed with medical bills and an inability to work. While the idea of a claim or lawsuit may seem daunting, it could provide financial relief to help improve the situation.
Reach out to a Broomfield pedestrian accident lawyer from Amy G Law for a free case evaluation. They could help you understand your rights and potential remedies and guide you toward your next steps.
