Pedestrian accidents can have severe, life-altering consequences, impacting your ability to work, care for loved ones, and enjoy daily life. With decades of experience, our team of Lakewood pedestrian accident attorneys is equipped to provide compassionate yet aggressive representation, helping clients confidently navigate the complex legal process.
We are dedicated to helping you achieve the compensation needed for a full and fair recovery. Our personalized approach sets us apart.
We prioritize clear communication, timely updates, and an unwavering focus on our clients’ well-being. Choosing Levine Law means choosing a team that will fight for you at every stage—from collecting evidence and filing claims to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court.
Colorado Pedestrian Accident Statistics and the Growing Need for Vigilance
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), pedestrian accidents have steadily increased statewide. In 2022 alone, over 111 pedestrian fatalities occurred in Colorado, which accounted for 15% of the state’s total traffic fatalities.
Data indicates that urban areas like Lakewood have higher pedestrian accident rates due to increased vehicle and foot traffic. As pedestrian fatalities continue to rise, injured pedestrians need to understand their rights and take the necessary steps to protect themselves legally.
Pedestrians are uniquely vulnerable compared to other road users. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are at high risk for serious injuries in collisions, often resulting in extensive medical treatments and long-term impacts on mobility and quality of life.
At Levine Law, we believe in holding negligent drivers accountable and helping pedestrians understand the legal avenues available.
Find Out How Much Your Case in Worth
Call us for a FREE consultation. No Fee Unless We Get You Money.
Colorado Laws and Rights for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Colorado law grants pedestrians specific rights and legal protections designed to ensure their safety. Under Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S. § 42-4-802), drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in designated crosswalks and stop for pedestrians crossing streets with traffic signals. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to observe these laws, leading to accidents that could have been prevented.
Furthermore, Colorado’s “modified comparative negligence” rule allows injured parties to seek compensation if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. This means that even if a pedestrian is found to be partially responsible, they can still pursue a claim.
Our experience as Lakewood pedestrian accident attorneys ensures that we thoroughly investigate each case, working to minimize any contributory fault and maximize compensation for our clients.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries, given the lack of physical protection available to those on foot.
Some of the most common injuries seen in pedestrian accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Pedestrians struck by vehicles are at risk for severe head trauma, which can result in cognitive impairments, memory loss, and long-term disability.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, drastically impacting an individual’s mobility and independence.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Fractures in the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis are common and often require surgical intervention, followed by lengthy recovery periods.
- Internal Organ Damage: Collisions can result in internal injuries that may require emergency surgery and ongoing medical treatment.
- Lacerations and Bruises: While seemingly minor, severe cuts and bruises can lead to complications like infections, scarring, and nerve damage.
At Levine Law, we understand that recovery can be long and complex. As your accident lawyer in Lakewood, we work diligently to ensure that compensation not only covers immediate medical expenses but also accounts for ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and other damages that arise during your recovery.
What Can a Lakewood Pedestrian Accident Attorney Do for You?
Choosing a Lakewood pedestrian accident attorney means entrusting your case to professionals who can handle all aspects of the legal process on your behalf. As your advocate, we provide a wide range of services to secure the best outcome for you:
- Conducting a Thorough Investigation: We begin a comprehensive investigation to gather essential evidence from the moment you hire us. This includes obtaining police reports, speaking to witnesses, reviewing medical records, and analyzing available surveillance footage. We may also work with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case, ensuring we have all the necessary information to establish liability.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, arguing that victims share partial fault or downplaying the severity of injuries. As experienced Lakewood accident attorneys, we communicate with insurers, negotiate for a fair settlement, and ensure they do not exploit any technicalities to deny compensation.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: We calculate a comprehensive claim, including economic and non-economic damages. By taking into account all aspects of your injury—immediate costs, lost income, future medical needs, and intangible losses—we work to ensure that you receive a fair compensation package.
- Representing You in Court if Necessary: While many cases are settled outside of court, we are fully prepared to represent you in litigation if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Our track record of courtroom success makes us a trusted advocate for pedestrian accident victims in Lakewood.
Seeking Justice and Compensation: What Damages Can You Recover?
Colorado allows victims of pedestrian accidents to seek compensation for several types of damages. These include:
- Economic Damages: These are measurable financial losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and future earning potential. For instance, if your injuries prevent you from returning to work, we may seek damages for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
- Non-Economic Damages: These cover intangible losses such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. Pedestrian accidents can have profound emotional impacts, and our team works to ensure that these damages are appropriately valued.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the driver’s behavior was particularly reckless or malicious—such as driving under the influence—punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the at-fault party.
Our role as a Lakewood pedestrian accident lawyer is to thoroughly evaluate each type of damage to build a claim that reflects the full extent of your losses. We advocate for a settlement that helps you regain stability and peace of mind.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen? Common Causes and Prevention
Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons, including driver negligence. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Whether due to texting, eating, or adjusting in-car devices, distracted driving leads to countless pedestrian injuries and fatalities every year. In Lakewood, it’s estimated that distracted driving contributes to 25% of pedestrian accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment is a leading factor in pedestrian accidents. According to NHTSA data, nearly 50% of all fatal pedestrian accidents involve alcohol, either in the driver or the pedestrian.
- Failure to Yield Right of Way: Drivers are legally obligated to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, yet many fail to do so, resulting in preventable accidents. We fight to hold drivers accountable when they neglect these responsibilities.
- Speeding: Speed limits exist for a reason. Higher speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase the severity of injuries in the event of a collision. In areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, speeding poses a particularly grave risk.
By understanding these causes, our team can better illustrate driver negligence and build a strong case for your compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pedestrian Accident Claims
Do I need a lawyer for my pedestrian accident case?
While not required, working with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Lakewood can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. We handle the complexities of evidence gathering, insurance negotiations, and potential litigation.
How much is my pedestrian accident case worth?
Each case is unique. The value depends on factors such as injury severity, fault distribution, and the impact on your life. We provide a free consultation to discuss compensation based on your circumstances.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Under Colorado’s comparative negligence rule, you can still seek compensation if you are less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Colorado’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years (C.R.S. § 13-80-102), so it’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and build your case.
INJURED? GET THE MONEY YOU DESERVE!
Call Levine Law Today at 303-333-8000 and Get Our Injury Lawyers Fighting for Your Rights.
Contact Our Dedicated Lakewood Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Today
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek help. At Levine Law, we’re here to provide you with comprehensive support and representation. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.
