Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Denver, Colorado
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TogglePedestrian accidents are frequent occurrences in Denver and can result in serious injuries and even death. Injuries related to pedestrian accidents can very costly and painful, and lead to expensive medical bills, time off work, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured as a pedestrian, in Denver it is important to get the help you need by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney in Denver.
Under Colorado law, Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-80-101, if you have been injured as a pedestrian by a motor vehicle, your claim for damages may be barred after a certain period of time has passed. This time period, known as a statute of limitations (SOL), prevents a pedestrian from filing a lawsuit for their injuries against the negligent driver after three years from the date of injury. Since this is a short period of time, it is very important to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer in Denver to make sure you are not barred from receiving the compensation you deserve.
Experienced Pedestrian Accidents Lawyers in Denver
Did you suffer catastrophic injuries or was your loved one killed in a pedestrian accident in Colorado? It will be in your best interest to have legal counsel for assistance in determining whether you may be able to seek compensation and dealing with insurance companies.
Donaldson Law, LLC fights for clients all over the Mile High City, including surrounding areas like Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Centennial, Lakewood, Littleton, Longmont, Thornton, Westminster, and many more. You can receive a complete evaluation of your case by calling (303) 458-5000 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Denver County
Pedestrian injuries and death are frequently caused by motor vehicle accidents each year in Colorado. A pedestrian can be injured in a number of ways by a negligent driver or motorist. Some of the common causes of pedestrian accidents are:
- Crosswalk accidents
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driver accidents
- Failure to abide by traffic lights or signals
- Hit and run
- Speeding
- Parking
- Reversing
- Sidewalk accidents
- Texting or using a cell phone
Although most pedestrian accidents happen in urban areas or areas highly congested with traffic, they can occur anywhere, including major roads, interstates or highways.
Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Colorado
Pedestrian accidents generally involve the car bumper hitting a pedestrian. If the vehicle is large or traveling at excessive speeds, the injuries can be severe and even fatal.
Some of the most common pedestrian injuries due to driver negligence include, but are not limited to:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severed limbs
- Paralysis
- Head injuries
- Fractured bones
- Crushed bones
- Concussions
- Broken bones; and
- Brain damage
What to do after a Pedestrian Accident in Denver, Colorado
If you were hit by a careless driver, involved in a motor vehicle accident, or hurt in a related accident, contact your insurance provider immediately following the accident to report the accident.
Also, contact a Denver car accident attorney who can assist you in speaking with your insurance company. A qualified attorney can help you communicate with your insurance provider in a way that avoids accepting liability for your injuries.
Donaldson Law, LLC also focuses on the following practice areas:
- Car Accident
- Catastrophic Injury
- Child Injury
- Dog Bite
- General Negligence
- Government Liability Accidents
- Nursing Home Abuse
- Premises Liability
- Professional Negligence
- Recreational Accidents
- Workplace Accidents
- Wrongful Death
Denver Pedestrian Accident Claims
After you have been hit by a car as a pedestrian, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer before you contact the negligent driver’s insurance company. You may want to exchange information with the other driver in order to file a claim with their insurance provider.
However, it is important to exchange only the most basic information. Insurance companies will often dispute the extent of your injuries, deny valid pedestrian claims, and argue with the number of damages.
Additionally, insurance companies are only required to pay up to the number of the policyholder’s limits, so injured parties are often not fully compensated for their entire injuries. Your lawyer will attempt to communicate with the insurance provider on your behalf in order to help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries, ensure you have received eyewitness and police reports, make sure you receive all necessary medical care and treatment, and file a lawsuit within Colorado’s statute of limitations period if a settlement cannot be reached.
Colorado Pedestrian Accident Resources
Auto-Pedestrian Safety — According to this section of the website for Colorado’s primary safety net institution, roughly 100 children are killed every year in the United States while walking to or from school, 25,000 kids are injured in school zone accidents, and one of every five children killed in traffic crashes are pedestrians. The Denver Health website offers tips for drivers as well as pedestrians. You can also find safe behaviors to help keep your kids safe.
Denver Health
777 Bannock Street
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 436-6000
WalkDenver — This organization works to “make Denver the most walkable city in the country.” You can find petitions on this website as well as details of the group’s recommendations regarding Denver’s sidewalk policy. There is also information on upcoming events.
Call Our Denver, Colorado Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Donaldson Law, LLC For Your Free Consultation Today
If you sustained severe injuries or your loved one was killed in a Colorado pedestrian accident, you should immediately seek legal representation for help getting just compensation. Donaldson Law, LLC represents auto accident victims in communities throughout Adams County, Arapahoe County, Boulder County, Denver County, and Jefferson County.
Denver personal injury lawyer Jennifer L. Donaldson has more than a quarter-century of legal experience. Call (303) 458-5000 or submit an online form today to set up a free consultation that will allow her to review your case and discuss your legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accident
Who can be held responsible for a pedestrian accident in Denver?
Responsibility for a pedestrian accident typically falls on the driver who caused the accident, especially if they were speeding, distracted, or violated traffic laws. At Donaldson Law, LLC, we will thoroughly investigate your case to determine all potentially liable parties and hold them accountable for your injuries.
Can I still pursue compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, under Colorado’s comparative negligence law, you can still seek compensation even if you were partially at fault for the pedestrian accident. However, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and the total damages were $100,000, you could still recover $80,000. At Donaldson Law, LLC, we will work to minimize any blame placed on you and maximize your compensation.
What types of compensation can I receive after a pedestrian accident in Denver?
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in severe cases, permanent disability or loss of earning capacity. If a loved one was fatally injured, you may also be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. Donaldson Law, LLC will help you pursue the maximum compensation available based on the details of your case.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Denver?
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident involving a motor vehicle is three years from the date of the accident. However, certain circumstances, such as government-related claims, may have shorter time limits. It’s crucial to contact a pedestrian accident attorney at Donaldson Law, LLC as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame.
Do I need a lawyer for my pedestrian accident claim in Denver?
While you aren’t legally required to hire a lawyer to file a claim, working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and without legal representation, you may not receive fair compensation. At Donaldson Law, LLC, we handle all the legal aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
How long does it take to resolve a pedestrian accident case in Denver?
The length of time it takes to resolve a pedestrian accident case can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case is settled or goes to trial. Some cases may be resolved in a matter of months, while others could take years. At Donaldson Law, LLC, we understand the importance of timely resolution and will work efficiently to move your case forward while ensuring you receive full compensation.
How can a pedestrian accident attorney help me deal with insurance companies?
Dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident can be challenging, as insurers often prioritize minimizing payouts. A pedestrian accident attorney from Donaldson Law, LLC can communicate directly with the insurance company on your behalf, negotiate a fair settlement, and protect your rights. We ensure that insurance companies do not take advantage of you or offer an unfairly low settlement for your injuries and damages.