Legal Options for Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Colorado Crosswalks

Being struck by a vehicle in a crosswalk is one of the most traumatic events a person can experience. You were following the rules, crossing where you were supposed to cross, and yet you now face mounting medical bills, time away from work, and pain that may last for months or longer. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone, and you have legal options.
At Mintz Law Firm, we represent pedestrians injured by negligent drivers throughout Colorado. Our 12 attorneys understand both the physical and emotional toll these incidents take on victims and their families, and we are here to help you understand your rights as you navigate Colorado pedestrian accident claims.
Colorado Law and Crosswalk Rights
Colorado law is clear about who has the right-of-way at a crosswalk. Under C.R.S. Section 42-4-802, a driver must yield to any pedestrian crossing within a marked crosswalk when the pedestrian is in the driver’s lane or approaching closely enough to be in danger. Drivers are also prohibited from passing a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk to allow a pedestrian to cross, even if they believe the path is clear.
When Drivers Violate the Law
When a driver fails to yield, runs a red light, or is distracted or impaired while behind the wheel, they may be held legally responsible for any resulting injuries. In these cases, the fault comes down to whether the driver breached their duty of care, which is the legal obligation to act reasonably and safely while operating a vehicle. A breach that causes injury generally entitles the victim to seek compensation.
It is also worth noting that Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you are found to be partially responsible for the crash, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault. Your total compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault, but it would not be eliminated entirely.
What Compensation Can You Pursue?
Victims of crosswalk collisions in Colorado may be eligible to recover a range of damages, both economic and non-economic. These vary by case, but they typically include the following types of losses:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and reduced future earning capacity if injuries affect your ability to work
- Pain and suffering, which account for the physical discomfort and mental anguish caused by the crash
- Property damage, such as personal belongings damaged in the collision
- Loss of enjoyment of life, especially in cases involving catastrophic injuries that change a victim’s daily experience
In cases where a pedestrian has died as a result of the crash, surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim under Colorado law.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Colorado has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, meaning you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to recover compensation entirely. Beyond the legal deadline, acting quickly matters because evidence can disappear, witnesses may become harder to locate, and memories fade over time.
After a crosswalk collision, documenting the scene, seeking immediate medical attention, and avoiding recorded statements with insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney can all protect your claim. Traumatic brain injuries and other serious conditions sometimes take time to fully manifest, which is another reason why a medical evaluation right away is so important.
How The Attorneys at Mintz Law Firm Can Help
Insurance companies do not always act in the best interest of injured pedestrians. Their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and without legal representation, you may accept a settlement far below what your case is actually worth. An experienced attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and, when necessary, take your case to trial.
The attorneys at Mintz Law Firm bring decades of combined experience handling personal injury cases throughout Colorado. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, pedestrian fatalities hit an all-time high in 2022, and the numbers have remained troublingly high in the years since. The legal system exists to hold negligent drivers accountable, and you deserve an advocate who will fight for full and fair compensation on your behalf.
Injured in a Colorado Crosswalk? Mintz Law Firm Is Ready to Fight for You
If you or someone you love was injured in a pedestrian crosswalk accident in Colorado, Mintz Law Firm is ready to stand in your corner. Our team has a proven track record of results, including multi-million-dollar settlements for clients who suffered serious injuries due to someone else’s negligence. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Do not wait to get the help you need. Reach out to our team today by visiting our free consultation page and telling us what happened. We will review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next step toward the justice you deserve.