Being a Pedestrian in Denver: One of America’s Most Walked Cities

“Look both ways!” is something I am sure you were taught as a child when crossing the street. Even if you frequently use a car, light rail, or ride share to get where you’re going, you are probably still a pedestrian at some point in your day, whether that is crossing at a crosswalk or walking to your car in a parking lot. This reality is why we need to focus in on the facts and why it is imperative that you know the potential risks of being a pedestrian in Denver.

Since the pandemic, Denver has become one of Americas most walked cities. The City of Denver launched a city-wide transit plan in 2020 called “Denver Moves” which has a goal to improve the quality of transportation options in the Denver metro area. One of the points on the Denver Moves agenda is to, “Identify improvements in pedestrian and bike infrastructure and amenities to make it easier and safer for people walking and biking to get to transit.” (DenverGov.org) The national walkability index, Walk Score ranked Denver with a walkability score of 61 which falls under the “Very Walkable” category. Even with the city-wide transit plan underway and a walkability score of 61, pedestrian accidents and fatalities still occur in Denver every day.

The Colorado Department of Transportation reported that last year, 76 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in Colorado. (codot.gov) According to the NHTSA, 6,205 pedestrians were killed in 2019 in the United States. (NHTSA.gov)There are many contributing factors to why pedestrian accidents occur. Top causes for pedestrian accidents include:

1. Distracted drivers
2. Recklessness
3. Wearing dark clothing at night
4. Road construction
5. Impaired or impatient drivers
6. Weather

Many pedestrian accident survivors will tell you to avoid becoming complacent when traveling on foot and that you can never be too cautious. Some of the best tips for pedestrian safety include:

1. Wear bright clothing
2. Walk on sidewalks when they are available
3. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible
4. Stay alert
5. Use a familiar route

We know that despite using your best precautions, anyone can be at the wrong place at the wrong time. Our very own Partner, Keith Fuicelli has first-hand experience with a traumatic brain injury following an accident in 2007 when he was out for his morning jog and was hit by a car going 45 mph. His injury and journey to recovery gives him a unique perspective and understanding when counseling clients who have experienced life-changing and fatal injuries. Keith Fuicelli knows the challenges that his clients face when recovering from traumatic injuries, which is what sets him apart from fellow trial attorneys both in and out of the court room. Next time you are walking around Denver make sure to “look both ways!” and enjoy your daily stroll while staying safe.

As the premier Injury Law Firm in Denver, our goal is to reduce the number of injuries we see from pedestrian accidents and maximize recovery for those who have been the victim of a vehicle vs. pedestrian accident. If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident, call us at 303-355-7202 for a free consultation with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.