Colorado has ramped up efforts to crack down on speeding, especially near schools, construction sites, and other low-speed areas. But despite these efforts, too many drivers continue to speed in these zones, leading to serious accidents—especially pedestrian accidents—according to recent data from the Colorado State Patrol (CSP).
“Slow Down! Too many Colorado drivers are failing roadside workers and kids,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “No matter the day of week or time, motorists should assume people could be present in these low-speed zones and follow the law because people’s lives literally depend on you.”
Speeding continues to be a major issue in low-speed zones
Despite recent efforts to enhance pedestrian safety—such as adding speed bumps, lowering speed limits, and boosting police patrols—speeding violations in school and construction zones remain alarmingly high.
Last year alone, Colorado State Police issued 1,237 speeding tickets in these zones, a 12% increase compared to 2022. These statistics highlight the ongoing problem, even with increased enforcement to keep drivers accountable in areas where pedestrians are most vulnerable.
Colorado sets a record for pedestrian fatalities
State officials are increasingly concerned about speeding in low-speed zones—and for good reason. Speeding and reckless driving are directly tied to the rise in pedestrian accidents across the state.
In 2023, Colorado saw 153 pedestrian fatalities, a new record according to CSP data cited by Sky Hi News. This marks a staggering 37.8% increase compared to 2022, which was itself a record year with 111 pedestrian deaths.
What are the common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrian accidents are on the rise, not only in Colorado but across the U.S. The year 2022 saw the highest number of pedestrian fatalities since 1981, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While speeding is a major factor, several other causes contribute to this growing crisis. Here are some of the most common factors involved in pedestrian accidents:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car technologies are taking their eyes and attention off the road. Even a brief glance at a phone can result in missing a pedestrian crossing the street or walking near the road, making distracted driving one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of accidents.
- Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers make poor decisions, have slower reaction times, and often fail to notice pedestrians. According to the NHTSA, 48% of pedestrian fatalities nationwide in 2022 were linked to drunk driving, highlighting how alcohol continues to play a deadly role in these accidents.
- Reckless Driving: This includes drivers who disregard traffic laws, such as failing to stop at crosswalks, speeding in residential areas, or not yielding to pedestrians. Reckless drivers often take risks that endanger those walking near roads, especially in urban areas where pedestrian traffic is heavier.
- Bad Vehicle Design: Pickup trucks and SUVs are significantly taller and have larger blind spots compared to smaller cars. Their design also makes them more likely to cause severe injuries or fatalities when they strike a pedestrian. Multiple studies have shown that these vehicles are consistently involved in more deadly pedestrian accidents due to their size and structure.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Left turns at intersections are notoriously dangerous for pedestrians. Drivers are often more focused on navigating the turn or watching for oncoming cars, which makes them less likely to notice someone walking across the street.
- Low Visibility: Many pedestrian accidents happen at night or in poorly lit areas. Without adequate street lighting, drivers may not see pedestrians until it’s too late.
- Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way at marked crosswalks or intersections. This is especially dangerous in busy urban areas or near schools, where pedestrians often assume drivers will stop.
- Unmarked Crosswalks: In areas where crosswalks are unmarked, drivers may not expect pedestrians to be crossing, leading to higher risks of collisions. Unmarked or poorly marked crosswalks often contribute to pedestrian accidents.
- Weather Conditions: Bad weather, including rain, fog, or snow, can reduce visibility for drivers and make road conditions slippery. Drivers may have difficulty stopping in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian, especially in poor weather conditions.
Why should you hire a Colorado pedestrian accident attorney?
At first glance, pedestrian accident claims can appear straightforward, especially when a negligent driver is clearly at fault. However, these types of cases often turn into complicated legal battles. Why? Because when serious injuries are involved, there’s a lot of money on the line, and insurance companies will fight hard to protect their bottom line.
That’s where an experienced Colorado Springs pedestrian accident lawyer from The Longo Firm, LLC comes in. We know how to take on tough cases, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve. With proven results—including a $3.85 million car accident settlement—you can trust that we’re ready to help you find your way forward.
When your future is on the line, work with a law firm that puts your needs first. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation with a Colorado Springs pedestrian accident attorney who’s ready to fight for you.