Tragic Pedestrian Accident Fatality in Colorado Springs

 Posted on November 13, 2018 in Car Accident

Late this past October, a female pedestrian in Colorado Springs suffered fatal injuries when she was struck by an automobile. The victim was attempting to cross the street when she was hit by a driver who was under the influence of an undisclosed drug. For Colorado residents, this accident served as a reminder of the inherent risks that pedestrians face every single day. If you or a loved one are injured in a pedestrian accident, you should seek out legal assistance as soon as possible. 

Pedestrian Injuries Throughout the United States

Even though traveling by foot is commonly thought of as one of the safest ways to travel, pedestrians suffer injuries much more often than most people would like to assume. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 129,000 American pedestrians were hospitalized in 2015 alone. Pedestrians face increased risk due to their lack of protection in motor vehicle collisions. Because of this lack of protection, most pedestrian injuries are extremely severe. Of the 129,000 pedestrians that were injured in collisions throughout 2015, more than 5,350 ultimately died due to their injuries. 

Studies conducted by the CDC found that pedestrians are actually 1.5 times more likely to be fatally injured in a collision than motor vehicle drivers or passengers. In many of these cases, the accidents are directly caused by the negligence of the motor vehicle driver. Just under 50% of all pedestrian deaths in 2015 involved alcohol. 

Preventing Pedestrian Injury 

As a pedestrian, injuries are sometimes unavoidable, but you can take a few important steps to increase your safety. It is important to follow all traffic laws. Cross the street at marked locations and only cross the street when you have the right of way. If you are walking at night or in inclement weather, wearing bright or reflective clothing can increase the likelihood that drivers will notice you. If possible, walk only on sidewalks or walking paths. 

Contacting a Larimer County Personal Injury Lawyer 

Every single year, an average of 5,000 Americans are fatally injured while traveling as pedestrians. If you or a loved one are struck by an automobile while on foot, it is likely that the injuries suffered were caused by the negligence of a driver. At Hoggatt Law Office, P.C., our team of Ft. Collins pedestrian accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you and your family recover from the impact of injuries. 

Severe injuries can come with expensive medical bills, lengthy physical therapy programs, and lifelong pain. Fortunately, our team is here to help you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free consultation, call our office at 970-225-2190. 

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/pedestrian_safety/index.html

https://www.krdo.com/news/colorado-springs/fatality-reported-following-accident-involving-pedestrian-in-colorado-springs/831479131