Tragic pedestrian accidents on busy streets like Denver’s Federal Boulevard have reignited the conversation around pedestrian safety. These incidents emphasize the urgent need for enforcing Colorado’s right-of-way laws and holding negligent drivers accountable. As communities push for safer roads, it’s crucial to understand the legal responsibilities of both motorists and municipalities.
This article goes into the specifics of Colorado’s right-of-way laws, the duties drivers must uphold, the potential liability of cities and towns, and how injured pedestrians can pursue justice and compensation with the help of an experienced Denver pedestrian accident attorney.
Who Has the Right of Way at a Crosswalk in Colorado?
In Denver, Colorado, pedestrians have the right of way in both marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. This legal protection means drivers must yield to pedestrians, regardless of whether the crosswalk is clearly marked with painted lines or not. Safety is paramount, and this rule helps ensure that walkers can cross streets without undue risk.
Marked Crosswalks
At marked crosswalks, drivers are required to stop and allow pedestrians to safely cross the street. These crosswalks are typically indicated by white lines and may also have signs or signals. Failure to stop can result in traffic penalties and potential legal consequences for the driver.
Unmarked Crosswalks
Even at intersections without visible markings, pedestrians still have the right of way. These unmarked crosswalks are legally recognized, and drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing the street. Awareness of this rule is crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
Signalized Crossings
When pedestrians have a walk signal, drivers must remain stopped until the crossing is clear. This rule applies to all signalized intersections, where traffic lights and pedestrian signals are in place. Drivers must be patient and allow pedestrians to complete their crossing before proceeding.
Failing to follow these right-of-way rules can lead to traffic penalties and legal liability. Drivers who do not yield to pedestrians can face fines, points on their driving record, and even civil lawsuits if an accident occurs. It is essential to understand and adhere to these laws to protect both pedestrians and drivers.
What Are a Driver’s Responsibilities in Denver Pedestrian Accidents?
In Colorado, drivers have a clear legal duty to protect pedestrians. These responsibilities include:
- Yielding to Pedestrians in Crosswalks: Drivers must stop and allow pedestrians to cross safely, whether crosswalk is marked or unmarked.
- Slowing Down in High-pedestrian Areas: Reducing speeds are required in residential neighborhoods, near schools, and on busy roads like Federal Boulevard to lower accident risks.
- Never Passing a Stopped Vehicle at a Crosswalk: A stopped car may be yielding to a pedestrian. Passing in this situation is both dangerous and illegal.
- Accepting Financial Responsibilities if an Accident Occurs: Drivers who hit pedestrians may be liable for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.
- Avoiding Reckless or Impaired Driving: Drunk, distracted, or reckless driving that causes a pedestrian accident can result in criminal charges, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
By following these rules, drivers can help create safer roads and protect the most vulnerable road users – pedestrians. However, when motorists ignore these safety laws and cause harm, victims have legal options. A skilled Denver pedestrian accident attorney can help injured pedestrians hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation they deserve.
Can the City Be Liable for a Pedestrian Accident in Denver?
Yes. In certain cases, a city may share liability for a pedestrian accident if unsafe road conditions or poor infrastructure contributed to the incident. A Denver pedestrian accident attorney may investigate whether government negligence played a role.
Poorly Marked or Faded Crosswalks
When crosswalk lines are faded or missing altogether, it creates confusion for both drivers and pedestrians , it creates confusion for both drivers and pedestrians about where it is safe to cross. This lack of visibility often leads to preventable accidents, especially on busy Denver roads.
Malfunctioning or Missing Traffic Signals
Traffic signals play a crucial role in controlling vehicle flow and protecting pedestrians. If a light is broken, poorly timed, or missing in a high-traffic area, the city may be responsible for the increased danger.
Poor Street Lighting
Many pedestrian accidents occur at night because drivers cannot see someone crossing in time. Municipalities have a duty to ensure that high-traffic roads and intersections are well-lit to give both pedestrians and motorists adequate visibility.
Failure to Fix Known Safety Hazard
On roads like Federal Boulevard, where residents have repeatedly warned unsafe conditions, municipalities may be held liable if they fail to act on these warnings. Ignoring community concerns can lead to accidents that could have been prevented with timely improvements.
Unsafe Road Designs
Cities should incorporate pedestrian-friendly designs such as raised crosswalks, speed bumps, pedestrian refuge islands, and narrower lanes to slow down traffic.
Because lawsuits against government agencies fall under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act (CGIA), strict notice requirements and deadlines apply. Victims must file claims within a limited period of time and follow very specific procedures.
Do Pedestrians Have Legal Responsibilities Too?
While pedestrians are strongly protected under the law, they must also take responsibility for their own safety. One of the primary rules is to cross at intersections or marked crosswalks whenever possible. This helps ensure that drivers are aware of their presence and can yield appropriately.
Following Signals
Pedestrians should always follow pedestrian signals at crosswalks. These signals are designed to guide safe crossing times and help manage traffic flow. Ignoring these signals can lead to dangerous situations and increase the risk of accidents.
Avoiding Sudden Movements
It is important for pedestrians to avoid suddenly entering the roadway when vehicles cannot reasonably stop. Drivers need time to react, and unexpected movements can result in serious injuries. Pedestrians should always look both ways and ensure it is safe before crossing.
Comparative Negligence
If a pedestrian is partly at fault for an accident, Colorado’s comparative negligence law applies. For instance, if a pedestrian is found to be partially responsible, their compensation would be reduced to the equivalent of that percentage. This law emphasizes the importance of shared responsibility on the road.
Staying Visible
Pedestrians should take steps to stay visible, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Wearing reflective or brightly colored clothing and positioning yourself in a well-lit area before crossing makes it easier for drivers to notice you. When possible, making eye contact with drivers can also provide assurance that they see you, reducing the risk of accidents.
Staying Educated
Municipalities and community organizations play an important role in educating pedestrians about their rights and responsibilities. At the same time, pedestrians must take responsibility for learning and applying this knowledge. Attending safety workshops, paying attention to public awareness campaigns, and understanding traffic signs and signals can all help promote safer behavior on the roads. Educated pedestrians are better equipped to protect themselves and others.
Understanding these responsibilities not only keeps pedestrians safer but also strengthens their position if an accident occurs. Navigating Colorado’s pedestrian laws can be complex, especially when questions of shared fault arise. Consulting an experienced Denver pedestrian accident attorney can help you understand your rights, assess liability, and take the right legal steps toward fair compensation.
Talk to a Denver Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian accidents in Denver often leave victims facing serious injuries, costly medical treatments, and lost income. Between busy intersections, unsafe roads, and negligent drivers, simply crossing the street can be dangerous. That’s why having an experienced Denver pedestrian accident attorney on your side can make all the difference. At Levine Law, our attorneys are committed to protecting victims, investigating what went wrong, and pursuing the maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries and damages from a pedestrian accident, do not wait to get the help you need. Call Levine Law today for a free consultation. With our no-win, no-fee promise, you can rely on our experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Denver to handle your case from start to finish while you focus on getting better.
Sources Cited:
CBS Colorado. (2024, December 16). Denver residents demand safer crossings on Federal Boulevard after fatal accidents. CBS News. Retrieved August 30, 2025, from https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/denver-residents-demand-safer-crossings-federal-boulevard-fatal-accidents/
Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles. (n.d.). Pedestrian safety tips. Colorado DMV. Retrieved August 30, 2025, from https://dmv.colorado.gov/pedestrian-safety-tips
Colorado Revised Statutes 42-4-802. (2023). Pedestrians’ right-of-way in crosswalks. FindLaw. Retrieved August 30, 2025, from https://codes.findlaw.com/co/title-42-vehicles-and-traffic/co-rev-st-sect-42-4-802/
FindLaw. (n.d.). Colorado negligence laws. FindLaw. Retrieved August 30, 2025, from https://www.findlaw.com/state/colorado-law/colorado-negligence-laws.html
