Streets connect us and can foster health, happiness, and opportunity. But that’s only true if they are safe for everyone, including joggers and pedestrians.
Colorado is a scenic running state with some of the most sensational views for runners. Unfortunately, anyone who runs or jogs outside must contend with the real danger of getting struck by a vehicle. Even in a runner-friendly state like Colorado, many drivers are oblivious to pedestrians. As endurance events gain popularity, there is a growing competition for pavement space for runners and cyclists. When you pair that with the growing concern of distracted driving, you have a recipe for disaster.
Getting hit by a car is a traumatic experience. If you are lucky, your story might end on a reasonably upbeat note, but that’s not usually the case. If a runner or jogger gets hit by a car, they will most likely suffer serious injuries or even die.
Jogging Accidents on the Rise in Colorado
According to data from the Governors Highway Safety Association, In 2020, fatal accidents involving pedestrians have risen in the USe by 21%. Colorado is also observing a rise in pedestrian deaths on the roadways.
The National Road Safety Foundation reported 92 Colorado pedestrian fatalities in 2020. That’s a 21 percent increase from the previous year (76), surpassing the national average.
A KRDO report said that the El Paso County Coroner’s Office reported 920 deaths in El Paso County, 13 of which were pedestrian deaths. Five of them were killed by a negligent driver. So far, in 2022 in El Paso County, there have already been 15 pedestrian deaths. The most recent one was a fatal crash in Fountain.
Statistics From Previous Years:
- In 2019, there were 76 pedestrian fatalities in Colorado.
- In 2019, pedestrian fatalities accounted for nearly 13% of all Colorado traffic fatalities.
The Most Dangerous Counties for Joggers and Runners in Colorado
The top five counties for pedestrian fatalities in 2020 were:
- El Paso
- Denver
- Adams
- Jefferson
- Arapahoe
Other counties with pedestrian deaths included Larimer County, Weld County, Pueblo County, Delta, Garfield, Montezuma, and Pitkin.
October Is National Pedestrian – Drive Safe Month
In October 2021, a driver hit a pedestrian near Medicine Bow Ave. on Fountain Mesa Rd., killing the pedestrian at the scene. Police say that pedestrians are not as visible when walking in an area with no sidewalk, roadway, or scant lighting. As well, it’s very easy to blend into the darkness if someone is walking or running at night.
Drivers are not always the cause of fatal pedestrian accidents. Pedestrians should focus on their surroundings and avoid distractions while walking, running, or jogging. Looking at your phone can be especially dangerous while entering or crossing a roadway. Even if you are looking down for one second to change the song on your running playlist, that second can have dire consequences.
Following the accident last year, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has dedicated October as National Pedestrian-Drive Safe Month.
Cabot’s “Left Behind” Campaign Remembers Pedestrians Killed With Display of 76 Shoes
As a tribute to the 76 pedestrians who lost their lives in 2019, the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Denver Streets Partnership joined at Union Station to remember their lives. Their mission was to remind all drivers to use caution near pedestrians on Colorado roads.
CDOT also launched the “Left Behind” safety campaign to raise awareness about pedestrian safety and decrease pedestrian crashes in Colorado. They continue to strive to keep Coloradoans safe on the roadways, whether driving, jogging, or walking.
Colorado featured the campaign on billboards in Colorado Springs and the Denver Metro area, the RTD Bus and Rail, bus shelters, and social media.
It was an emotional reminder highlighting the tragic aftermath and devastation of pedestrian crashes. In addition, they used personal items left behind by pedestrians as symbols of reminder.
What To Do if You Are Hit by a Car While Jogging in Colorado
Get a Police Report
Be sure to get a police report. This will document the accident details and can help if you need to file a claim later.
The police report will also help establish liability if the driver was at fault for the accident. In addition, it should include the name and information of the driver and a detailed report of the incident.
If you decide to file a personal injury claim, the police report will serve as evidence. Other evidence your attorney may use includes pictures of your injuries, the vehicle, and the accident scene.
Try to get contact information from any nearby witnesses and take down the driver’s license plate in case the driver tries to flee the scene. While it may be challenging to stay calm, especially if you have injuries, try not to argue with the driver. You’ll want to communicate with them calmly and get their insurance information. That way, you can seek compensation for the damages and the injuries you sustained.
Get Medical Treatment
You may need emergency medical attention if you have a severe or catastrophic injury. Even if you think your injuries are minor, get checked out by a doctor.
Some injuries may not present immediately or fully right after you get hit by a car. Getting proper medical treatment will help document your injuries and prevent further damage. If or when you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit, you will need medical documentation for your claim.
Keep a strict record of all your medical records and bills, as they will be critical evidence in your case. Also, document all the days you were unable to work because of accident injuries. Your attorney can help you determine the value of lost wages.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
After getting medical treatment, the final and perhaps most crucial step is to consult with a Denver personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can advise whether or not you have a case and help determine the value of your claim. Furthermore, they can guide you through the legal process and help you get the best possible outcome.
Lawyers know how to negotiate with insurance companies and handle complex legal proceedings. Letting an experienced professional handle the paperwork and represent you in court will relieve the stress you already have from being hit by a car.
Contact a Denver Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you or someone you know has been hit by a car while jogging, it is essential to take action to protect your rights. Follow the steps outlined in this blog post and contact a Denver personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
No family should ever have to bury their loved ones at the hand of a negligent driver. However, if you lost your loved one to an accident caused by someone else, you might be able to file a wrongful death suit.
With the help of an attorney, you have the best chance of winning the compensation you deserve. Thank you for reading, and good luck!
We hope this blog post was helpful. Call (720)500-HURT or schedule your free consultation online if you have further questions.
