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Most Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries..

Written by Remington Fang

August 8, 2025

Every day in Denver, pedestrians suffer serious harm due to careless or distracted drivers. These events are more than just accidents—they instantly turn lives upside down. At Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver, we work closely with individuals whose futures have been shaken by pedestrian accident injuries, helping them navigate recovery while holding negligent parties accountable.

We will walk you through the most common types of injuries pedestrians face, how these incidents typically unfold, and the steps you can take to protect your health, rights, and financial future after being hit.

pedestrian accident injuries

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian accidents often involve direct impact with a fast-moving vehicle, followed by a secondary impact with the ground or surrounding objects. This leads to a wide range of possible injuries, many of which require urgent medical treatment and long-term care.

Here are the injuries we most frequently see in pedestrian accident cases:

1. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Head trauma is one of the most serious outcomes of a pedestrian collision. Victims may suffer concussions, contusions, or severe brain swelling. Symptoms can include confusion, memory loss, headaches, and, in serious cases, coma or permanent cognitive impairment.

2. Spinal cord injuries

Injuries to the back or spine can result in partial or full paralysis. Damage to the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions can permanently impact mobility and independence. These injuries often require lifelong medical support.

3. Fractures and broken bones

Fractured legs, arms, ribs, or hips are incredibly common, especially when a pedestrian is thrown by the force of the impact. In some cases, compound fractures may require surgical intervention, implants, or physical therapy.

4. Internal organ damage

Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs such as the lungs, liver, or spleen. These injuries may not be visible at first, but are life-threatening if left untreated.

5. Lacerations and road rash

Many victims suffer severe skin injuries, cuts, and abrasions after being knocked to the pavement. These injuries may lead to infections, scarring, or require skin grafts.

6. Psychological trauma

The emotional impact of a pedestrian accident should not be underestimated. Victims frequently report symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression following the event.

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Most Common Types Of Pedestrian Accidents

Understanding how these incidents occur is just as important as knowing the injuries they cause. In our experience serving clients across Denver, these are the accident types we see most frequently:

Crosswalk collisions

Even in marked crosswalks, drivers often fail to yield. Whether it’s due to distracted driving, speeding, or failure to recognize the pedestrian’s right-of-way, these impacts often occur in intersections and result in serious harm.

Turning vehicle strikes

Drivers making right or left turns at traffic lights may fail to notice pedestrians in the crosswalk. These collisions are especially dangerous because pedestrians typically expect that the driver has seen them.

Nighttime or low-visibility accidents

Reduced visibility plays a significant role in many pedestrian collisions. Poor street lighting, dark clothing, and driver fatigue can increase the likelihood of an accident.

Mid-block dart-outs

Sometimes, pedestrians cross roads mid-block rather than at an intersection. While this can be risky, drivers still have a duty to stay alert and respond appropriately.

Parking lot accidents

Low-speed zones like parking lots might seem safe, but pedestrians are often hit by reversing or inattentive drivers.

Safety Measures To Prevent Pedestrian Accidents

While drivers carry much of the responsibility for roadway safety, there are steps pedestrians can take to reduce their risk of being hit. As personal injury attorneys who’ve handled numerous pedestrian cases in Denver, we encourage the following safety practices:

  • Always use marked crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before stepping onto the road, especially at intersections.
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night or in low-light conditions.
  • Avoid distractions like phones or earbuds while crossing the street.
  • Teach children pedestrian safety early, especially in school zones or neighborhoods with heavy traffic.
  • Walk facing traffic when sidewalks are unavailable.

At the same time, city officials and transportation agencies must ensure crosswalks are visible, speed limits are enforced, and public awareness campaigns are in place. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), recent data show that nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in 2021 alone. Many of these tragedies were preventable.

What To Do If You Are Having A Pedestrian Accident?

If you’ve been hit by a vehicle, what you do next can make a difference in your recovery—and your legal case. Here’s what we advise:

1. Seek medical attention immediately

Even if your injuries seem minor, symptoms can develop later. Prompt medical care not only protects your health, but it also creates vital documentation of your injuries.

2. Call 911 and report the accident

A police report is an essential piece of evidence. Make sure officers document the scene, collect statements, and record driver and witness information.

3. Take photos and collect evidence

If possible, photograph the scene, your injuries, the vehicle involved, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.

4. Avoid giving detailed statements to insurance companies

Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly, but remember, their goal is to minimize payouts. Never admit fault or downplay your injuries. Instead, speak with an attorney first.

5. Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer

Colorado’s statute of limitations generally gives you three years to file a personal injury claim after a pedestrian accident. But gathering evidence, speaking with doctors, and negotiating with insurers takes time. Working with a firm that prioritizes personal, hands-on representation makes a difference.

Remington W. Fang

A Colorado Springs native with a lifelong passion for standing up to bullies, Remington fights for the injured against corporations that put profit over people. Raised in a family devoted to service and healing, he brings compassion and grit to every case.

A graduate of the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Arkansas School of Law, Remington has recovered millions for clients with Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver. He believes no injury should silence the human spirit — and he won’t stop fighting until justice is served. See Remington in AVVO.

We’re Here To Help You Get Your Life Back On Track

At Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver, we know that pedestrian accident injuries can derail every aspect of your life. From missed work and mounting medical bills to the emotional toll of recovery, you deserve legal representation that treats you like a person, not a case number.

If you or a loved one has been injured while walking in Denver, call us today at 720-379-6363 for a free, no-pressure consultation. You pay nothing until we win.

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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. It was approved by Remington W. Fang, our Founding Partner, who brings over 10 years of experience as a personal injury attorney.