Pedestrian Rights in a Colorado Crosswalk

Colorado pedestrian laws at a glance

Crosswalks without working signals: under C.R.S. § 42-4-802(1), when traffic signals are not in place or not operating, a driver must yield to a pedestrian crossing within a crosswalk, slowing down or stopping if needed, when the pedestrian is on the driver's half of the roadway or approaching so closely from the other half as to be in danger.

Walk signals: under C.R.S. § 42-4-802(5), pedestrians facing a steady "Walk" signal may cross and must be given the right-of-way by all drivers. On a flashing "Don't Walk," a pedestrian should not start crossing, but someone already partway across may finish, and drivers must yield to them.

Cars stopped at a crosswalk: C.R.S. § 42-4-802(4) prohibits a driver approaching from behind from passing a vehicle that has stopped at a marked crosswalk, or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, to let a pedestrian cross.

Pedestrian duties: a pedestrian may not suddenly leave a curb into the path of a vehicle so close that it is an immediate hazard (C.R.S. § 42-4-802(3)). Outside a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, the pedestrian must yield to vehicles, and between adjacent signalized intersections, pedestrians may cross only in a marked crosswalk (C.R.S. § 42-4-803).

How fault and deadlines work in a pedestrian claim

Colorado uses modified comparative negligence. Under C.R.S. § 13-21-111, an injured pedestrian can still recover if their share of fault is less than the driver's, but the damages are reduced by their percentage. If the pedestrian's fault is equal to or greater than the driver's, there is no recovery. That is why the right-of-way facts, and not an apology or a guess at the scene, should decide who was at fault.

Under C.R.S. § 13-80-101(1)(n), tort claims for bodily injury arising from the use or operation of a motor vehicle generally must be filed within three years. If a city vehicle, bus, or other government vehicle was involved, a separate and much shorter notice requirement may apply, so do not wait to ask.

Why crosswalk crashes are a growing Colorado problem

According to a March 13, 2026 Colorado Department of Transportation release, 127 pedestrians were killed on Colorado roadways in 2025, about double the number killed ten years earlier, and pedestrians now account for nearly one-fifth of all traffic deaths in the state. From 2020 through 2025, Denver recorded 140 pedestrian fatalities, the highest of the five counties CDOT says accounted for most of these deaths, and CDOT reports that more than 70% of pedestrian deaths happen after dark.

Do pedestrians always have the right of way in Colorado?

No. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk when signals are not operating, and to pedestrians crossing on a steady "Walk" signal. But a pedestrian crossing outside a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection must yield to vehicles, and a pedestrian may not step suddenly into the path of a vehicle too close to stop. Which rule applies depends on where and how the crash happened.

What if I was partly at fault for a crosswalk accident?

Partial fault does not automatically end a Colorado claim. Under the comparative negligence statute, you may recover if your share of fault is less than the driver's, with your damages reduced by your percentage. Fault is often disputed in pedestrian cases, so signal timing, photos, witness statements, and the crash report matter.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Colorado?

Most injury claims arising from a motor vehicle crash must be filed within three years. Claims involving a government vehicle or a dangerous public roadway can carry much shorter notice deadlines, so it is worth getting the timeline reviewed early.

When should I talk to a Denver pedestrian accident lawyer?

Before you give a recorded statement, sign a medical release, or accept a settlement offer. Conduit Law can review the crosswalk facts, the signal and fault questions, and the insurance available. The consultation is free, and there are no fees unless we win. Call (720) 432-7032.