Pedestrian deaths in Colorado have risen by 88% since 2015, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). The agency, together with Bicycle Colorado, launched a new campaign in Colorado Springs to raise awareness about pedestrian and bicycle safety. Signs placed around Memorial Park highlighted recent fatalities and existing laws aimed at protecting non-motorized road users.
The campaign comes ahead of Pedestrian Safety Month in October. Historically, the end of daylight savings time has been a dangerous period for pedestrians. In October 2024 alone, there were 17 pedestrian fatalities—the highest monthly total last year. Overall, 120 pedestrians died on Colorado roads in 2024.
El Paso County experienced a significant increase in pedestrian deaths: from six fatalities ten years ago to sixteen in 2024—a rise of 167%. CDOT officials, Bicycle Colorado representatives, safety advocates, and victims’ families gathered at Memorial Park to address these concerns.
“Simply put, the safety of pedestrians is the safety of all roadway users. Ahead of Pedestrian Safety Month, CDOT and our partners are reminding all Coloradans to look out for one another, whether you’re driving, walking or biking,” said CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk. “The rise in pedestrian deaths over the past decade is alarming. All road users have a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe.”
Adams County (22), Denver (18), and El Paso County (16) accounted for nearly half—47%—of all pedestrian fatalities last year. Most incidents occurred during evening or nighttime hours; specifically, 65% happened when it was dark. In total, there were 78 such nighttime fatalities statewide in 2024.
Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol stated: “Pedestrian deaths are steadily increasing in the state, and we are determined to reverse this trend. Cars do not own our roadways, which is why we need to share the road so that all travelers, no matter their mode of travel, arrive safely at their destinations.”
CDOT also reported that most fatal incidents occurred outside crosswalks—81 cases or 68%—last year. The department urges pedestrians to use crosswalks and sidewalks whenever possible and reminds drivers to remain alert near intersections and avoid distractions.
State law gives pedestrians right-of-way at marked or unmarked crosswalks when signals indicate it is safe to cross but prohibits crossing streets outside designated areas except when yielding properly. Pedestrians must use sidewalks if available; otherwise they should walk facing traffic on the left side of the road.
Pete Piccolo, Executive Director of Bicycle Colorado said: “Vulnerable road users simply do not have the protections of those inside vehicles. Our team is determined to keep all travelers safe especially those outside of vehicles who bike walk and roll.” He added: “Bicycle Colorado is thrilled to partner with CDOT to promote safe behaviors on Colorado’s roads. It’s critical that everyone is aware of and follows traffic laws that keep all users safe.”
