The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has declared October to be National Pedestrian Safety month. The goal is to remind drivers and pedestrians that safety is a shared responsibility.

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has embraced the initiative with open arms. They’ve even teamed up with local farmers markets and store owners to help remind everyone of the dangers pedestrians face, whether they’re crossing a parking lot or a busy road.

2020 was particularly deadly in Colorado -- and 2021 isn’t much better

According to CDOT, there were 93 fatal collision with pedestrians in 2020 -- and 56 pedestrian deaths in 2021 so far. That’s roughly two deaths every week, and countless others suffer traumatic, life-changing injuries in such crashes.

In the words of Darrell Lingk, the Director of the Office of Transportation Safety, “We need to do more to educate the community with the focus on drivers and pedestrians.” In particular, CDOT is putting an emphasis on warning both drivers and pedestrians of the dangers of distractions.

To further draw attention to their efforts, the state has begun the “Left Behind” awareness campaign at local markets. The campaign has set up life-sized silhouettes, or “ghost pedestrians,” as a silent tribute to those who have died over the last year.

When a car hits a pedestrian, catastrophic injures can result

Being hit by a car while you’re trying to get through a parking lot with your groceries or crossing a street can leave you with devastating injuries that will change your entire life. If you’ve been injured, find out more about your right to compensation for your injuries.