Last year was one of the deadliest on record for pedestrians in Colorado, according to latest figures.
In 2025, 127 pedestrians were killed in Colorado, which is about double the number killed just 10 years ago. Pedestrians now account for nearly one-fifth of all traffic fatalities in the state.
In response, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), has launched a new campaign ‘Shift into Safe’ reminding motorists to slow down and exercise extra caution, particularly in neighborhoods and urban areas.
“The disturbing rise in pedestrian fatalities is not just a statistic – each one could be any of us, crossing the street over the course of our day,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “When you’re behind the wheel, respect traffic safety laws and be mindful that doing so can save lives.”
This new campaign highlights the fact that more than 70% of pedestrian deaths happen after dark. As Coloradans begin to spend more time outdoors this spring, CDOT is urging the public to follow these essential safety tips:
- For Drivers: Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, use extra caution in residential areas, never drive impaired or distracted and remain extra vigilant in dark conditions
- For Pedestrians: Use marked crosswalks, follow “Walk” and “Don’t Walk” signals, and remain alert
Improvements to infrastructure to protect vulnerable roadway users is also a top priority for CDOT with the state prioritizing better-connected bike lanes, improved crosswalk visibility and more robust pedestrian-focused signal timing.
