Pedestrian Fatality in Hit-And-Run Accident Near Empower Field, Denver, CO
A devastating hit-and-run pedestrian accident occurred near Empower Field in Denver on the evening of January 11, 2025, around 8pm, claiming the life of a pedestrian, according to The Denver Post. The crash took place at the intersection of West Colfax Avenue and North Federal Boulevard when a black truck struck the victim and fled westbound without stopping to render aid or notify authorities. Empower Field is hosting the National Western Stock show January 11-26. The accident took place after a day of rodeo events in the stadium and just before the opening of the Colorado vs The World Rodeo Finals, starting at 8pm. It is unknown if the victim had been attending those events, but traffic was certainly busy on Saturday night at the time. North Federal Blvd. is a six-lane north-south connector that crosses the four-lane east-west connector West Colfax via an overpass. West Colfax is the former U.S. Highway 40 and is known as the “longest continuous commercial street in America.” It is not known whether the victim was on Federal or West Colfax at the time, nor have any details been released about the pedestrian, including their gender.
Denver Police are actively investigating the incident. The victim, who suffered severe injuries, was transported to the hospital but tragically passed away overnight. Photos of the suspected vehicle have been released, but no suspects have been identified.
Hit-and-run accidents leave victims and their families in shock, grief, and often searching for answers. As the Denver Police continue their investigation, they have urged anyone with information to come forward and offered a reward. For the family affected, understanding the legal recourse available can provide clarity and a path to justice. At Genco Injury Attorneys, we have seen the pain and frustration families face after a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident. We know how to help. With years of experience serving the Denver area, we are here to fight for justice and ensure that the negligent driver is held fully accountable.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a hit-and-run, contact Genco Injury Attorneys today via our website or by calling 303-500-1376 for our Denver or Aurora offices. We’ll work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
Hit-and-Run Accidents – A Legal Perspective
Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are among the most harrowing types of traffic collisions, as they often leave victims and their families in a state of emotional and financial turmoil. When a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing any aid or the necessary information, the injured party can face not only physical and emotional distress but also significant legal challenges. Victims and their surviving families are frequently left with a sense of uncertainty, as they may never know who caused the accident or if they will ever receive compensation for their losses.
The legal system in Colorado recognizes the severity of hit-and-run incidents and imposes strict penalties on those who flee the scene, especially in cases involving serious injury or death. These penalties include felony charges that can carry lengthy prison sentences, fines, and mandatory restitution to victims.
Families turn to Genco Injury Attorneys for help with these cases, as a wrongful death case is a separate action from the criminal negligence prosecution of a driver leaving the scene of an injury accident that turned into a fatality. We provide clear guidance for our clients to take the steps required for full accountability and the timeframes mandated by Colorado law.
Legal Process for Victims and Their Families
Seeking justice and closure often involves multiple legal steps for victims and their families, including criminal prosecution of the at-fault driver and civil litigation for compensation. This is familiar legal territory for Genco Injury Attorneys; we can guide you and your family too. Here are some of the key processes involved:
1. Identifying the Driver
In hit-and-run accidents, the first challenge is often identifying the responsible driver. Without the driver’s contact information or insurance details, victims may feel helpless. However, there are various methods that can be employed to locate the driver:
Surveillance Footage: Many accidents occur in areas with security cameras, such as parking lots, intersections, or business premises. Law enforcement and attorneys can often obtain and analyze video footage to gather critical information, such as the make, model, and license plate number of the vehicle involved.
Eyewitness Accounts: Witnesses to the accident may be able to provide descriptions of the vehicle or the driver, which can help law enforcement piece together vital clues. In some cases, witnesses may also have noted the direction in which the driver fled.
Vehicle Damage: If parts of the suspect vehicle are left at the scene (such as debris or paint transfer), this can provide physical evidence that links the vehicle to the accident. Furthermore, the damage to the victim’s vehicle may help experts match it to the suspect’s vehicle in terms of impact location and force.
2. Filing Insurance Claims
Once the responsible driver is identified, or if the driver remains unknown, victims may turn to their own insurance coverage to seek compensation. In Colorado, most drivers are required to have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which can be a lifesaver in these situations. If the at-fault driver cannot be found or lacks sufficient insurance to cover the full cost of the damages, the victim can file a claim with their own insurer under their UM/UIM policy.
Uninsured Motorist Claims: If the responsible driver is never identified, the victim may still be eligible for compensation through their own uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage can help with medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
Underinsured Motorist Claims: In cases where the at-fault driver is identified but does not have enough insurance to cover the full extent of the damage, victims can use their underinsured motorist coverage to make up the difference.
3. Seeking Damages
In addition to criminal charges and insurance claims, victims and their families may pursue a civil lawsuit against the driver, if identified, or against the driver’s insurance company. This allows them to seek financial compensation for a range of damages, including but not limited to:
Medical Expenses: Victims of hit-and-run accidents often require immediate and long-term medical treatment for injuries sustained in the crash. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and other healthcare needs.
Funeral Costs: In tragic cases where a fatality occurs as a result of the accident, the family of the deceased may pursue compensation for funeral and burial expenses.
Pain and Suffering: Beyond physical injuries, victims of hit-and-run accidents often experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. These non-economic damages are factored into civil claims.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If the victim is unable to return to work because of their injuries, they can seek compensation for lost wages during recovery. In cases of permanent disability, they may also pursue damages for diminished earning potential.
Property Damage: Victims can seek reimbursement for the cost of repairs or replacement of their damaged vehicle. This can be part of the overall settlement or claim.
Genco Can Help Protect Your Rights After a Hit-and-Run
If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run crash, taking the following initial steps can protect your rights and help build a strong case:
Report the Incident Immediately: Contact the police and provide as much information as possible about the vehicle and circumstances of the crash.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, prompt medical care is critical for your health and to document your condition.
Document the Scene: If you can, take photos of the accident site, vehicles and damage, license plates, any debris, and injuries sustained.
Take Names: Get the name and address of everyone involved, including passengers and witnesses.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced lawyer can guide you through the steps to defend your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if needed, to hold a negligent driver accountable. Genco Injury Attorneys are as close as your phone, 24/7, to consult in the case of an accident. Contact Genco Injury Attorneys now via our website or by calling 303-500-1376.
The Role of a Denver Car Accident Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. The skilled Genco personal injury legal team can:
Investigate the Accident: Attorneys often work with accident reconstruction experts and other specialist investigators to uncover the truth.
Communicate with Insurers: Insurance companies may undervalue or deny claims, but an attorney can advocate for full and fair compensation.
File a Wrongful Death Claim: If a loved one has passed away, an attorney can help hold the responsible party accountable and seek justice for your family.
Hit & Run Accident Injury Claims and Why Hiring a Denver, CO Car Accident Lawyer May Be Necessary
Hit-and-run accidents and multi-vehicle collisions often involve intricate legal challenges, especially when the at-fault driver flees the scene or when liability is unclear. Victims may face hurdles in gathering evidence, dealing with insurance companies, and ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable. In a fatal case like this one, with the driver still at large, the family of the victim can rely on their legal team at Genco to help bring the negligent driver to justice.
Navigating the legal complexities requires thorough knowledge of Colorado traffic laws, insurance policies, and legal procedures. A Denver car accident lawyer can investigate the accident, collect crucial evidence like surveillance footage or witness statements, and ensure all responsible parties are identified.
Without legal guidance, victims risk being undercompensated or denied justice altogether. Hiring an attorney ensures you have a dedicated advocate to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
Common Injuries Found in Pedestrian Car Crashes and Their Life-Changing Consequences
Multi-vehicle crashes, particularly those involving pedestrians and other vulnerable road users such as cyclists, e-bike riders, and motorcyclists, can result in severe and life-altering injuries. These victims often face the devastating consequences of collisions that involve a combination of speed, impact force, and lack of protection. Unlike occupants of vehicles who are shielded by the structure of the car, these vulnerable individuals lack such safeguards, which increases the severity of injuries and the likelihood of long-term or permanent disability. In the case of fatal accidents, families are left to cope with the profound emotional, financial, and practical ramifications of their loss.
Life-Changing Consequences for Seriously Injured Victims
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Pedestrians, cyclists, e-bike riders, and motorcyclists are especially susceptible to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in a multi-vehicle crash. Even when wearing helmets, the impact from a collision can cause severe damage to the brain, resulting in long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments. TBIs can lead to a wide range of challenges including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, impaired motor skills, and changes in behavior and personality. For a seriously injured individual, the ability to return to work or engage in previously normal activities may be severely compromised.
Life-Altering Effects: For many victims, a traumatic brain injury can require lifelong care, including rehabilitation, therapy, and assistance with daily activities. Family members may need to take on the role of caregivers, which can alter family dynamics and impose additional stress.
Financial and Emotional Impact: The cost of medical care, including rehabilitation, home modifications, and ongoing therapy, can be overwhelming. Victims may also experience frustration and grief as they navigate life with cognitive limitations, and families are often left grappling with the emotional toll of seeing their loved one’s quality of life dramatically reduced.
Spinal Cord Injuries: A spinal cord injury is one of the most catastrophic injuries a victim can sustain in a multi-vehicle crash, especially for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists who are exposed to direct impacts. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis, either partial or complete, depending on the location and severity of the injury. This can result in a lifetime of medical treatments, physical therapy, and adaptive devices like wheelchairs.
Life-Altering Effects: Spinal cord injuries often mean a complete overhaul of a person’s lifestyle. Victims may lose their ability to walk, care for themselves, or participate in work and recreational activities. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are often necessary for a long period, but some degree of recovery is not always possible.
Financial and Emotional Impact: The lifetime costs of a spinal cord injury can be astronomical, as victims require around-the-clock care, adaptive equipment, and constant medical support. For families, it may mean a permanent shift in household responsibilities, often requiring loved ones to provide full-time care. The emotional strain of seeing a family member endure such a significant change can also be profound, affecting relationships and overall well-being.
Broken Bones and Fractures: Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to broken bones in crashes, often suffering fractures to the legs, arms, ribs, or pelvis. While some fractures heal over time, others can result in permanent deformities, long-term pain, or difficulty with movement.
Life-Altering Effects: Even seemingly “minor” fractures can cause significant disruptions in a person’s life, requiring long periods of immobilization and rehabilitation. In more severe cases, surgeries may be needed to correct broken bones, and the victim may be left with chronic pain or limited mobility.
Financial and Emotional Impact: Victims of serious fractures may face extended periods from work, potentially leading to lost income and a diminished quality of life. The emotional toll of being unable to resume normal activities, particularly in cases of fractures that impact mobility, can result in depression or anxiety. The financial burden also increases as victims may need ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and assistive devices.
Internal Organ Injuries: In high-impact crashes, pedestrians, cyclists, e-bike riders, and motorcyclists are at risk of severe internal injuries, including damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. These injuries often go unnoticed initially and can quickly worsen if not treated promptly. Internal bleeding, infections, or organ failure can occur, sometimes requiring surgeries or long hospital stays.
Life-Altering Effects: Internal organ injuries can be fatal or lead to permanent physical limitations, such as the loss of organ function. Victims may need lifelong medical care or require transplants, and complications can arise years after the initial injury.
Financial and Emotional Impact: The financial toll of treating internal organ injuries can be immense, particularly if a transplant or other long-term medical intervention is required. Victims often experience emotional trauma from the physical limitations imposed by their injuries and the ongoing uncertainty about their health. Families, too, face the stress of caring for a loved one who may require extensive medical supervision or assistance in performing daily tasks.
Consequences for Families of Fatally Injured Victims
When a pedestrian, cyclist, e-bike rider, or motorcyclist succumbs to their injuries in a multi-vehicle crash, the consequences for their family can be devastating. The emotional trauma of losing a loved one is compounded by the practical and financial challenges that arise after a fatality. Families must deal not only with grief but also with the immediate need for funeral and burial expenses, as well as the long-term loss of financial support if the victim was a primary wage-earner.
Emotional Impact: The emotional fallout from a fatality in a multi-vehicle crash can be overwhelming. Families often experience a deep sense of shock, grief, and loss, and they may struggle with the psychological effects for years to come. Survivors of fatal crashes can face depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which may impact their ability to work, care for children, or engage in social activities.
Financial Strain: In addition to funeral costs and burial expenses, families must cope with the loss of financial support. If the deceased victim was contributing to household income, the family may face financial hardship, especially if the surviving family members are unable to work due to emotional distress or caregiving responsibilities. Legal claims for wrongful death can help alleviate some of these financial burdens by providing compensation for lost wages, future earnings, medical bills, and other expenses.
Legal Recourse and Support: Seeking justice for a loved one’s death in a multi-vehicle crash is an important step for many families. This is what the Genco team does, defending the rights of these kinds of victims. In addition to criminal charges against the responsible driver, a civil wrongful death claim can provide compensation for the suffering caused by the fatality. Legal representation can help ensure that families receive full compensation for their loss, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
What To Do After a Serious Accident
The steps seem simple but the moments after a serious accident can be wrapped in confusion, depending on the extent of injuries. With an advocate like Dominic X. Genco and his team engaged at the outset, your case can proceed with confidence and you can focus on recovery.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, a medical evaluation ensures proper treatment and creates documentation for your case.
Report the Accident: Notify the police and provide detailed information about the incident, including descriptions of vehicles and drivers involved.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, injuries, and any vehicle damage. Gather witness contact information if possible.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone: Insurers may try to minimize your claim. Consult a lawyer before providing any statements.
Contact an Attorney: Engaging a personal injury lawyer early helps protect your rights and strengthens your case.
Assertive Accident Representation for Pedestrians – How Experienced Legal Representation Can Get You More Compensation, Faster
Denver is home to skilled personal injury attorneys who specialize in aggressively representing victims of car accidents, the Genco team being in the top tier. These professionals understand the complexities of Colorado’s legal system and are committed to securing justice for their clients.
From negotiating with insurance companies to taking cases to trial if necessary, Genco Personal Injury Attorneys offer comprehensive legal services tailored to the unique needs of each client. Their focus is not only on winning cases but also on ensuring victims and their families can rebuild their lives after a traumatic event.
Choosing a law firm with a proven track record of success can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Denver’s top personal injury lawyers, Genco, are ready to advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Large Insurance Companies Have Teams of Lawyers In-House
Insurance companies are profit-driven entities, and they employ teams of skilled lawyers to protect their bottom line. These professionals are trained to minimize payouts by scrutinizing claims and exploiting legal loopholes. Without proper representation, victims and their families often find themselves overwhelmed and undercompensated. Insurance lawyers may attempt to shift blame onto the victim or dispute the severity of injuries.
Hiring Genco Injury Attorneys levels the playing field, ensuring that your interests are represented and that insurance companies are held accountable.
Your Own Policy May Have Coverage
In hit-and-run or multi-vehicle accidents, victims often rely on their own insurance coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policies. These provisions can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver is unidentified or lacks sufficient coverage. This is not a bad strategy, but it is not enough. Understanding the nuances of your insurance policy is critical, as insurers may attempt to deny or limit payouts. Your Genco attorney can review your policy, identify applicable coverage, and advocate on your behalf to maximize compensation.
Fighting For Your Financial Rights After an Accident
After a serious accident, securing fair compensation involves more than filing a claim—it requires building a strong case to prove liability and damages. Victims must demonstrate the extent of their injuries, the financial impact of the accident, and the negligence of the at-fault party. Dominic Genco and his team works tirelessly to gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and calculate damages to ensure no expense or loss is overlooked.
What If My Car Accident Claim Is Denied?
Denial of a car vs. pedestrian accident claim can feel like a dead end, but it doesn’t mean you’re without options. Insurance companies may deny claims for various reasons, including alleged policy violations, disputes over liability, or failure to file paperwork on time. If your claim is denied, it’s essential to request a detailed explanation in writing. Better yet, call Genco and your lawyer can review the denial and determine if the insurance company acted in bad faith or failed to follow proper procedures. In many cases, a denied claim can be overturned with our help. We negotiate with the insurer, present additional evidence, or take the matter to court if necessary.
A Skilled Denver Car Accident Lawyer May Be Able to Overturn a Denial
This is where the Genco team can make all the difference when a car accident claim is denied. We use our extensive experience in insurance disputes to identify flaws in the denial process and leverage legal strategies to advocate for our clients. We may uncover new evidence, consult with experts, or highlight inconsistencies in the insurer’s reasoning. Our goal is to turn a denial into a fair settlement or a favorable verdict in court. Don’t let a denied claim discourage you. With legal representation by Genco, you can fight back and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.
Award-Winning Denver Front Range Personal Injury Lawyers – Call the Genco Injury Attorneys After a Car Accident
At Genco Injury Attorneys, our award-winning team has earned recognition for our dedication to justice and our exceptional client outcomes, measured in a 98% success rate and settlements in the millions. We serve the entire Front Range, providing personalized representation to accident victims in Denver, Aurora, and beyond.
We understand that every case is unique, and that’s how we approach each one, with the same level of commitment and care. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, we prioritize our clients’ needs and fight for maximum compensation. When you choose Genco Injury Attorneys, you’re choosing a firm with a proven track record of success and a passion for helping accident victims rebuild their lives.
Fast-Tracking Your Legal Settlement
Time is of the essence when recovering from a serious accident, but a victim and their family is often under financial pressure. At Genco Injury Attorneys, we strive to expedite the legal process without compromising the quality of representation. By efficiently gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, and utilizing our extensive legal expertise, we work to resolve cases quickly and effectively. We understand that victims need financial relief as soon as possible to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. Our team is committed to streamlining the settlement process while ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.
A Decade in Business – Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys
Our experience in all the facets of personal injury law has established the Genco Injury Attorneys’ reputation for excellence. We’ve seen it all and we know how to handle even the most complex cases. We leverage our deep knowledge of Colorado law and our understanding of the insurance industry to provide unparalleled representation. Our clients trust us to deliver results because we’ve done so time and time again.
Our Record of Success Proves It – We Know How to Win
Results matter, and at Genco Injury Attorneys, we’ve secured tens of millions of dollars for our clients. From negotiated settlements to court victories, we have a proven track record of achieving exceptional outcomes. Our success is built on a foundation of hard work, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to justice. When you work with us, you can feel confident knowing you have a team of experienced advocates in your corner.
Serving All Clients – A Bilingual Personal Injury Law Firm
Genco Injury Attorneys proudly serves both English and Spanish-speaking clients. We believe that language should never be a barrier to accessing justice, and our bilingual team is here to assist clients in their preferred language. By offering services in Spanish, we ensure that every client feels heard, understood, and supported throughout the legal process.
Always Open, 24 Hours a Day – 7 Days a Week
Everyone knows accidents don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, so neither do we. Genco Injury Attorneys is available 24/7 to answer your questions, provide legal guidance, and take action on your behalf. We are there when you need us. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a holiday weekend, you can count on us to be there when you need us most.
No Out-of-Pocket Costs Until Your Case Is Won
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay a dime unless we win your case. This ensures that anyone can access top-tier legal representation without worrying about upfront costs. Our commitment to your success is evident in everything we do, from our transparent fee structure to our relentless advocacy.
Call a Genco Car Accident Attorney Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation – and Get on the Road to Recovery
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run or any other type of auto accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The team at Genco Injury Attorneys is ready to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. No fees, free consultations, why wait? Contact Genco Injury Attorneys today via our website or by calling 303-500-1376. We’re as close as your phone and have offices in Denver and Aurora, serving the entire Denver front range.