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DENVER, Denver County, Colo., Sept. 20, 2026 — A pedestrian suffered serious injuries early on Sunday morning, September 20, in a crash with a vehicle near North Quebec Street and eastbound I-70.
Denver police said the crash happened in the area where the eastbound I-70 off-ramp meets North Quebec Street. One person was taken to a hospital with serious injuries, officials said. The driver involved stayed at the scene, according to the police.
The off-ramp at Quebec Street was closed following the crash, and authorities urged drivers to use alternate routes while the closure was in effect. It was not immediately clear how long the ramp would remain closed.
Denver police said they are investigating the crash. No further details, including the pedestrian's age or gender or the circumstances leading up to the crash, had been released as of this writing.
We offer our deepest sympathy to the family of the victim.
Pedestrian Crashes and What the Numbers Show
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian deaths accounted for 18 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2023. That means nearly one in five people killed on US roads that year were walking, not riding in a vehicle, when they were struck.
That share has grown over the past decade even as overall traffic deaths have leveled off in some years. Pedestrians have little protection in a collision, so crashes that a driver or passenger might walk away from can leave a person on foot with serious injuries or worse.
Interchange areas and ramps, like the one near North Quebec Street and I-70, present particular challenges. Drivers merging or exiting are usually focused on traffic flow rather than watching for people on foot, and pedestrians in those zones may be harder to see amid ramp geometry and speed changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are most common in pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians usually suffer broken bones, head and brain injuries, spinal injuries, and internal injuries. Because there's no vehicle frame to absorb impact, even lower-speed crashes can cause serious harm.
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Distracted driving, failure to yield at crossings, poor visibility, and speeding are frequent factors. Ramp and interchange areas can add risk when drivers are focused on merging rather than scanning for people on foot.
How does vehicle speed affect pedestrian survival?
Survival rates drop sharply as vehicle speed increases. A pedestrian struck at lower speeds has a much better chance of survival than one struck at highway speeds.
Where do most pedestrian accidents happen?
Many occur at or near intersections, crosswalks, and ramps where vehicle and pedestrian paths cross. Poor lighting and limited sightlines can add to the risk in these areas.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Denver, CO
If you're involved in or witness a pedestrian crash, call 911 immediately so responders can reach the scene quickly. Do not move an injured person unless there's an immediate danger, and wait for paramedics to evaluate them.
Even if injuries seem minor at first, it's wise to get checked by a medical professional, since some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, aren't obvious right away. Cooperate with responding officers and provide an honest account of what you saw or experienced.
If you're a driver involved in this kind of crash, stay at the scene and exchange information as required by Colorado law. Anyone with information about a pedestrian crash in Denver is encouraged to contact the Denver Police Department.
