Get Help For Any Type Of Injury Case

What to Do Post-Accident in Colorado

CASE EVALUATIONS ARE FAST, EASY, AND FREE.

In Colorado, car accident cases are governed by several specific rules that affect how liability is determined, how damages can be recovered, and the timeline for taking legal action. Knowing what steps to take after a car crash in Colorado can make a significant difference in how smoothly your recovery goes and how well you can protect your rights.

This guide will provide an in-depth look at what you should do after an accident, your legal options, and common mistakes to avoid. Our car accident lawyers in Colorado at Craig Swapp & Associates are here to guide and assist those injured in car accidents to ensure that justice is served and appropriate compensation is obtained.

Understanding Colorado Car Accident Laws

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning that the degree of fault assigned to each driver impacts the ability to recover damages. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you may not be entitled to compensation.

The state also requires that all drivers carry a minimum level of insurance, including liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage.

It is essential to understand these Colorado car accident laws as they dictate who pays for damages and medical bills after a crash. Consulting with a car accident lawyer in Colorado can help you understand these laws better and protect your rights.

Things to Do After a Car Accident in Colorado

If you are involved in a car accident in Colorado, your actions in the moments and days following the collision can have a profound impact on your health and legal rights.

Here are the steps to take immediately after the crash:

Ensure Safety First: Move yourself and your vehicle to a safe location, if possible. Avoid staying on busy roadways to prevent secondary accidents.

Call 911: Reporting the accident to the police is crucial. The police report will become an important piece of evidence for any possible car accident claim in Colorado.

Seek Medical Attention: Whether your injuries are severe or minor, seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Even minor symptoms could indicate something more serious later.

Gather Information: Collect names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information from all parties involved. Take pictures of the scene, damages, and injuries, if possible.

Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company of the accident. Be truthful, but avoid making statements that could imply fault.

Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a car accident lawyer in Colorado for guidance. Our experienced team of lawyers in Colorado can help evaluate your case and protect your interests.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Colorado

Knowing what not to do after an accident is just as important as knowing what to do.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid after being involved in a Colorado car accident:

Not Reporting the Accident: A police report provides an official record of the accident, which can be crucial in proving liability and establishing your car accident claims in Colorado.
Admitting Fault: Refrain from admitting fault, even if you feel you may have caused the accident; fault determination is complex.
Delaying Medical Attention: Failing to seek timely medical attention can worsen your health and weaken your claim. The opposing insurance company might argue that your injuries were not severe or not related to the accident.
Talking to Insurer without Legal Representation: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim. Always consult a Colorado personal injury lawyer before speaking with an insurance company.

Legal Options to Recover Damages After an Accident

Colorado allows accident victims to file a claim with their own insurance or pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. However, navigating these processes without proper representation can be challenging.

Depending on the details of your accident, you may be able to recover damages for:

Medical Bills: Current and future medical costs.
Lost Wages: Compensation for any work missed due to the accident.
Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal belongings.

Car accident attorneys are well-versed in handling car accident claims in Colorado. They can help you build a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your claim to court.

Depending on the details of your accident, you may be able to recover damages for:

Medical Bills: Current and future medical costs.
Lost Wages: Compensation for any work missed due to the accident.
Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal belongings.

Colorado’s Time Limit in Filing a Case After an Accident

There is a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims, such as car accidents. According to Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-80-101, you generally have 3 years from the date of the car accident to file a claim for property damage or personal injuries. If you do not take legal action within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

There are certain exceptions that may extend or shorten the statute of limitations, such as if the injured party was a minor at the time of the accident or if the other driver left the scene without being identified. Working with a Colorado personal injury lawyer can help ensure that you meet all the necessary deadlines.

Taking the First Step with a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer on Your Side

Knowing what to do following a car accident in Colorado can significantly impact the outcome of any legal claims you pursue. Understanding your rights and options is crucial in making sure that you receive the compensation you deserve. From the moments following the crash to filing a legal claim, every step matters.

Our car accident attorneys at Craig Swapp & Associates are dedicated to helping victims of Colorado car accidents recover the damages they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, we are here to advocate for your rights and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life – “one call, that’s all!”

Call us today at 1-720-794-9975 or answer our online form to schedule your free consultation.

Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp

Schedule a Free Consultation

Full Name(Required)

Telephone(Required)

Email(Required)

Preferred Contact Method(Required)

Brief Description of Case(Required)

Comments

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Client Reviews

“I was concerned with all the paperwork”

Before calling your firm I had 2 big worries. One was I didn’t want to do more paper work, and that fear was resolved when I had to do very little, but Craig Swapp and Assoc. did most of it, and when I did have to come in to sign papers they worked around the times I could do it. Worry 2 was I didn’t want people to think I was “sue happy” and that I was just out to get money. I just wanted my bills to be paid for that were from the accident, and that was resolved I think by Mr. Wes Mortenson and Theresa because they listened to what I had to say.

Amber W.,

Spokane, WA

"I would hire them in a second"

My biggest fear was not having all the expenses caused by the accident paid for in full. I was assured they would be taken care of but I admit I was skeptical. When we wrapped everything up (which happened quicker than I was originally told) I had extra money in my pocket. I honestly thought there was a catch but my attorney explained everything to me in detail. If I am ever in that position again I’ll be giving Craig Swapp a call.

Robert N.,

Spokane, WA

"I was afraid of the fees"

I was afraid of the fees I would have to pay a lawyer. I waited over a year before hiring your law firm. I finally reached out to your online help where they were able to help me understand the process and what would happen. In all honesty I absolutely loved working with the individuals that were involved in my case. They were genuine & heartfelt about my case. It felt as though they really cared and were concerned about me, not just as a client but as a person.

Lacey B.,

Salt Lake City, UT

"I was afraid that my issue was too small"

I was afraid that my issue was too small to be handled, and that it would just be rejected. Or that I’d end up having to pay for my medical expenses and any of your teams expenses. I would definitely answer yes, it was resolved! I wasn’t ever made out to feel like my little issue didn’t matter, and my expenses were paid for- just what I wanted/needed.

J. Rohas,

Caldwell, ID

"I am very pleased with the results"

My biggest fear was that it would be pointless to pursue legal action in my case. I felt like maybe I didn’t have much of a case. After speaking with Paul, I realize it was not of my own fault and that others can be held responsible for the pain and suffering I went through.

Dollie J.,

West Jordan, UT

READ ALL TESTIMONIALS