Imagine being out on a lovely sunny road in Colorado just to be smacked into by another car! Now, with all those mounting medical bills, you are unable to work, and the insurance company is taking you on a merry-go-round. Pretty much the situation, right? A Colorado car injury lawyer could really come in handy in such a case.
The article herein is a comprehensive “after-the-car-wreck” guide. It highlights that Colorado has specific laws concerning vehicle collisions, procedures for dealing with insurance, as well as the duties of a lawyer. We will also look at typical injuries and how to maximize compensation after suffering one. Let’s get started.
Understanding Colorado Car Accident Laws
There are Colorado-specific laws that affect your car accident claim. Understanding these laws becomes very important to safeguard the rights you have and to seek the compensation that you deserve.
A Fault-Based System in Colorado
Colorado is a “fault” state, which means the driver that caused the accident is responsible for damages. Their insurance is responsible for covering medical bills and car repairs. Knowing who is at fault is one of the key first steps.
Modified Comparative Negligence
What happens when you were partly at fault? Colorado has a modified comparative negligence rule; therefore, if you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but they will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributable to you. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, you would receive 80% of your damages. The only time you receive nothing is when you are 50% at fault or more.
Statute of Limitations
There is a statute of limitations on filing a car accident claim. In Colorado, a person can file a claim for three years after the date of the accident. So, if you stick around for more years, most likely, you will lose the right to sue. Do not delay! Speak to a lawyer right away.
Common Types of Injuries from Car Accidents
Most injuries from car accidents are wide-ranging. Some are minor while others result in life change. The following are some of them.
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
The striking of the rear-ends of full-size boomers as dangers, in order that it becomes exceedingly rare to reach finally achieve a whiplash, is emphasized in this article. This gentle injury is characterized by the back-and-forth jerking of the head. It can cause pain in the neck, back, and shoulders. Soft tissue injuries can take a long while to heal and may alter your life.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
In a term-Whoever does not treat severely- a TBI should not be considered lightly. These injuries can result from someone banging his head against something hard during a crash. TBIs can interfere with one’s memory, attention, and even mood. Prompt medical treatment is critical, and it can be costly.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries merit serious consideration. They could lead to paralysis or loss of sensation in the body. Lifelong and overwhelming expenses are incurred in caring for these victims. The injuries would forever change one’s life.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Colorado
Knowing what to do after a wreck is very important. These actions can protect your health and any legal options you may pursue. Here is a course of action.
Safety Care and Reporting the Accident
First considered are people’s safety. If possible, move the vehicles into a safe area. Call 911, so the police prepare a report.
Gathering Evidence At The Scene
If at all possible, take photos of the accident. Get pics of the cars, the damages, and any injuries. Be sure to get names and contact information for all witnesses of the crash. This evidence aids in creating a firm claim.
Seeking Medical Attention
See a doctor as soon as possible! Even if you happen to feel well. Some injuries do not manifest immediately. Very importantly, a doctor will be able to detect them for you. This is important evidence for your claim.
How a Colorado Car Injury Lawyer Will Help
In this case, a lawyer for car injury does the job. He or she lays down the entire road but fights for you with toil and sweat. This is how they function.
How the Accident is Investigated for the Strongest Case
The lawyers look into the accident. They bring in evidence and call witnesses and sometimes even the mock accident. This becomes the proof of the fault. A stronger case increases the chances of deserving compensation.
Negotiating With The Insurance Company
Insurance firms want to pay as little as possible. Hence, they may attempt to deceive or put pressure on you. The lawyer will be acquainted with their tactics and be able to assist you in negotiating for a better deal.
Filing Lawsuit And Defend You In Court
If without a fair settlement you are forced to make a lawsuit against the company, the lawyers can take steps to file the suit and represent you in court in an action that would be built against that insurance in front of a judge or jury.
Maximizing Your Car Accident Settlement In Colorado
What Can You Be Compensated For Following A Car Crash? There Are Different Types Of Damages Available. Let’s Look At Some Of Them.
Economic Damages
These are referred to as economic damages, or damage to your pockets. They comprise elements such as:
- Medical expenses – both past and future
- Wages lost while out of work
- The cost of repairing your car
Conclusion
The car accident laws in Colorado may be bewildering. Getting hurt in an accident can be very frustrating. One does not have to go through this alone. Getting a grasp of the laws, seeking medical help, and finding a Colorado car injury lawyer are necessary. One protects his rights and attains the just financial compensation.
