Understanding Your Rights After a Car Accident in Colorado: Steps, Laws, and Legal Options
Car accidents can be traumatic and confusing, leaving you uncertain about your rights and the steps you need to take. It’s essential to understand what you are entitled to after an accident, whether you’re dealing with injuries, property damage, or a dispute over fault. This guide will help you navigate your rights and the actions you should take to protect them.
What Are My Rights After a Car Accident?
If you’ve been in a car accident, you are entitled to compensation for damages, injuries, and losses you suffer as a result of the crash. This includes:
- Medical Bills: Coverage for hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for any income lost due to the injury or accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional distress, mental anguish, and other non-economic damages.
In Colorado, you also have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit if the other driver is at fault for the accident.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
1. Remain at the Scene
If someone is injured or the accident causes significant damage, do not leave the scene. In Colorado, leaving the scene could result in criminal charges, including hit-and-run penalties. Ensure that everyone is safe, and if anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
2. Seek Medical Attention if Needed
Even if you don’t feel injured, seek medical evaluation. Some injuries, such as soft-tissue damage or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Documenting your injuries promptly will support any claims you make later.
3. Move to a Safe Area
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the shoulder of the road. If the vehicles are blocking traffic, this may lead to further accidents or injuries.
4. Record Information About the Other Vehicle
Collect vital details, including:
- License plate number
- Make, model, and color of the other vehicle
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), if possible
If you can’t get the VIN, it’s okay to focus on the other vehicle’s registration and insurance details.
5. Exchange Contact Information
Exchange insurance details, names, and contact information with all parties involved in the accident. Don’t forget to get the contact information of any witnesses who can provide testimony if necessary.
6. DO NOT Admit Fault
It’s crucial not to admit responsibility at the scene. Even if you believe you might be at fault, there could be contributing factors such as poor road design or faulty vehicle equipment that you’re unaware of.
Should I Contact an Attorney?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, consulting with an experienced car accident attorney is crucial. An attorney will help you understand your rights, navigate the insurance process, and ensure that you receive fair compensation. The attorneys at Boesen Law are skilled in handling car accident cases in Denver, Colorado, and can assist with your legal needs.
What If I’m Uninsured?
In Colorado, as a “No-Fault” state, your own insurance policy will typically cover medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. However, if your injuries are severe, you might be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Consult with an attorney to explore your options.
What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, you may still be eligible for compensation. Colorado law requires all drivers to have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This coverage helps pay for your damages if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident
Take Photos of the Accident Scene
Photos can be incredibly helpful in documenting the scene of the accident, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If it’s safe to do so, take clear, detailed photos.
Make a Record of Your Version of the Accident
Write down everything you remember about the accident, including:
- Time and date
- Cross streets and direction of travel
- Traffic signals, road conditions, and weather
This documentation is crucial for your claim and can prevent discrepancies in the future.
Report the Accident
In Colorado, you must report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if:
- Anyone is injured (even minor injuries)
- There’s property damage exceeding $1,000
- Someone is killed
Failure to report the accident could result in penalties or suspension of your driver’s license.
Common Car Accident Questions
Should I Report to My Insurance Company?
Yes, you should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if the accident wasn’t your fault. Early reporting helps ensure your insurer can assist with your claim and defend you if the other driver’s insurer contests your claim.
What If the Other Driver Flees the Scene?
If the other driver leaves the scene of the accident, you should immediately notify the police and provide as much detail as possible. Colorado law requires all drivers to stop and exchange information after an accident, and fleeing the scene can lead to severe consequences.
Denver Car Accident Attorneys
Understanding your rights after a car accident can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Denver, Colorado, the experienced attorneys at Boesen Law are here to help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in your case.
