What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

Jun 09, 2024

Being in a car accident can throw you for a loop, often leaving you wondering what you should do next. Along with handling potential injuries and vehicle repairs, victims must also navigate the often complicated legal system to claim compensation in Colorado to recover financially.

In such circumstances, hiring a car accident lawyer at Boesen Law can play a critical role in helping you understand your rights, manage interactions with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation. Today, we show you how a personal injury lawyer can help you after a car accident.

1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation

The first step in working with a car accident lawyer is the initial consultation and case evaluation. During this meeting, our lawyers will listen to your account of the accident, review any available evidence, and provide an overview of your legal rights and options. This is an opportunity to determine whether you have a valid case under Colorado law.

Given that thousands of car accidents occur each year in Denver, with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) estimating that 85% of crashes are due to improper driver behavior, understanding your position is necessary for efficient legal action.

Determining if You Have a Valid Case in Colorado

During the initial consultation, our lawyers will evaluate the details of your case to determine its viability. This involves assessing the circumstances of the accident, reviewing any evidence, and considering relevant Colorado laws. For example, an essential component of Colorado law we’ll consider is the comparative fault rule, which can alter the compensation you’re awarded if you’re found to share some fault.

Under Colorado’s modified comparative fault rule, your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering any damages at all. This makes it crucial to accurately establish the degree of fault for all parties involved.

2. Investigating the Accident

A thorough investigation is key to building a strong case. Our team will examine the accident scene, consult with accident reconstruction experts if necessary, and review medical records to understand the extent of your injuries. Gathering comprehensive evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and photographic documentation, is critical to establishing fault and supporting your claim.

Evidence Required for Your Case Construction

To construct a solid case, the lawyer will collect various forms of evidence. This includes obtaining police reports that provide official documentation of the accident, gathering witness statements that offer additional perspectives on the incident, and compiling photographic evidence that visually represents the scene and damages. These pieces of evidence are crucial for demonstrating the negligence of the other party and the impact of the accident on your life.

3. Handling Communication with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies is often one of the most challenging aspects of a car accident claim. Insurers typically aim to minimize payouts, which can result in settlements that are far less than what victims deserve. Our lawyers will handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you do not make statements that could harm your case. We will negotiate aggressively to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Insurance Companies Typically Offer Less Than Fair Settlements – We’ll Fight for Your Right to Fair Compensation

Our team understands the tactics insurance companies use to undervalue claims and is prepared to counter them effectively. By presenting well-documented evidence and a compelling argument for your compensation, our lawyer will fight to ensure that you receive a settlement that fully reflects the extent of your damages. This includes negotiating for fair compensation and, if necessary, preparing to take the case to court.

4. Calculating and Pursuing Compensation

Your lawyer will meticulously calculate your medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. This comprehensive evaluation includes not only your current financial losses but also future expenses and non-economic damages that may affect your quality of life.

Types of Compensation You Can Claim in Colorado

In Colorado, car accident victims can claim various types of compensation. These include:

  • Medical expenses: Document all medical costs related to the accident, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any ongoing or future medical treatments. This ensures that every aspect of your healthcare needs is covered.
  • Lost income: Calculate the wages lost due to your inability to work during your recovery period. This includes both past and future lost earnings if your injuries have long-term or permanent impacts on your ability to earn an income.
  • Property damage: Assess the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident. Accurate valuation ensures that you are reimbursed for all repair or replacement costs.
  • Pain and suffering: Evaluate the non-economic damages such as physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact of the accident on your quality of life. This calculation can be complex, but it is crucial to ensure that your compensation reflects the true extent of your suffering.

By thoroughly calculating your damages and pursuing all avenues for compensation, your lawyer helps to secure a settlement that fully addresses your needs and supports your recovery.

5. Providing Emotional Support and Peace of Mind

At Boesen Law, we understand that a car accident doesn’t just leave physical scars; it can also take a significant emotional toll. And our dedicated team is committed to supporting you through every step of the legal process, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and reassured.

When you work with us, you’re not just another case number. We take the time to truly get to know you and understand the unique challenges you face. Our team is here to answer all your questions, help you navigate the complex legal landscape, and alleviate the stress of dealing with insurance companies and legal paperwork.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney at Boesen Law – Decades of Experience Serving Injured People in Colorado

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, seeking legal assistance promptly can help protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are dedicated to fighting for your recovery and securing the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards justice.