At Boesen Law, we understand the frustration and stress that come from being involved in a car accident, especially when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Our experienced team of car accident lawyers is dedicated to exploring every possible avenue to help you recover financially and emotionally.
We’ve seen firsthand how complex and stressful uninsured motorist cases can be, which is why we focus on crafting strategies that maximize your compensation, even in difficult circumstances.
Reach out to our law firm for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today. Call our personal injury lawyers in the state of Colorado at (303) 999-9999 or contact us online.
What You Need to Know About Colorado’s Auto Insurance Requirements
Colorado’s insurance laws outline both the mandatory requirements for drivers and the optional coverages that can significantly impact your financial recovery.
- Colorado’s liability insurance standards: Colorado law mandates that all drivers carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage, along with $15,000 for property damage. However, even these minimums may be inadequate when facing severe injuries or extensive vehicle damage.
- Optional but vital uninsured motorist coverage: While not required, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is a safeguard that many drivers overlook. This type of insurance can be a financial lifesaver if you’re hit by someone without coverage, stepping in to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Your Auto Insurance Policy
Uninsured motorist coverage isn’t just an extra line item; it’s a vital part of your protection plan. This coverage pays for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages when the responsible party has no insurance. At Boesen Law, we help clients navigate the complexities of activating this coverage, making sure that insurance companies fulfill their obligations and provide the compensation outlined in your policy.
Can I Sue an Uninsured Driver in Colorado?
Yes, you can sue an uninsured driver in Colorado, but the process can be complex. If the driver who caused your accident has assets, it may be possible to file a lawsuit to recover damages for your medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. However, even if you win the case and the court awards you a judgment, collecting the money is not guaranteed. Many uninsured drivers lack the financial resources to pay, which can make recovery difficult. Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer in Denver is crucial. They can help assess the situation, explore other compensation options—such as your uninsured motorist coverage—and determine the best course of action for your case.
Who’s Legally Responsible When the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
Responsibility in uninsured motorist accidents can be complicated. Colorado’s comparative negligence laws may play a role, particularly if there’s any question about shared fault. Even in these situations, you have options for pursuing compensation.
- Analyzing fault in uninsured motorist accidents: Determining who is at fault involves a meticulous investigation, including reviewing police reports, accident reconstruction data, and eyewitness accounts. The expertise of our uninsured motorist accident lawyers ensures that we can clearly establish liability, even when the details are murky.
- Exploring alternative avenues for compensation: If the at-fault driver is uninsured, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. We investigate every possible source of recovery, such as looking into the potential liability of a vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the crash or pursuing a claim against a government entity if poor road conditions were involved.
- Understanding Colorado’s comparative negligence rule: Colorado law allows you to recover damages even if you’re partially at fault, as long as your share of the blame is less than 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. This makes it crucial to minimize any claims of negligence against you, and our team is skilled at building strong cases to do just that.
At Boesen Law, we explore every potential path to recovery and work relentlessly to ensure that you’re not left bearing the financial burden of someone else’s mistake.
Injuries You May Be Able to Claim After an Uninsured Motorist Accident
We ensure your claim reflects the full extent of your injuries. Here are some common injuries you may be able to claim:
- Traumatic brain injuries: From concussions to more severe brain damage, often requiring long-term treatment.
- Spinal cord injuries: Can result in partial or full paralysis, needing ongoing medical care.
- Broken bones: Fractures that may require surgery and extended physical therapy.
- Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash and ligament damage, sometimes causing chronic pain.
- Internal injuries: Damage to organs that may necessitate emergency medical intervention.
- Emotional trauma: Anxiety, PTSD, and psychological stress that impact daily life.
We work with medical professionals to fully document your injuries, pursuing compensation that addresses both your immediate and long-term recovery needs.
Pursuing Compensation After an Uninsured Motorist Accident
Our team focuses on making sure no detail goes unnoticed and every potential avenue for recovery is pursued. Here’s a breakdown of the types of compensation you may be entitled to claim:
Medical Costs, Rehabilitation, and Ongoing Care
The impact of a serious car accident can be lifelong, requiring not just immediate medical treatment but also long-term care, therapy, and even home modifications if your injuries are severe.
Lost Income and Future Earning Capacity
Beyond just lost wages, we assess your diminished earning capacity and the career opportunities you may miss because of your injuries.
Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress
Compensation for emotional suffering acknowledges the emotional toll, covering aspects like anxiety, depression, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that may develop following the accident. We also factor in the impact on your quality of life, whether it’s the inability to enjoy hobbies you once loved or the strain on your personal relationships.
Can You Go to Jail for Driving Without Insurance in Colorado?
Yes, driving without insurance in Colorado can result in severe penalties, including the possibility of jail time for repeat offenses. For a first offense, the penalties typically include a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000. However, if you are caught driving without insurance a second time or more, the consequences become more severe. In addition to higher fines, you could face a jail sentence of 10 days to one year. Beyond these penalties, you may also face a suspension of your driver’s license, increased insurance premiums, and points added to your driving record. To avoid these consequences, it’s essential to carry at least the minimum required insurance coverage.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Uninsured Motorist Claims in Colorado?
In Colorado, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file an uninsured motorist (UM) insurance claim or initiate arbitration. This timeframe is outlined under Colorado statutes and applies to cases involving accidents caused by uninsured drivers. If the claim is related to bodily injury, the three-year limit begins when the injury is discovered or should have reasonably been discovered. It’s important to act promptly, as missing this deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help ensure your claim is filed on time and handled effectively.
Why Boesen Law Is Your Trusted Partner for Uninsured Motorist Accidents in Denver
Choosing the right law firm to represent you in an uninsured motorist case is a decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. At Boesen Law, we bring decades of experience, a track record of success, and a client-first approach to every case we handle.
- Proven experience and success in accident cases: Our team has secured millions of dollars in compensation for car accident victims, and we have the results to prove it. We understand the intricacies of Colorado’s laws and have a proven strategy for dealing with uninsured motorist claims.
- Available for you 24/7 with no fees unless we win: We know that accidents don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Our team is available around the clock to answer your questions and provide guidance. Plus, our contingency fee arrangement means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.
We invite you to review our case results and see how we’ve helped others in situations similar to yours. When you’re ready, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you, fighting for the justice and financial security you deserve.
Reach out to our law firm for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today. Call our personal injury lawyers in the state of Colorado at (303) 999-9999 or contact us online.
Content Reviewed By
Car Accidents Articles
