Car accidents can be life-changing events, and the aftermath of an accident can leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If you’ve been injured in an accident in Colorado, understanding the state’s laws and statute of limitations can be crucial to protecting your right to compensation. Learn more about the key details in filing a claim and what to keep in mind as you recover from a car accident.
Colorado Accident Laws
Laws in Colorado were created to ensure victims can seek justice while also protecting drivers from endless legal claims. Colorado operates under modified comparative negligence. This basically means that multiple parties can be found at fault for an accident and that if you’re found over 49% responsible, you are not eligible to receive any compensation for an accident.
At the same time, even if you are only found partially at fault and are awarded compensation, your overall claim amount will be reduced based on how much negligence the judge deems you displayed. For example, if you are found 25% at fault for a claim that is awarded $100,000, you will only receive $75,000 after accounting for comparative negligence.
Colorado law also requires all drivers to maintain auto insurance coverage, including liability insurance that helps cover damages to other drivers in the event of an accident. This mandatory coverage ensures victims have a way to recover some of their costs, regardless of whether they are at fault.
While these laws are designed to ensure fairness, they can also make recovering compensation more complex. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, liability insurance may not fully cover damages, and you may be offered a lower settlement than what you deserve.
Because of this, it is critical to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands Colorado laws and can help you navigate the legal landscape. They can gather evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Colorado
Understanding a state’s statute of limitations is one of the most important aspects of pursuing a car accident claim. The statute of limitations is the time frame in which you must file a lawsuit or make a legal claim after an accident occurs.
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is 3 years from the date of the accident. This gives victims three years to file a lawsuit if they want to seek compensation for injuries, damages, or other losses related to the accident.
After the statute of limitations has passed, you may lose the right to pursue compensation in court so it’s important to consult with an attorney and act quickly to better your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
While 3 years is the general rule, some exceptions may affect the statute of limitations for a case. These include:
- Accidents where the injured party involves a minor.
- Accidents involving government vehicles or agencies.
- Accidents that lead to a wrongful death.
Depending on the specific circumstances of an accident, the statute of limitations may be longer or even shorter than three years. It’s important to discuss these details with a lawyer so you know exactly what time limit you’re working with.
Statute of Limitations by State
The statute of limitations can vary from state to state. At DM Injury Law, we have licensed and experienced lawyers who can handle your case in a handful of states. Learn more about the statutes of limitation in each of the states we practice in:
Trust DM Injury Law for Car Accident Injuries in Colorado
The team at DM Injury Law understands how overwhelming the aftermath of a car accident can be. Whether you’re dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, or financial strain, our team is here to support you throughout the entire legal process.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Colorado, don’t wait until it’s too late to take action. Reach out to the attorneys at DM Injury Law today for a free consultation. We are committed protecting your rights and will fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve.