No matter the state, you can never be 100% sure about on-road safety. Serious car accidents, crashes, rear-enders, and collisions are reported in Colorado every month. If you ever have the misfortune of getting injured in a car accident, you must know your rights, the state laws, and important facts. It is also wise to look for a car accident lawyer near me, to get advice on your circumstances. Below are some important things worth knowing.
Limited time to take action
Like other states, there is a statute of limitations in Colorado too. You have three years, to file a personal injury lawsuit, or sue for property damage. Counting from date of accident. If the accident resulted in someone’s death, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed within two years. The count starts from the date of death, not the date of accident. Also, the statute of limitations doesn’t apply to insurance claims. You are required to inform your own insurer and at-fault party’s insurance company within a reasonable time.
The modified comparative negligence rule
Colorado is a modified comparative negligence state. If you had a share in fault, you may still have the scope to file an injury lawsuit against the other driver at fault. However, your share of fault should not be 50% or more, and more importantly, your settlement will be reduced by your fault in percentage. In the real world, insurance companies often use this to pin the blame on the other party, so you need to bolster your case with evidence.
Reporting the accident
All car accidents in Colorado must be reported. This is an absolute must, no matter who was at fault. If the accident resulted in someone’s death, caused injury, and/or involved vehicle damage, you must report the same to the nearest sheriff’s office, or local police.
Do you need to hire a car accident lawyer?
Hiring a car accident lawyer is important, not merely to protect your rights, but also to get a fair and justified compensation. Keep in mind that insurance companies make money from premiums, and they will do anything to pay less to car accident victims. An attorney can help in evaluating your circumstances, and they will investigate the case to gather evidence. As needed, the attorney may even go to trial.
Don’t delay in calling a car accident lawyer after the incident. You can check websites like Avvo to find details.
