Find The Best Car Accident Lawyer in Colorado (October 2024)

How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost in Colorado?

Most Denver auto accident attorneys work on a "contingency" fee basis, meaning they take a percentage of any money they recover for you rather than charging an hourly rate. There’s typically no upfront cost. Additionally, they can often pause medical bill collections while your case is ongoing, easing your financial stress.

This arrangement makes legal services accessible to everyone, regardless of finances. Since the attorney’s payment depends on winning your case, they are particularly motivated to secure a favorable outcome.

Review an attorney's proposed fee agreement carefully and thoroughly before you sign it. One specific question to ask is who will cover case-related costs, like filing fees, expert witness payments and court costs, as these can add up. Most lawyers will absorb these charges if they cannot recover compensation on your behalf, but others will hold you responsible for paying regardless.

How to Hire a Colorado Car Accident Attorney

The best lawyer is one who feels like the right fit for you and your unique situation. Friends, family and coworkers might have personal recommendations, or you may need to start your search online. Resources like the Colorado Bar Association can provide invaluable guidance. Look for attorneys who specialize in car accidents.

• Research. Attorney websites often have client testimonials and examples of previous verdicts and settlements. You should also check whether an attorney is licensed in good standing to practice and review any past disciplinary action.
• Relevant experience. If you've been injured in a car accident, you need an attorney with experience pursuing similar cases. A Colorado car accident law firm that knows the local courts, insurance companies and accident hotspots will give you a significant advantage as you pursue your case.
• Resources. For some claims, you want the personalized attention and dedication that a solo practitioner or small firm can offer. You may need a more prominent firm with specialized experience and resources for more complex or high-value claims, like massive truck accidents.

Your attorney should understand Colorado's laws and court systems and prioritize your recovery and well-being. The best attorneys can help you get your life back on track after an accident, providing you with an array of resources to further your recovery. Finally, follow your instincts because choosing an attorney is as much about finding someone you trust and feel comfortable working with.

Average Car Accident Settlement in Colorado

Car accident settlements vary widely, as each case has strengths and weaknesses. Factors like the severity of injuries, property damage and who’s at fault all impact the value of a claim. Other considerations can include the difficulty of taking the case to trial, the credibility of witnesses and the long-term impact of your injuries. amount. Since many settlements are confidential, it’s impossible to say what the "average" value of a Colorado car accident settlement is.

That’s where an experienced Denver auto accident attorney can really help. With their knowledge from handling many cases, they can give you a realistic idea of what your case might be worth and guide you through settlement negotiations or litigation with confidence.

Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Colorado

Most car accident cases settle before going to trial (many without even filing a lawsuit). Colorado is an at-fault state for auto insurance claims. Individuals who are injured in a car accident must file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company. The at-fault driver's insurance should pay for any damages if they can prove their claim.

Unfortunately, it's often not that easy to get an insurer to pay you fair compensation for the damages their insured caused. You may need to file a lawsuit to recover what you deserve. Cases that frequently lead to lawsuits can involve:

• Contested liability. If the parties cannot agree on who was at fault for the accident, it may be necessary to ask a judge or jury to determine liability. This is especially true if multiple parties are involved or if the accident caused significant injuries or damage.
• Lowball settlement offers. Insurance companies want to minimize the amount they pay to settle claims. Filing a lawsuit can be one tactic in negotiating a settlement that fairly compensates you for your injuries and losses.
• Commercial drivers. If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the accident, you might also need to sue their employer.
• Third-party liability. In some cases, a vehicle defect or faulty equipment causes an accident, giving you grounds for a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer.

A lawyer can help you negotiate a higher settlement that compensates you for the full scope of your damages. Experienced car accident attorneys understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts and know how to counter them with persuasive evidence and arguments that demonstrate the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.

How Does a Car Accident Lawsuit Work in Colorado?

If someone else is legally responsible for a car accident that causes you to suffer damages, you can file a lawsuit against them in Colorado civil court. You can recover two types of compensation. "Economic" damages compensate you for financial losses, like medical bills, vehicle damage and lost wages. "Non-economic" damages compensate you for the value of intangible losses like pain and suffering or emotional trauma.

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years. If you don't file a lawsuit within two years after your injury, you lose your right to seek compensation. Other types of car accident lawsuits, such as product liability or premises liability claims, have different time limits. In some cases, the nature of your case can shorten or extend the time you have to file suit. It's best to consult with an attorney immediately after an accident to protect your rights.

Types of Car Accident Cases in Colorado

Colorado's steep, narrow mountain passes and congested urban areas lead to a wide range of traffic accidents. Common car accident cases include:

• Rideshare accidents. Denver, Boulder and many other Colorado cities offer numerous rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. If you're involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle, it can be challenging to recover compensation. Rideshare companies require their drivers to carry individual liability insurance policies, but you may be able to pursue a claim with them directly. A rideshare accident lawyer can help you sort out the responsible parties and hold them accountable.
• Truck accidents. Commercial trucks can cause catastrophic accidents. The Mousetrap interchange, where interstate vehicle traffic on I-70 intersects with crosstown congestion on I-25, has caused many historic pileups. In blizzards, high winds and icy conditions, truck accidents on Monument Hill are common. Pursuing a lawsuit can be complicated, so you need an experienced truck accident attorney on your side.
• Driving under the influence. While recreational cannabis is legal in Colorado, it's still against the law to drive while impaired by alcohol, cannabis or other drugs cause many accidents. Driving under the influence (DUI) is illegal, but the criminal justice system doesn't compensate an impaired driver's victims for their injuries. An attorney can help you pursue compensation from a drunk or high driver after an accident.
• Shuttles and limousine services. Taking a shuttle bus or private "limousine" service is a great way to avoid driving in metro Denver, to DIA (Denver International Airport) and to the ski resorts. Whether you're involved in an accident with a shuttle bus as a passenger or driver, these claims can be complex and time-consuming to pursue.

If you've been in any type of vehicle accident in Colorado, contact a car accident attorney. They will help you understand your options and pursue a claim for your damages.