Best Car Accident Lawyers in Boulder

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Boulder, Colorado?

  303-441-3333 is the non-emergency line of the Boulder Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Boulder, Colorado?

  You can get a copy of your car accident report in person at the Boulder Police Department, located at 1805 33rd Street, Boulder, CO 80301. The Records Department is open on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. You can also acquire a copy of your Boulder Police report for your accident from the City of Boulder's website. In addition, the City of Boulder allows requests for accident reports to be completed by mail.

• Why do you need a Boulder car accident lawyer?

  It is beneficial for you to find a car accident attorney in Boulder who can represent your case to help you with the following:

  • ascertain who was at fault;
  • collect relevant evidence that supports your accident claims;
  • file lawsuits against negligent parties;
  • bargain with insurance companies; and
  • appear in court on your behalf to defend your rights.

• Which are the most frequent causes of Boulder car accidents?

  The most typical causes of car accidents in Boulder are drivers' negligent behaviors, such as passing on the right, tailgating, excessive speeding, and distracted driving. Car accidents also occur when drivers fail to check the rearview mirror before backing up or changing lanes, as well as when they drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In addition, faulty and defective vehicle parts, poor roadway conditions, and bad weather are cited as causes of car accidents in Boulder.

• How do you establish liability in a car accident in Boulder?

  To establish liability in a car accident in Boulder, you need to collect enough evidence that proves the following elements:

  • The driver owed it to you to drive defensively and in accordance with Colorado traffic regulations.
  • The motorist violated their duty of care by acting or refraining from acting negligently.
  • The duty violation directly caused your accident and injuries.
  • As a result of the accident, you sustained losses that you can mention in your complaint.

• What are the most common locations for car accidents in Boulder?

  According to the Safe Streets Boulder Report, four intersections experienced more than 100 collisions within a three-year period:

  • Foothills Parkway and Arapahoe Avenue
  • 28th Street and Arapahoe Avenue
  • 30th Street and Arapahoe Avenue
  • Broadway and Baseline Road

  Boulder car accidents also occur on Colorado Avenue, Canyon Boulevard, and Edgewood Drive.

• How long do you have to file a car accident claim in Boulder?

  You have three years, under state law, to initiate a lawsuit for injuries you suffered in a car accident in Boulder. Usually, the clock begins to run down on the day of the car accident. The courts will often automatically reject your claim after this point. While there are some situations where you may postpone filing, you must start the process before the three-year threshold to receive the money you need and deserve for your injuries.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.