Best Car Accident Lawyers in Castle Rock

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number for the Castle Rock Police Department is 303-663-6100.

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

  By submitting a Records Request Form, you can receive Police Reports (commonly known as criminal justice records) and Traffic Crash Reports. Forms must be signed to be processed. You need to include a copy of your government-issued ID when completing a form. Forms can be sent to 303-663-6105 or emailed to the Records Unit. In addition, forms can be filled out in person at the Castle Rock Police Department. Processing time is three business days.

• What is the statute of limitations for a car accident in Castle Rock?

  Colorado Revised Statute 13-80-101(1) requires Castle Rock claims to be filed within three years of the accident. You must file a claim before the three-year mark to avoid losing your right to sue and receive compensation for your injuries and damages. If the accident happened when the victim was a minor, Colorado law starts the statute of limitations on the victim's 18th birthday.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Castle Rock?

  Castle Rock's recent bi-annual crash report lists the following most prevalent accident locations: CO-86 & Allen Way (Founders Pkwy), CO-86 & Front St, US-85 & N Castleton Dr (Meadows Pkwy), US-85, Fifth St @ Perry St N, Perry St S @ Plum Creek Pkwy, Wilcox St N @ Wolfensberger Rd., and Black Pine Dr/Copper Cloud Dr @ Founders Pkwy.

• What are the most prevalent types of accidents in Castle Rock?

  According to the bi-annual crash report for Castle Rock, broadside collisions are the most frequent kind of car accident. These incidents frequently involve a driver on a side street who underestimated the available traffic opening and was hit by a vehicle on the major thoroughfare. To solve this, the town staff tries to implement looking at sight lines, intersection control, restriping with long-lasting markers, and changes to the signal system.

• What if you are partially to blame for your injuries in a Castle Rock car accident?

  Colorado implements modified comparative negligence. In a car accident in Castle Rock, the jury evaluates each party's percentage of fault, then adjusts the monetary damage judgment. The plaintiff cannot receive damages under modified comparative negligence if they are 50% or more culpable for their injury. If the plaintiff is at least 49 percent at fault, the defendant may still be required to pay damages; however, the amount awarded will be decreased by the same percentage as the plaintiff's degree of guilt.

• How is responsibility determined in a medical emergency car accident in Castle Rock?

  To prove negligence on the part of the medically impaired driver, the other driver would need to present evidence that a pre-existing medical condition contributed to or caused the collision in Castle Rock. In addition, the other driver must prove that the defendant was aware of the health issue and failed to take the necessary precautions. Often, this requires a thorough review of the defendant's medical history, determination of the severity of the disease, and discovery of the type of medical advice the defendant has received regarding driving restrictions.

• 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.