Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lafayette

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Lafayette Police Department is 303-441-4444.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your accident report through the Police Records Division. The first ten pages of the report cost $7.00, and each page thereafter costs $.25. There is also an additional $5.00 cost for certified copies. You can also use the CrashDocs website to access your report. Input your report or reference number, the last name of the involved party, and the date of the accident.

• On which Lafayette roads do car accidents usually occur?

  Most fatal crashes recorded in Lafayette from 2015 to 2019 occurred along U.S. Route 287. Serious accidents also happen at intersections like Highway 287 and Baseline Road, as well as 95th Avenue and Baseline. In 2019, a serious car collision resulting in two fatalities occurred on W. Baseline Road. Wherever you are in Lafayette, always remain vigilant on the road.

• How much time do you have to file for a car accident claim in Lafayette?

  According to the Colorado Revised Statute 18-30-101(1), you have three years to file a lawsuit for injuries sustained in a car accident in Lafayette. However, it is best to file a claim as soon as possible to gather evidence and witnesses' information. For injuries that did not manifest or were not discovered immediately, the deadline for filing a claim may be extended to three years after the discovery. You may be required to supply evidence proving that you were unaware of the injuries.

• Who can you sue for your injuries when you get into an accident while riding the RTD in Lafayette?

  The bus operator, the bus manufacturer, the government agency, or another motorist who caused the accident could all be held liable for injuries obtained while riding the RTD in Lafayette. Since RTD is a governmental entity, a special claims procedure must be followed. A claimant must notify RTD of the claim within 182 days of the accident. Elderly passengers and people with disabilities injured due to poor driver assistance may also seek compensation.

• What is the maximum amount you can recover when you become a victim of a car accident in Lafayette?

  The amount you can recover when you become a victim of a car accident in Lafayette is determined by several factors, including the costs incurred for current and future medical treatment, your lost income, the value of the damaged property, and the severity of your injuries. Colorado has implemented limits on the amount you can recover for non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and loss of consortium. The current limit is $613,760 for incidents occurring on or after January 1, 2020.

• Do you have to file a lawsuit as a car accident victim in Lafayette?

  Not necessarily. Your decision to file a lawsuit is based on the facts of your case. If you and the opposing party responsible for the accident that resulted in your injuries cannot agree on the amount of compensation you seek, you or your lawyers may have to go to trial. However, if all the parties involved have reached an amicable arrangement, there may be no necessity to use the civil court system.

• 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.