Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lakewood

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Lakewood Police Department is 303-980-7300.

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

  The Lakewood Police Department encourages citizens to request a copy of their car accident report at https://buycrash.lexisnexisrisk.com/ui/home. Report requests take 3–7 business days to process. Lakewood Police Records is also only accessible by appointment. 

• How often are fatal car accidents in Lakewood?

  Of the 50 fatal car accidents in Jefferson County in 2021, 18 were in Lakewood. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, Jefferson County is tied with Arapahoe County for the third-highest number of traffic fatalities in the metro, just behind Adams and Denver counties. In fact, Colorado has seen a 50% increase in car accident fatalities over the past decade, with almost 700 deaths recorded in 2021.

• Where do most Lakewood car accidents occur?

  In data gathered over two decades, it was found that common sites of car accidents in Lakewood include Sr-121 Wadsworth Blvd, W Colfax Ave, Sr-391 Kipling St, W Alameda Ave, and W Jewell Ave. Most of these car accidents occurred between June and August, with nighttime accidents more common than ones in the daytime.

• What are the common causes of Lakewood car accidents?

  According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, one of the most common causes of car accidents in Lakewood is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Another common cause is distracted driving. It has been recorded that one-third of all fatal car accidents in Colorado in recent years were the result of impaired driving. Speeding has also been found to play a role in 36% of Colorado’s fatal car accidents.

• Who can Lakewood car accident victims hold accountable for their losses?

  As per Colorado’s fault standard, car accident victims in Lakewood are entitled to compensation from the at-fault drivers’ insurers. In fact, every licensed driver in the state is required to maintain an auto insurance policy with liability coverage. This policy must cover bodily injuries for at least $25,000, accidents for at least $50,000, and damage to property for at least $15,000. 

• How long do car accident victims in Lakewood have to pursue legal action?

  In accordance with Colorado’s statute of limitations, car accident victims in Lakewood must file their claims within three years from the date of their accident. However, it is prudent to consult a Lakewood car accident lawyer as soon as possible, as settlements typically take three to six months. Going to trial for a Lakewood car accident claim may take longer than a year.

• 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.