Best Car Accident Lawyers in Fort Collins, CO

FAQs

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

  Call 970-221-6540 to reach the Fort Collins Police Department for non-emergency concerns.

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

  The official website of the City of Fort Collins has an online system where you can conveniently request a copy of your motor vehicle accident report and other official records. You may submit a records request at https://www.fcgov.com/police/records-release.

• How does Colorado’s at-fault law apply if you are a victim of a car accident in Fort Collins?

  As Colorado is an at-fault state, the insurance company of the driver responsible for the accident will pay for the damages of both parties. Therefore, the at-fault driver has to be determined first before any type of settlement can be issued.

• What happens if you are partially at fault for a car accident in Fort Collins?

  Colorado state law uses comparative negligence law, or 50% modified comparative negligence, to be specific. This means that if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for a car accident, you no longer have the right to receive compensation for damages. If your fault is less than 50%, you can recover against any party who was found to be more at fault than you were; however, your financial recovery will be reduced proportionally to your share of liability.

• Are there caps placed on compensatory damages for car accidents in Fort Collins?

  Colorado does not place a limit on economic damages, which can refer to medical costs and lost wages. There are also no caps in cases that involve permanent physical impairment. But for non-economic damages there is an existing cap of $250,000. This amount can be raised to up to $500,000 if clear and convincing evidence exists to warrant an increase.

• How are pain and suffering calculated for a car accident claim in Fort Collins?

  Typically, the lawyer for the plaintiff will multiply the medical expenses incurred by the client by two to five, depending on the severity of the injury. However, if the plaintiff did not sustain any serious or permanent injuries, the most they can claim in non-economic damages, or pain and suffering, is $250,000, plus inflation.

• How soon after a car accident in Fort Collins can you file a legal claim or lawsuit?

  According to Colorado Revised Statute 13-80-101(1), you have three years from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit. However, if your case is against a government agency, the time frame may be much shorter than three years. Failure to file a lawsuit before the deadline means you lose your right to receive compensation for damages, and the courts will most likely automatically deny your claim.

• 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.