Best Car Accident Lawyers in Longmont

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Longmont Police Department is (303) 651-8555.

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

  Copies of police reports for car accidents in Longmont can be obtained in person or by mail from the Records Unit of the Longmont Department of Public Safety, located at 225 Kimbark Street.

• Can Longmont car accident victims still file a claim after their insurance companies have already paid?

  No, because accepting a car accident settlement in Longmont typically waives the victim's right to sue. Once an agreement has been signed with an insurance company, it is usually difficult for the injured victim to recover additional compensation. This is true even if they have discovered that their injuries were more severe than they initially thought.

• Can car accident victims in Longmont file a claim with their own insurance companies?

  Yes, people injured in car accidents in Longmont can use their health insurance to cover their accident-related medical treatment. Insurance companies in Colorado provide drivers with medical payment coverage, which covers up to $5,000 of medical expenses following an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Many people choose to file a claim with their own insurer because it is often the easiest way.

• Can individuals partially at fault for a car accident in Longmont receive compensation?

  Yes, because being partly at fault for a car accident in Longmont does not automatically bar a plaintiff from getting compensation for injuries or the death of a loved one. In addition, Colorado follows a comparative negligence system, where the victim’s fault is measured against the fault of the person responsible for their injuries.

• How frequent are fatal automobile accidents in Longmont?

  According to a Colorado Department of Transportation report, there were 639 fatal crashes in the state in 2021, while 306 deadly crashes were recorded in 2022. The causes of these accidents include drunk driving, speeding, and running red lights. Some of these incidents occurred in Longmont.

• What is the statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Longmont?

  According to Colorado Revised Statutes Section 13-80-101, Longmont residents hurt in car accidents have three years from the time of the collision to file a claim for injuries. The aggrieved parties lose their entitlement to compensation if the statute of limitations expires before they make a claim. Exceptions to the three-year timeframe include injuries involving minors and when the injured person had no knowledge of the injury before the deadline.

• 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.