Grand Junction Car Accident Lawyer

How To Determine Fault in a Car Accident Case in Colorado

Determining fault is crucial in a car accident claim in Colorado. You need to show that the other driver acted negligently, causing the accident that resulted in your damages. 

To do this, you need solid evidence, including:

• Photos and videos of the accident scene and your injuries.
• Witness statements.
• The official police report.
• Evidence showing any violation of traffic laws.

When you work with our Grand Junction car accident lawyers, we will guide you on the evidence to gather to build a strong case. We will also work with other professionals, such as an accident reconstructionist, to gather more details about the crash.

A few tips to help when gathering evidence and documenting a car accident include:

• Prioritize safety by moving your car to a safe location, if possible.
• Take photos and videos from different angles and have both wide and close-up shots.
• Document the damage to your vehicle and other personal items.
• Request witnesses to provide their contact information and use your phone to record brief statements.
• Write detailed notes on the scene, including the date, time, location, weather, and road conditions, among other important details.

Immediate Steps To Take After a Car Accident in Colorado

Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) 42-4-1602 requires a driver involved in a car accident that results in injury or death of any person, or any property damage, to report it. Thus, if an accident meets this requirement, call 911 immediately, so the police can respond to the scene.

If the police are unable to come to the scene, or you didn’t call them because the crash did not meet the requirements for reporting, you may file a crash report online. Or you can leave the scene to report it to the nearest law enforcement office. 

Another thing to do is gather evidence. Take photos and videos of the accident scene before things change. Document the position of the vehicles, the surrounding area, property damage, and your injuries.

Furthermore, you are required to exchange information with the other driver. This includes name, contact information, driver’s license number, vehicle details (make, model, year, color, and license plate number), and insurance information (company name and policy number).

You should not apologize or admit fault when interacting with the other driver. After obtaining the necessary details, return to your car and calmly wait for the police and medical response.

Common Injuries From Car Accidents and How They Affect Claims

The common injuries reported after car accidents are:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Soft tissue damage
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Internal injuries

The severity of an injury affects a claim. If you sustain a serious injury like internal bleeding, you should seek higher compensation. Our Grand Junction car accident law firm​ helps injured victims get more information about their injuries to determine the appropriate claim value.

It’s also critical to seek immediate medical attention after a car accident, even if you don’t have visible injuries. Some injuries are not always immediately apparent. Additionally, adrenaline rush can mask pain and other symptoms that can help you to tell that you are injured. A doctor examining you ensures you receive early treatment, preventing conditions from worsening.

How Our Grand Junction Car Accident Lawyers Help With Insurance and Compensation

When you work with our car accident lawyers, we will get in-depth information about the accident and your injuries. This helps us present a compelling case to the at-fault party’s insurance company. We will negotiate with the insurer on your behalf, fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Additionally, we will handle all communication, allowing you to focus on recovery. We will also ensure you stay informed throughout the claim process. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we can take your case to trial.  

Essentially, we will consider all legal options to get you the compensation that fully covers all your losses. 

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Colorado

Typically, accident victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a car accident claim. Therefore, you need to make informed decisions quickly.

What To Expect When Filing a Personal Injury Case With Bachus & Schanker

When you file your case with our Grand Junction office, you can expect a thorough investigation. We are skilled in getting enough information about an incident using our resources and by working with other professionals. Thus, we will evaluate your case, help you establish fault, and explain your options.

We will also help you with evidence gathering and preservation, as it’s essential to have a strong case when filing a personal injury claim. Moreover, you can expect to be adequately informed about your case. We communicate effectively with clients to stay on the same page. 

Our attorneys will also send a demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurance company and handle negotiations. If the insurer refuses to compensate you fairly, we can file a lawsuit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims in Grand Junction

How Long After a Car Accident Can You Make a Claim?

You have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. After this period, you may not be eligible to seek compensation.

Is Colorado a No-Fault State for Auto Accidents?

No. The at-fault driver is responsible for paying for the damages.

What Is the Minimum Settlement for a Car Accident?

Each case is different. The specific damages incurred determine the appropriate value to seek.

How Much Compensation Do You Get From a Car Accident?

This will depend on several factors, including the severity of the injuries, percentage of fault, and available insurance coverage.

Will Your Insurance Go Up If You’re Not at Fault in Colorado?

No, Colorado law prohibits this. However, if you were partially at fault for the crash or received a traffic citation for the accident, your insurance premium may be increased.

How Much Damage Is It To Total a Car in Colorado?

If the cost of repairing a vehicle is equal to (100%) or more than the actual cash value (ACV), the car is considered totaled.

Why Choose Bachus & Schanker for Your Grand Junction Car Accident Case?

Bachus & Schanker has a team of experienced personal injury lawyers committed to helping injured victims protect their rights. Our law firm offers each case a personalized approach, helping clients receive what they deserve.

Additionally, there are no fees unless we win. Contact us for a free consultation to understand your options if you were injured in a car accident.

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