Colorado Car Accident Lawyer
Every day on Colorado’s roads and highways, car accidents cause devastating injuries that change lives in an instant. Whether you’re commuting through Denver, navigating mountain passes near Steamboat Springs, or traveling along I-25, the aftermath of a car accident can leave you facing mounting medical bills, lost income, and an uncertain future. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you deserve experienced legal representation that will fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
At Eddington Law, our Colorado car accident attorneys have been serving injured families across the state for more than 35 years. We understand the unique challenges Colorado drivers face—from hazardous winter conditions to distracted drivers and aggressive motorists. Our team is dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring that you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.
We know this is one of the most difficult times in your life, and dealing with insurance companies only adds to the stress. That’s why we handle every aspect of your claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery and your family. Our consultations are always free, and we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Why Choose Eddington Law for Your Colorado Car Accident Case?
When you’re facing the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of a car accident, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s what sets Eddington Law apart:
Over 35 Years of Colorado Experience: Since 1984, we have been fighting for injured Colorado families. Our deep understanding of state laws, local courts, and insurance company tactics gives our clients a significant advantage.
Proven Track Record: We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients through settlements and trial verdicts. Our results speak for themselves, and we’re proud of the justice we’ve achieved for Colorado families.
Personalized Attention: You’re not just a case number to us. When you work with Eddington Law, you’ll work directly with experienced attorneys who genuinely care about your recovery and your family’s well-being. We take the time to understand your unique situation and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.
No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis, covering all case expenses upfront. You don’t pay attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you. This means everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Aggressive Advocacy: Insurance companies know that we’re not afraid to take cases to trial when necessary. Our reputation as fierce advocates often leads to better settlement offers because insurers know we mean business.
Statewide Representation: With offices in Denver and Steamboat Springs, we serve clients throughout Colorado—from the Front Range to the Western Slope and everywhere in between.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Colorado
Understanding what causes car accidents can help establish liability in your case. In Colorado, some of the most common causes of car accidents include:
Distracted Driving
Texting, phone calls, eating, adjusting the radio, or any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road can result in devastating accidents. Colorado law prohibits texting while driving, but violations remain common.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and road rage contribute to thousands of accidents each year on Colorado roads.
Impaired Driving
Despite strict DUI laws, drunk and drugged driving continue to cause serious accidents in Colorado. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, poor judgment, and diminished motor skills.
Hazardous Weather Conditions
Colorado’s diverse climate presents unique challenges. Winter snow and ice, summer thunderstorms, and sudden weather changes in mountain areas can create dangerous driving conditions. When drivers fail to adjust their driving for weather conditions, accidents often result.
Failure to Yield Right of Way
Many intersection accidents occur when drivers fail to yield at stop signs, traffic signals, or when merging onto highways. These violations often result in serious T-bone and head-on collisions.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Traffic signal and stop sign violations are particularly dangerous, often causing high-speed collisions at intersections with devastating consequences.
Drowsy Driving
Fatigued drivers have impaired reaction times similar to intoxicated drivers. Long-haul truckers and drivers on Colorado’s lengthy rural highways are particularly at risk.
Inexperienced Drivers
Teen drivers and those new to Colorado’s mountain driving conditions may lack the skills needed to handle challenging road situations safely.
Vehicle Defects and Poor Maintenance
Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues can cause accidents when vehicles aren’t properly maintained or when defective parts are used.
Types of Car Accidents We Handle in Colorado
Eddington Law has extensive experience handling all types of car accident cases throughout Colorado, including:
- Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by following too closely or distracted driving.
- Head-On Collisions: Among the most serious accidents, frequently resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
- T-Bone/Side-Impact Crashes: Common at intersections and particularly dangerous due to limited side protection.
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Complex cases involving multiple parties and insurance companies.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents: May involve road defects, vehicle malfunctions, or dangerous conditions.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: We help victims pursue compensation even when the at-fault driver flees the scene.
- Rollover Accidents: Often involve SUVs and vehicles with high centers of gravity.
- Highway and Interstate Accidents: High-speed collisions on I-25, I-70, and other major Colorado roadways.
- Parking Lot Accidents: Including pedestrian injuries and low-speed collisions.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims: When the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance coverage.
No matter what type of car accident you’ve experienced, our Colorado attorneys have the knowledge and resources to build a strong case on your behalf.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Colorado Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering trauma. Some of the most common injuries our clients suffer include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Concussions and more severe brain trauma that can have lasting cognitive and physical effects.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
- Neck and Back Injuries: Including whiplash, herniated discs, and chronic pain conditions.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, and facial bones.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to organs, internal bleeding, and abdominal trauma.
- Lacerations and Scarring: Deep cuts requiring stitches or causing permanent disfigurement.
- Burn Injuries: From vehicle fires or chemical exposure.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments or tendons.
- Psychological Trauma: PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health impacts.
If you’ve suffered any injury in a car accident, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention—both for your health and to document your injuries for your legal claim. Our attorneys work with medical experts to fully understand the extent of your injuries and their long-term impact on your life.
Compensation Available in Colorado Car Accident Cases
When you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, Colorado law allows you to seek compensation for the full range of losses you’ve experienced. The damages you may be entitled to recover include:
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses: All costs related to your treatment, including:
- Emergency room visits and ambulance transportation
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Doctor appointments and specialist consultations
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medications and medical equipment
- Future medical care needs
- Home modifications for disabilities
Lost Wages and Income: Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries, including:
- Past lost wages and salary
- Future lost earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job
- Lost benefits and employment opportunities
- Reduced earning potential due to permanent disabilities
Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your vehicle and personal property, including:
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Rental car expenses during repairs
- Personal items damaged in the crash
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, discomfort, and emotional distress caused by your injuries
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When injuries prevent you from participating in activities and hobbies you previously enjoyed
Loss of Consortium: Compensation for family members when injuries affect your relationship and ability to provide companionship and support
Emotional Distress: Mental anguish, anxiety, depression, and PTSD resulting from the accident
Disfigurement and Scarring: Permanent physical changes that affect your appearance and self-esteem
Wrongful Death Damages
If you lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, you may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for:
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of financial support and income
- Loss of guidance, companionship, and emotional support
- Pain and suffering experienced by your loved one before their death
The total value of your case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, the clarity of liability, and the insurance coverage available. Our experienced Colorado car accident attorneys will thoroughly evaluate your case to pursue maximum compensation.
Understanding Colorado's Car Accident Laws
Colorado has specific laws that affect car accident claims. Understanding these laws is crucial to protecting your rights and maximizing your compensation.
Colorado’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Colorado follows a “modified comparative negligence” system. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident—as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 25% at fault, you would receive $75,000. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto accident victims to reduce their payout. Our attorneys know how to counter these tactics and protect your right to fair compensation.
Colorado’s Statute of Limitations
In Colorado, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you’re filing a claim against a government entity (such as a city or county), the deadline may be much shorter—sometimes as little as 180 days to file a notice of claim.
While three years may seem like plenty of time, it’s crucial to act quickly. Evidence can be lost, witnesses’ memories fade, and delays can weaken your case. Additionally, starting the claims process early often leads to faster settlements, getting you the compensation you need when you need it most.
Colorado’s Mandatory Insurance Requirements
Colorado law requires all drivers to carry minimum auto insurance coverage:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $15,000 property damage liability per accident
Unfortunately, these minimum coverage amounts are often insufficient to fully compensate accident victims with serious injuries. That’s why we strongly recommend that Colorado drivers carry additional coverage, including:
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM)
- Medical payments coverage (MedPay)
- Collision coverage
If you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your own UM/UIM coverage can provide crucial protection.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Colorado
The actions you take immediately after a car accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the top priority. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s wise to see a doctor soon after the accident—some injuries have delayed symptoms.
2. Call the Police
Contact law enforcement to report the accident and request an official accident report. This report can be valuable evidence in your claim.
3. Document the Scene
If you’re able, gather evidence by:
- Taking photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and the overall scene
- Getting contact information from witnesses
- Recording the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number
- Noting weather conditions, time of day, and any relevant factors
4. Do Not Admit Fault
Avoid making statements about fault or apologizing, as these can be used against you later. Provide only basic facts to police and the other driver.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company, but be cautious about giving recorded statements before speaking with an attorney.
6. Avoid Speaking to the Other Driver’s Insurance
The other driver’s insurance company is not on your side. They may try to get you to accept blame or offer a quick, lowball settlement. Politely decline to give statements and refer them to your attorney.
7. Keep Records
Save all documentation related to the accident, including:
- Medical bills and records
- Repair estimates and receipts
- Pay stubs showing lost wages
- Photos of your injuries as they heal
- A journal documenting your pain, limitations, and recovery process
8. Contact a Colorado Car Accident Attorney
The sooner you contact an experienced car accident lawyer, the better. We can preserve evidence, interview witnesses while their memories are fresh, and begin building a strong case on your behalf.
How Insurance Companies Handle Colorado Car Accident Claims
It’s important to understand that insurance companies are businesses focused on their bottom line. Despite their friendly advertising, they often employ tactics designed to minimize payouts to accident victims:
Quick, Lowball Settlements: Insurers may offer a fast settlement before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and losses. Once you accept, you cannot pursue additional compensation.
Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may ask for recorded statements and use your words against you to dispute your claim or minimize your injuries.
Surveillance: In some cases, insurance companies may surveil claimants to look for evidence that contradicts claimed injuries.
Blame Shifting: Adjusters often try to place partial or full blame on the victim to reduce or deny the claim.
Delaying Tactics: Some insurers intentionally drag out claims, hoping victims will become desperate and accept inadequate settlements.
Disputing Medical Treatment: Insurance companies may claim your treatment was unnecessary or unrelated to the accident.
This is why having an experienced Colorado car accident attorney on your side is so important. We know how insurance companies operate, and we won’t let them take advantage of you. Our attorneys handle all communications with insurers, negotiate from a position of strength, and aren’t afraid to take cases to trial when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Car Accident Claims
What if an uninsured driver hit me?
Though Colorado law requires all motorists to carry insurance, many drivers violate this law. If you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This protection can be invaluable in hit-and-run accidents when the at-fault driver cannot be located.
How much will a lawyer cost?
Eddington Law’s Colorado car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. We cover all costs of investigating and building your case upfront and only collect a percentage of your final settlement or verdict as payment. In the unlikely event we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Colorado’s statute of limitations for car accident personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. However, waiting too long can jeopardize your case as evidence deteriorates and witnesses become harder to locate. It’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
What if I was partially at fault for my accident?
Colorado uses a modified comparative negligence system, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault—as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, you’d receive $80,000.
Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?
Insurance companies want to settle quickly and for as little as possible. Any settlement offer can be tempting when you’re facing medical bills and lost income, but early offers rarely reflect the true value of your claim. We strongly encourage you to review any offer with our Colorado car accident team before accepting. In most cases, we can help you recover significantly more than the initial insurance offer.
What if the accident happened on a Colorado highway or mountain pass?
Highway and mountain pass accidents can be more complex, potentially involving factors like road maintenance issues, weather conditions, or commercial vehicles. Our attorneys have extensive experience with these cases and know how to investigate all potential sources of liability and compensation.
How long will my case take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate fairly. Some cases settle within months, while others—particularly those involving serious injuries or disputed liability—may take longer. We work efficiently to resolve your case as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive full and fair compensation.
Why Act Now: The Importance of Timely Legal Action
While you have three years under Colorado law to file a car accident lawsuit, waiting can significantly harm your case. Here’s why you should contact an attorney immediately:
Evidence Preservation: Physical evidence from the accident scene can disappear quickly. Skid marks fade, debris gets cleared, and security footage may be erased. The sooner we can investigate, the stronger your case will be.
Witness Memory: Eyewitness testimony becomes less reliable as time passes. By acting quickly, we can interview witnesses while the accident is fresh in their minds.
Medical Documentation: Seeking prompt medical treatment creates a clear link between the accident and your injuries. Delays in treatment give insurance companies ammunition to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or were caused by something else.
Statute of Limitations Exceptions: While the general deadline is three years, certain situations may have shorter time limits—such as accidents involving government vehicles or entities.
Financial Pressure: The sooner your case is resolved, the sooner you receive compensation to cover medical bills, replace lost income, and move forward with your life.
Peace of Mind: Having an experienced attorney handling your case allows you to focus on what matters most—your recovery and your family.
Our Commitment to Colorado Families
At Eddington Law, we’re more than just personal injury attorneys—we’re members of the Colorado community with deep roots in Denver and Steamboat Springs. We understand the unique challenges our state presents, from mountain driving hazards to urban traffic congestion. We’re committed to serving our neighbors and ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable when they cause harm.
When you choose Eddington Law, you’re choosing a firm that:
- Has served Colorado families for over 35 years
- Maintains offices in Denver and Steamboat Springs for convenient access
- Provides personalized attention throughout your case
- Works on contingency fees—no upfront costs
- Has a proven track record of successful verdicts and settlements
- Treats every client with compassion, respect, and dignity
We know this is one of the most difficult times in your life. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing and rebuilding.
Contact a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer Today
Contact Eddington Law today:
- Call (303) 815-1585
- Visit our website at eddington.law
- Stop by our Denver or Steamboat Springs office