Our Denver Car Accident Lawyers Help Residents After a Car Accident Impacts Their Life
You are likely confused and overwhelmed. Maybe the insurance company keeps calling, and you’re unsure what to say. Perhaps the stack of medical bills on the counter is starting to keep you up at night. Maybe you struggle to complete household chores with limited mobility after the accident.
Our Denver car accident lawyers at Levine Law are here to help with the above and more. First, we want to help you understand your legal options. It’s free to call, and there’s no obligation.
Call and ask our experienced Denver auto accident lawyers your questions. If we can help you, we will. We will answer your questions, help you get a rental car, explain the legal process, and serve as a point of contact for insurance companies.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Common Causes of Denver Car Accidents
Unfortunately, car accidents are common in a busy city like Denver. Understanding the factors that contribute to these accidents can help foster safer driving habits and potentially avoid future collisions.
Below, we explore some of the most frequent causes of car accidents in Denver and their impact on the city’s roads and residents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car crashes in Denver. The proliferation of smartphones and other electronic devices has only exacerbated this issue.
Whether texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the GPS, or even eating while driving, distractions that take the driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving significantly increase the crash risk.
Speeding
Speeding is another prevalent cause of car accidents in Denver. Exceeding the speed limit reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, such as a car braking unexpectedly or an obstacle appearing on the road. High-speed collisions typically result in more severe injuries and fatalities, making speeding a critical concern for traffic safety in the city.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major cause of car accidents in Denver. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, poor judgment, and a lowered ability to control their vehicles. Despite stringent laws and public awareness campaigns, DUI incidents continue to pose a substantial threat to road safety.
Weather Conditions
Denver’s weather can be variable, with sudden snowstorms or heavy rains creating hazardous driving conditions. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and the challenge of driving in inclement weather contribute to many accidents.
Drivers unprepared for sudden weather changes or unable to navigate these conditions safely often find themselves involved in collisions.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving behaviors, such as aggressive driving, tailgating, and frequent lane changes without signaling, are common culprits behind many car accidents in Denver. These actions create unpredictable situations on the road, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
Reckless drivers endanger themselves and pose serious risks to other motorists and pedestrians.
By understanding the common causes of car accidents in Denver, drivers can become more aware of the risks and take steps to drive more safely. While external factors like weather conditions are beyond our control, many accidents can be prevented through responsible driving practices.
If you’ve been involved in a car wreck in Denver, whether due to distracted driving, speeding, or any other reason, seeking legal assistance from Levine Law can help you navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Injuries Seen in Denver Car Accidents
Car accidents in Denver can lead to a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. Understanding the types of injuries commonly associated with car accidents can help victims recognize the importance of seeking prompt medical attention and appropriate legal support. Below, we discuss some of the most frequently seen injuries in car accidents in Denver.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. It occurs when the force of the impact causes a sudden head and neck jerk, straining the muscles and ligaments.
Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. While often considered a minor injury, whiplash can lead to long-term discomfort and necessitate medical treatment and physical therapy.
Broken Bones
The impact force in car accidents frequently results in broken bones. Fractures can occur in various body parts, including arms, legs, ribs, and the collarbone. Depending on the severity, broken bones may require immobilization, surgery, and extensive rehabilitation.
In some cases, severe fractures can lead to permanent disabilities, affecting the victim’s ability to perform daily activities.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries are some of the most serious consequences of car accidents. A TBI can occur when the head strikes an object or is subjected to a violent motion.
Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and emotional changes. Immediate medical evaluation is crucial for any head injury sustained in a car accident.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are particularly devastating as they can result in partial or complete paralysis. The force of a collision can damage the vertebrae, disks, or ligaments in the spine. Injuries to the spinal cord often require emergency medical treatment and can have long-term consequences, including loss of mobility, sensation, and independence.
Internal Injuries
Car accidents can also cause internal injuries, such as damage to internal organs, internal bleeding, and ruptured spleen. These injuries are not always immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Victims may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, dizziness, and fainting, which medical professionals should urgently address.
Cuts and Lacerations
Cuts and lacerations from broken glass, metal, or loose objects within the vehicle are common in car accidents. While many cuts are superficial and require minimal treatment, deeper lacerations might necessitate stitches or surgical intervention.
Infection risk is also a concern, making medical evaluation important even for minor injuries.
Recognizing the variety of injuries that can result from car accidents in Denver is crucial for ensuring proper medical care and legal support. Injuries can have significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts on victims and their families.
If you have sustained injuries in a car accident, whether minor or severe, it is essential to seek legal assistance from Levine Law to navigate the complexities of your case and secure the compensation you deserve.
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When Do You Need an Attorney After a Car Accident?
Car accidents are unfortunate events that can leave you feeling stressed, confused, and overwhelmed. The aftermath of an accident can involve complex legal and insurance issues, especially if there are significant injuries or disputes over liability.
Knowing when to seek the assistance of an attorney is crucial to ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your losses. This section will guide you through the various situations in which hiring an attorney can be beneficial after a car accident.
Immediately Following the Accident
The moments right after a car accident can be overwhelming, filled with confusion and worry. Your immediate priority should be ensuring the safety of everyone involved and seeking medical attention if necessary.
Once the dust has settled, it’s crucial to consider contacting an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced car accident attorney can provide invaluable guidance from the outset, helping you navigate the complex processes that follow ensuring that your rights are protected and that you take the appropriate steps to secure your claim.
When Facing Severe Injuries
If you or any passengers have suffered severe injuries in the accident, it’s imperative to seek legal help immediately. Severe injuries can result in extensive medical bills, long-term treatment, and rehabilitation.
An attorney can help you secure compensation to cover these expenses. They can also assist in documenting your injuries and medical treatments, which is vital for building a strong case for your compensation claim.
When Liability is Disputed
Determining who is at fault in a car accident is not always straightforward. It is wise to consult with an attorney for any dispute or uncertainty regarding liability. Insurance companies often try to shift blame or minimize their payout.
An attorney can conduct a detailed investigation, collect evidence, and advocate on your behalf to ensure that the liable parties are held accountable and that you receive fair compensation.
When Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are primarily concerned with protecting their bottom line, sometimes resulting in them offering settlements far less than you deserve. A Denver automobile accident attorney can handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance companies.
They can evaluate settlement offers accurately and will fight to ensure you receive a fair amount covering all your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
When You Are Unfamiliar with Legal Processes
Navigating the legal landscape can be daunting, especially when dealing with a car accident’s aftermath. Hiring an attorney can relieve some of the burden if you’re unfamiliar with the legal processes.
They can guide you through each step, from filing a claim to representing you in court if necessary. With their expertise, you can rest assured that your case’s legal aspects are handled efficiently and competently.
Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit
Throughout Colorado, drivers are expected to behave reasonably and safely. This means avoiding aggressive driving, staying within the speed limit, paying attention to what other drivers are doing, and obeying all safety rules. A Denver-area driver who fails to drive reasonably safely puts others at risk.
Breaking the rules of the road or driving unsafely or carelessly is considered a breach of legal duty and is called “negligence.” When a person is legally negligent, he or she can be held responsible for the costs of all injuries due to that negligence.
In other words, if a person’s carelessness causes a car wreck, the careless driver must pay damages to the injured victim(s).
A negligent driver is likely to cause the following types of accidents:
- Distracted Driving Accidents
- Drunk Driving Accidents
- Rear-End Collisions
- Winter Weather Accidents
- Head-On Collisions
- Multi-Vehicle Crashes
- And more…
In Colorado auto accident cases, the injured person (or the injured person’s attorney) must prove that the other driver was negligent and that the negligence caused the crash that resulted in your injuries. Their lawyer must also show how severe the injuries are to recover compensation.
A victim receives compensation for his or her auto accident injuries either by settling in an out-of-court agreement with the responsible driver’s insurer or by filing a lawsuit with the courts.
Remember to Take Action within 3 Years of the Car Accident
What is the statute of limitations in Denver for a car accident lawsuit? Car accident cases in Denver and across Colorado are subject to a three-year statute of limitations. You will only have three years from the crash date to file your claim (with a few limited exceptions). If you fail to act within the three-year deadline, you could be permanently barred from pursuing legal action.
Additionally, if the car crash resulted in death, under Colorado law, you will generally only have two years to file a wrongful death action. Because the statutes of limitation can be confusing and so much is at stake, it is important to seek advice from a competent attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
A Denver car accident attorney experienced in handling fatal accident cases can ensure you will not be stopped from pursuing a lawsuit against the responsible parties.
Compensation Available for Auto Accident Victims
There are two types of compensation that crash victims may be eligible to receive: Economic damages and non-economic damages. Economic damages are financial losses. In a typical case, these damages will consist of:
- Medical Expenses – All medical expenses you incur about your auto accident injuries.
- Lost Income – Wages, salary, tips, benefits, and any other compensation you cannot earn due to your injuries from the crash.
- Loss of Earning Capacity – Future loss of income due to inability to work or being forced to take a lower-paying job.
- Other Out-of-Pocket Costs – Gas; ridesharing costs; payments to landscapers, cleaners, nannies, and other service providers; costs to modify your home or vehicle; and all other costs you incur due to injury.
Non-economic damages are losses that are not financial but for which financial compensation is still available under Colorado law.
Possible non-economic damages in an auto accident claim include:
- Emotional Trauma – Fear, anxiety, or other psychological trauma you experience as a result of being involved in a serious auto accident.
- Pain and Suffering – Physical pain and suffering you experience due to your injuries.
- Scarring and Disfigurement – Permanent scarring and disfigurement due to burns, severe fractures, loss of limbs, and other accident-related injuries.
- Loss of Society, Services, Support, Companionship, and Consortium
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Many of these types of non-financial losses will have financial aspects as well. For example, you may need to see a psychologist or psychiatrist for treatment of emotional trauma or anxiety, you may need to buy pain medications, and you may be unable to work as a result of significant scarring.
When this is the case, you are entitled to just compensation for your out-of-pocket financial losses and the non-financial impacts of your injuries.
The Most Dangerous Intersections in Denver for Motorists
Congestion, construction, poor visibility, failure to yield, and lack of signage are some common reasons that accidents are more likely at intersections, but one could argue driving in Denver is dangerous regardless of the intersections with a particular accident rate.
According to data from the Colorado Department of Transportation logging car accidents in 2019, Denver leads the state in total crashes by nearly 10,000 more yearly accidents, followed by Arapahoe and Adams counties.
The top three intersections in Denver with the most accidents include:
- S Santa Fe Dr & W Alameda Ave – this is located near the I-25 overpass just east of the South Platte River.
- E Colfax Ave & N Downing St – this is located near the City Park West and Capital Hill neighborhoods
- W Colfax Ave & Speer Blvd – this is located near the Colorado Convention Center
If you’ve been in an accident at these intersections or anywhere throughout the city, Levine Law can help you.
Seven Warning Signs of an Injury Following a Car Accident
When you are involved in a car accident, it can be difficult to figure out if you need medical attention. Adrenaline and stress can mask the symptoms of many types of injuries, and some injuries will trigger gradually worsening symptoms. This is why our Denver accident lawyers always recommend seeking medical attention after a vehicle collision.
But, if you are at home and wondering if you should see a doctor, here are seven signs that you may need treatment for a traumatic injury:
Your Pain Isn’t Going Away
If you were in pain but didn’t see any physical signs of an injury, you may have chosen to go home to rest instead of going to the hospital. But, if it has now been several days and your pain still isn’t going away, this is a sign that you should see a doctor for a diagnosis
Your Pain is Getting Worse
Likewise, if your pain is getting worse, this is a sign that you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Worsening pain can potentially be a sign of a serious internal injury, and receiving treatment promptly could be critical to avoid long-term effects.
You are Experiencing Headaches
Concussions are common injuries in all types of auto accidents, and if you have a concussion, it will be important for you to rest – both physically and mentally – until your brain has recovered. Whiplash, spinal cord injuries, and various other potentially serious injuries can cause headaches as well
You are Experiencing Stiffness or Limited Mobility
Stiffness and limited mobility can be symptomatic of a variety of different traumatic injuries. Any physical discomfort or limitations should be promptly assessed for medical treatment needs from your lower back to your wrists and ankles.
You are Experiencing Hearing or Visual Impairments
Hearing and visual impairments can also be symptomatic of different types of injuries. While this includes direct damage to the eyes and ears, it also includes various types of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and spinal cord injuries (SCI)
You Have Difficulty Remembering, Concentrating, or Sleeping
Difficulty remembering, difficulty concentrating, and other cognitive impairments are common symptoms of concussions and other forms of TBI. The same is true for sleeping. Even if you think it is simply your pain that is keeping you up at night, this may not necessarily be the case
You are Having Difficulty Using the Restroom
Finally, difficulty using the restroom can be a potential symptom of SCI, particularly in the lower back. Similarly, if you are experiencing a loss of bowel or bladder control after an auto accident, you should see a doctor promptly
Contact Levine Law to Speak with Our Experienced Denver Car Accident Lawyers
For legal advice and assistance in your case, call Levine Law at 303-647-4002 to speak with an experienced Denver auto accident lawyer today, or contact us online now. Our accident attorneys manage various motor vehicle accidents, including truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, rideshare accidents, bus accidents, and more.
Consultations are free, and our firm handles cases on a contingency fee basis, so you will not be responsible for any fees unless we win your case. Our other locations include Loveland and Fort Collins.
Our No Win, No Fee Guarantee
At Levine Law, we understand that the aftermath of a car accident can be financially overwhelming, and the last thing you need is the added stress of legal fees. That is why we offer our No Win, No Fee Guarantee.
This means you do not have to worry about paying any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. Our commitment is to provide exceptional legal representation without adding to your financial burden.
How it Works
When you choose Levine Law for your car accident case under our No Win, No Fee Guarantee, we will handle all upfront costs associated with your claim. This includes filing fees, obtaining medical records, and expert witness fees.
You will not be required to pay any legal fees unless we secure a favorable settlement or verdict for your case. If we win, our fees will be a predetermined percentage of the compensation awarded, ensuring you keep most of the recovery.
Why Choose No Win, No Fee?
Our No Win, No Fee Guarantee is designed to provide peace of mind and access to justice, regardless of your financial situation. Everyone deserves high-quality legal representation, and this arrangement allows you to pursue your claim without fearing legal costs.
Our success is directly tied to your success, so our legal team is fully invested in achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Commitment to Our Clients
At Levine Law, our primary concern is the well-being of our clients. Our No Win, No Fee Guarantee reflects our dedication to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
We will work tirelessly on your behalf, utilizing our extensive experience and resources to build a strong case. Our compassionate team supports you every step of the way, providing personalized attention and strategic legal guidance.
Contact Us Today
If you have been involved in a car accident and are considering legal action, contact Levine Law today to learn more about our No Win, No Fee Guarantee. During your free consultation, we will discuss the details of your case and explain how we can help you navigate the legal process without upfront costs.
You can trust Levine Law to fight for your rights and work diligently to achieve justice.
INJURED? GET THE MONEY YOU DESERVE!
Call Levine Law Today at 303-333-8000 and Get Our Injury Lawyers Fighting for Your Rights.
Where Our Denver Office is Located
Take I-25 North to the Colorado Boulevard exit. Head north on Colorado Boulevard and turn left onto Cherry Creek South Dr. Our building is directly across from the large parking garage.
Denver Auto Accident FAQs
If someone else was 100 percent at fault in the accident, then he or she (or his or her auto insurance company) is liable for 100 percent of your accident-related losses. But what happens if you were partially at fault in the collision?
In Colorado, an accident victim’s percentage of fault is important in determining the compensation available. When it comes to a partial fault in an auto accident, Colorado follows a rule known as “modified comparative fault.”
This rule states:
- If you are 49 percent or less at fault in an accident, then your award of compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault; and,
- You are not entitled to financial compensation if you are 50 percent or more at fault in an accident.
Let’s say, for example, that an investigation finds you were 10 percent at fault in an accident, and your total losses amount to $200,000. Under Colorado’s modified comparative fault rule, you would be entitled to recover $180,000. However, if the investigation reveals that you were 50 percent at fault, your damages would be $0.
Establishing fault is a critical step in the legal process. To prevent the insurance companies from unfairly reducing or denying your compensation award, you must hire experienced Denver automobile accident lawyers who can present the evidence you need to prove your claim for damages.
Auto accident damages fall into two categories: economic and non-economic. Within these categories, accident victims can seek just compensation for their current and future losses. Depending on the victim’s injuries and when their accident claim settles (or goes to trial), current losses resulting from an accident can pale compared to the losses that the accident victim will continue to sustain.
A lawyer costs you nothing out-of-pocket. When you hire a lawyer to handle your claim, your attorney will represent you on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not have to pay anything out of pocket and will not be responsible for reimbursing any costs or paying any legal fees unless you receive a settlement or court award.
If you receive just compensation, the expenses incurred pursuing your claim will be deducted from your award, and your auto accident attorney’s legal fees will be calculated as a percentage of your financial recovery.
Unfortunately, many people incorrectly believe that this contingency fee arrangement means their attorney will receive the bulk of their award. In reality, even when factoring in legal fees and costs, the amount you recover with the help of an attorney is likely to far exceed any amount you might have been able to secure on your own.
At Levine Law, whenever we receive a settlement offer on behalf of a client, we help our clients understand exactly how much they will take home so that they can make an informed decision about how and when to resolve their claim.
Yes, you need to report the accident to your insurer (it is most likely required under the terms of your policy). However, you do not have to give a statement, and you should be careful to avoid saying anything the insurance companies might be able to use against you.
The best thing to do is to simply report the bare facts of the accident and then say that you need to speak with your attorney before saying anything further.
After a serious or fatal crash, there is a good chance that you will receive a settlement offer from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This is not a “win.” We can almost guarantee that the insurance company’s offer is far less than you deserve. You need to avoid settling too soon, starting with gaining a basic understanding of your legal rights.
It may seem biased to say you should avoid accepting a settlement without speaking to a Denver car accident lawyer. Insurance companies typically offer much less than the actual value of your case to make the case go away before you can fully treat your injuries.
You may not have had enough for other symptoms or injuries to appear. Only under very limited circumstances should you settle your claim without receiving clearance from a doctor — or having spoken to an experienced law firm.
Yes, if you have health insurance, you can (and should) use it. If you are entitled to compensation from one or more auto insurance companies, your health insurer will seek subrogation as part of the claims process.
It depends on what your doctor says. If your doctor says you need to rest, then you should rest. If your doctor says it is okay to resume light work, you can do it. While we understand you may not want to miss a paycheck, returning to work too soon could have even greater negative financial ramifications.
Yes. At most Colorado car accident law firms, it costs you nothing out-of-pocket to hire an attorney, and our Denver car accident lawyers will only take your case if we believe we can help you secure the compensation you would not be able to secure on your own.
If you have been seriously injured and want to ensure the insurance companies treat you fairly, the best way to protect yourself is to hire experienced legal representation.
