If you had the misfortune of getting injured in a car accident in Grand Junction, you should seek legal representation immediately. Before 2003, Colorado was a no-fault state. Not anymore. After an auto accident, you will usually file a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. It is no secret that insurance companies don’t play a fair game with auto accident victims. You may end up accepting a much lower settlement without an attorney. The good news is hiring a personal injury lawyer in Grand Junction doesn’t have to be expensive. Most attorneys work on a contingency fee, which is only payable if there is recovery. Below are some key aspects of Colorado laws and how you can select a good attorney. 

The statute of limitations

In Colorado, the statute of limitations gives a window of three years to car accident victims to file a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party. If you lost a loved one in the crash and want to file a wrongful death claim, the usual deadline is two years. As you file a claim with the insurance company and negotiate a settlement, the three-year deadline is still running. 

Comparative fault in Colorado

What happens when two or more drivers share fault in a car accident? In such circumstances, the modified comparative fault rule is used in Colorado. You can sue the other party as long as you are not more at fault than them. Also, your fault will determine the final settlement. For instance, if you were 20% at fault and were given $40,000 in a settlement, you will ultimately get $32,000 as your compensation. 

Do you need to report the accident?

As a driver, you have your legal responsibilities after a car accident in Colorado. You are required to report the crash if there was death, injury, or significant property damage involved. Call 911 if someone is injured and inform the local police.

Choosing an attorney

Not all injury lawyers in Colorado have experience with car accident claims. Find a lawyer who has represented clients at trial and can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. The first meeting with an injury lawyer doesn’t have to cost a penny, and you can ask questions related to their work profile. You can also compare personal injury law firms based on online reviews. 

No lawyer can promise an outcome, but you can expect a fair settlement with the right one. Just hire an attorney soon after the crash.