If you were in a car accident that was not your fault and are seeking justice, a lawsuit can be a helpful tool. With the right information and knowledge, you may build a strong case proving that the auto accident was the source of undue pain and losses that you should be reimbursed for. In building your case, there are a few key Colorado laws you will want to be aware of.
Your car accident case, which is a personal injury lawsuit, is subject to the Colorado Statute of Limitations, which the Colo. Rev. Stat. Section 13-80-101 outlines. In a regular car accident, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim against the party at fault. It can be beneficial to file your claim soon after the incident because the evidence and sequence of events are fresh, which can help build a solid case. However, if your injuries develop over time, you can still file a case for just compensation as long as it is within the three-year period. Keep in mind that if you are in an incident involving a government vehicle, you may have a shorter timeframe to file. In such instances, your local government agency can provide detailed information on your rights and the claims process.
Another regulation to consider is comparative fault. In Colorado, when the court finds the party bringing the lawsuit partially at fault for the accident, it uses this rule to determine how much the injured party, or plaintiff, should receive. In short, the judge or jury decides what percentage the plaintiff was at fault for and deducts that from the total amount of damages. Understanding this may be helpful in the negotiation process if you try to settle outside of court.
These laws and regulations are strong contributors to the outcome of your auto accident claim. With the right legal support and knowledge, you may be able to properly pursue and receive the reparations you seek.