Personal Injury

Personal Injury Lawyer in Colorado: Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation under Colorado personal injury law. At High Plains Law, we are committed to helping injury victims recover the damages they deserve with fierce advocacy and compassionate counsel. Whether you've suffered injuries from a slip and fall, workplace accident, or some other type of personal injury, we are here to fight for your rights.

Understanding Personal Injury Cases in Colorado

Personal injury law in Colorado allows victims to seek compensation when another party’s negligence leads to injuries. Common types of personal injury claims include:

• Motor vehicle accidents (see our Auto Accidents page for more details)
• Slip and fall accidents – Property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. Failing to address hazards can make them liable for injuries.
• Workplace injuries – Some workplace accidents may involve third-party claims beyond workers’ compensation.
• Product liability – If a defective product causes injury, manufacturers and retailers may be held accountable.

When to Initiate a Personal Injury Case in Colorado

Under Colorado law, injury victims generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit (three years for car accidents). Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation. Consulting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible ensures your case is filed within the statute of limitations.

Additionally, contacting a personal injury lawyer quickly can help ensure that you build your case the right way, put the insurance company on notice, and maximize your ultimate recovery.

Compensation Available in a Personal Injury Case

When you suffer an injury due to negligence, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses – Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, therapy, medication, and future treatments.
• Lost wages – Compensation for income lost due to the injury and potential future earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering – Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
• Property damage – If personal belongings were damaged in the accident, such as a vehicle in a car crash, you may be entitled to repair or replacement costs.
• Punitive damages – In cases of extreme negligence or recklessness, additional damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party.

Generally, injured persons hiring an attorney recover significantly more. One 2023 study showed that 91% of people hiring attorneys received settlements. Those who hired an attorney received an average of $77,600, while self-represented people only walked away with an average of $17,600. This disparity more than makes up for the lawyer's contingency fees in such matters.

Why Gathering Evidence is Critical

To build a strong case, it’s essential to collect and preserve evidence. Key pieces of evidence in a personal injury case include:

• Medical records – Documenting your injuries and treatment.
• Accident reports – Police or incident reports that establish fault.
• Photographs and videos – Capturing the scene of the accident and injuries.
• Eyewitness statements – Testimony from people who saw the accident happen.
• Expert testimony – Medical professionals or accident reconstruction experts can help strengthen your case.

Acting quickly to gather evidence can make a significant difference in proving your claim. Insurance companies and defendants may attempt to dispute liability, making documented proof even more essential. Between dealing with your injuries, work, and family, managing this process can be overwhelming, but a skilled Colorado personal injury lawyer can make sure you have a complete file for your case.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are in the business of taking in more in premiums than they pay out in claims--simple as that. Therefore, it is in their interest to pay as little as possible on your claim. An insurance company may:

• Offer a low initial settlement to resolve your case quickly.
• Try to shift blame to minimize their liability.
• Use your own statements against you to reduce your payout.
• Delay processing your claim in hopes that you will accept a lower offer.

Before speaking with an insurance adjuster, consult a personal injury lawyer to avoid common pitfalls that could hurt your claim. Remember, insurance companies employ experienced negotiators trained to minimize payouts and, when dealing with unrepresented claimants, secure admissions that may be damaging to the claim. Without legal representation, you may unknowingly accept an offer far lower than what you deserve.

How a Colorado Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer can make a significant impact on the outcome of your case. At High Plains Law, we:

• Investigate your claim – Gathering the necessary evidence to prove fault and damages.
• Handle negotiations – Fighting back against insurance companies that try to undervalue your claim.
• Assess your total damages – Including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs.
• Take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

As mentioned above, studies show that injury victims who hire attorneys recover significantly higher settlements than those who handle their cases alone. Legal representation ensures that you are not pressured into accepting an unfair settlement that does not cover all of your losses.

Colorado's Comparative Negligence Law

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are found partially responsible for your injury, your compensation may be reduced. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may be unable to recover damages. This makes it essential to have a skilled lawyer who can present a strong case on your behalf and counter any claims that you were at fault.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Personal Injury Case

Many injury victims unknowingly harm their cases by making avoidable mistakes. To protect your claim, here are a few general guidelines to follow:

1. Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company without legal representation.
2. Do not accept the first settlement offer – It is likely far below what you deserve.
3. Follow your doctor’s recommendations – Ignoring medical advice can suggest that your injuries are not severe.
4. Avoid discussing your case on social media – Insurers may use your posts against you.
5. Hire an attorney early – The sooner you get legal help, the stronger your case will be.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

If you’ve been injured in Colorado, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact High Plains Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.

Our legal team is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for you. Whether through a settlement or court trial, we fight aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation.