It can be confusing to know what to do after a car accident in Denver. Keep this checklist handy in case you ever need to take steps to protect your legal rights after a Denver car accident.
1. Call 911
Colorado law requires you to report any motor vehicle accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the police. Here are some tips for dealing with the police:
- Keep your statements concise.
- Stick to factual statements.
- Be polite.
- Avoid speculating or admitting fault.
The law enforcement officer can document the scene and create an official report. Ask the law enforcement officer how to obtain a copy of the police report when it becomes available. You will need this document to give to your insurance company.
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t initially feel injured. The adrenaline that you experience may mask symptoms. Receiving prompt medical attention can ensure that your injuries are accurately diagnosed and treated. This medical treatment can also establish a record of your injuries, which can help to substantiate your case later when you make an insurance claim.
Keep all of your medical records and bills to further support your case.
3. Exchange Information
Ask the other driver for their:
- Name
- Contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance information
- License plate number
If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their names and contact information, too.
4. Preserve Evidence and Document Your Injuries
Take pictures of the accident scene, including:
- Cross streets
- Traffic signs and signals
- Road and weather conditions
- Skid marks
- Debris on the roadway
- Damage to all vehicles
- Your injuries
Keep all documentation and evidence related to your accident, including:
- The accident report
- Your written narrative of the accident
- Hospital bills
- Doctor bills
- Doctor’s notes
- Dashcam footage of the accident
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Vehicle repair notes
- Entries in a journal detailing your daily pain and suffering
- Communications from the insurance company
This information can help establish your claim, prove liability, and show the full extent of your injuries.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
Many insurance companies require their insured drivers to report any accident they are in, even if they are not at fault.
6. Be Careful When Dealing with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
When dealing with someone else’s insurance company, you should employ the services of an experienced car accident attorney. Insurance companies try to twist claimants’ words to get them to admit fault or that they are “fine,” which they use to deny or minimize the value of their claim.
Avoid talking to insurance companies or signing any documents from them without legal counsel. You should also be careful what you post about the accident, as insurance adjusters may closely monitor your feed for any statements that contradict your version of events.
7. Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
If you are injured in a car accident, you can turn to Dulin McQuinn Young for help. An experienced car accident lawyer can take timely legal action to preserve your rights and file your claims within the applicable statute of limitations.