Denver Car Accident Attorney

A car accident is a tragic occurrence that happens daily across the roads and highways of the United States. What can make an already difficult situation more tragic is when a car accident is caused due to the negligent activities of an individual driver.

If you or a loved one is experiencing pain, suffering, and bodily injury after a Denver car accident, you may be eligible for financial compensation. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer in Denver for guidance.

“I highly recommend Dulin McQuinn Young. I was in a car accident and it was a relief to hand over my claim to them. They explained the entire process and were a pleasure to work with.”- K.M.

Our Denver Car Accident Case Results

We are proud to represent car accident victims in Denver and across Colorado with integrity and fierce dedication. Some notable settlements and verdicts we have secured on behalf of our clients include:

• $3,000,000 Settlement: Policy limits – Contested liability catastrophic injury against commercial driver; Arapahoe County, CO.
• $2,400,000 Verdict: Jury trial verdict against a private driver in Douglas County, CO; $150,000 offer before trial ($4,000,000 total judgment)
• $1,250,000 Settlement: Policy limits settlement against private driver; $400,000 initial offer by insurance company.

Meet Our Attorneys

We Are Available 24/7 To Assist You After a Car Accident

At Dulin McQuinn Young, we understand that the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, and our team is here to support you every step of the way. We understand that each case is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our team will work closely with you to understand your specific circumstances and build a compelling car crash case on your behalf.

Interested in learning more about what it’s like working with our Denver car accident lawyers? We offer a free car accident case review. During this free consultation, one of our team members will evaluate your case, answer your questions, and provide guidance on your legal options.

Resources on this page

• Denver Car Accident Injury Rates
• Potential Injuries Sustained From Car Accidents In Denver
• Damages In Denver Motor Vehicle Accident Cases
• What Are the Car Insurance Requirements and Laws for Colorado?
• How is Liability Determined in Colorado?
• Colorado Statute Of Limitations For Car Accidents
• Why Car Accidents Are A National Public Health Emergency
• Why Do Motor Vehicle Accidents Happen?
• Fatality Rates for Car Accidents in Denver
• Denver Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions
• Why Work With A Trusted Attorney After Your Denver Car Accident?
• Contact Dulin McQuinn Young
• Areas We Serve

Denver Car Accident Injury Rates

Denver is the number one county for car accidents yielding incapacitating injuries, with 396 severe injuries in 2022, according to the Colorado Problem Identification report published by CDOT. A quarter of all individuals injured in Colorado car crashes receive serious injuries.

This data is an alarming snapshot of what driving is like on Denver roads.

If you find yourself in a devastating situation where these statistics represent you or someone in your family, just know you’re not alone. Our Denver car accident attorneys are ready to stand with you in your auto accident case to work on making this wrong right again.

What Are The Major Types Of Car Accidents in Denver?

Across the United States, car accident victims can suffer from experiencing the following types of auto accidents:

• Head-on collisions, also called frontal crashes
• T-Bone accidents, also called side crashes
• Hit-and-run accidents
• Rear-end accidents
• Sideswipe
• Vehicle rollovers
• Multi-vehicle accidents, also called multi-car pileups

The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHSTA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) only perform crash tests for vehicles to mimic some of these accidents. Many of NHTSA’s crash test protocols have not been updated since the organization began crash testing in the 1970s under the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

This can yield a lack of manufacturer safety protocols for many cars Denver drivers utilize on the roads daily. In a worst-case scenario, a car accident caused by a careless driver can be made much worse due to the design flaws of some cars.

Additionally, individuals in a car or other motor vehicle can experience any of the above accidents with any of the following types of motor vehicles:

• Motorcycles
• Trucks
• SUVs
• Buses
• Construction equipment or tractors
• Commercial vehicles
• Motorsport vehicles
• Delivery drivers
• Ridesharing drivers

And, finally, car accidents can occur involving individuals not using motor vehicles or other street-legal vehicles, such as:

• Pedestrians
• Pedestrians using mobility devices, such as a wheelchair or mobility scooter
• Individuals using electric scooters or skateboards
• Bicyclists
• Moped and hoverboard riders

Any damage or injuries sustained by those involved in this accident will depend on whether multiple vehicles were involved, which vehicles were involved, and whether safety equipment or protocols were used.

Potential Injuries Sustained From Car Accidents In Denver

CDOT has a classification system of how individuals are injured in Denver car accidents.

Evident incapacitating injuries mean that those injured in the auto accident have a non-fatal injury that “prevents the injured person from walking, driving, or normally continuing the activities previously capable of performing before being injured.” CDOT also classifies these injuries as “serious injuries.”

Non-evident incapacitating injuries are when the injuries (which could be major or minor) do not prevent the individual from performing said activities independently. This does not mean that these injuries do not require hospitalization or a hospital visit, merely that the long-term health outcomes of this individual have a more positive prognosis.

A car accident, whether involving another car or a different type of vehicle, can cause grave medical and emotional injuries to the victim. In Denver car accident cases, victims of a third party’s negligent activity can experience the following injuries as a result of a motor vehicle crash or collision:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal Column Injuries (SCIs)
• Soft Tissue Injuries
• Internal Bleeding
• Back Injuries
• Broken Bones
• Burns
• Catastrophic Injuries

Injuries such as the above shouldn’t be taken lightly. Even if you think what has happened to you or a loved one isn’t worth bringing a case to a Colorado court of law, talking to a trusted legal advisor such as our Denver car accident attorneys can help you understand your options after your car accident.

Damages In Denver Car Accident Cases

Victims of car accidents in Denver often suffer from physical and emotional trauma, loss of income, and mounting medical bills. Thus, if the negligence of a third party caused the accident, the victim may be entitled to compensation.

Like many states across the United States, individuals who experience a car accident as a result of another driver’s negligence or inattention to the road can receive compensatory and punitive damages in their car accident case.

Compensatory Damages In Denver Car Accidents

This type of damage can be split into economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are the tangible, real-world costs associated with a car accident. This category includes medical bills, long-term medical care costs, lost wages, property damage, and lost future earning potential.

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are intangible costs incurred after an accident by a victim. This can be the equivalent of pain and suffering, emotional distress, anxiety and depression, loss of consortium, society, and companionship.

Damages Caps In Colorado Car Accidents For Compensatory Damages

In Colorado, there are no caps on economic damages in Colorado. However, there are damage caps for non-economic damages as dictated by the Colorado Secretary of State. These damages are periodically adjusted for inflation per the current consumer price index for the Denver-Boulder area.

Depending on the date of the incident, these caps can range from $250,000 to $500,000 plus inflation. Additional damage caps might come into play if the plaintiff in the car accident claim was driving a governmental car or representing a governmental entity in Colorado.

A trusted legal team such as Dulin McQuinn Young would be able to assist you with navigating the complexities and nuances surrounding damages in Denver car accident claims.

Punitive Damages In Denver Car Accidents

As opposed to compensatory damages, which seek to offer financial compensation to assist with tangible and intangible costs of a car accident in Colorado, the goal of punitive damages is to discourage other parties from engaging in the same type of negligent behavior.

These damages are typically only awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was reckless, intentional, or malicious and are intended to signal that such behavior will not be tolerated.

In most cases in Colorado, punitive damage awards cannot be greater than the amount of compensatory damages.

Damages For Car Accident-Related Wrongful Death Cases

Non-economic damages stemming from wrongful death (even due to a car accident) are also subject to similar damage caps. These are also subject to the same damages schedule published on the Secretary of State’s website.

What Are the Car Insurance Requirements and Laws for Colorado?

Colorado requires car owners to carry minimum levels of liability insurance in the event of an accident. There are three types of mandatory liability insurance.

These are the following:

• Bodily injury liability;
• Property damage liability; and
• Uninsured or underinsured motorist (must be rejected in writing).

Bodily injury liability covers drivers who cause an accident where someone else is hurt or killed. Colorado requires all auto policies to provide at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person and $50,000 per accident.

Property damage liability pays for damages caused to another person’s property. In Colorado, the property damage minimum is $15,000 per accident. 

Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage covers bodily injury and medical expenses when a driver is hit by someone without insurance or without adequate insurance to pay for a driver’s injuries. While uninsured motorist coverage is not mandatory, vehicle owners must be offered this coverage.

Uninsured motorist coverage has to be rejected in writing. As of January 1, 2009, vehicle owners must also be offered medical payment coverage or Med Pay. 

Unless Med Pay is declined, $5,000 in coverage and a Med Pay premium will be automatically added to any new or renewing policy. As with other types of car insurance, vehicle owners may purchase additional amounts of Med Pay.

Colorado’s car insurance laws are mandatory. Vehicle owners who choose to operate their cars without insurance are subject to hefty fines, driver’s license suspension, and community service.

How is Liability Determined in Colorado?

Colorado is an at-fault car insurance state. This means that the at-fault party for a car accident is responsible for any property damage and personal injuries resulting from that accident.

The victim of a car accident typically recover their losses by filing a claim against the responsible party’s insurance company. However, an accident victim must prove that the other party’s actions were negligent to receive compensation for their injuries.

Insurance companies are not quick to admit fault especially when money is at issue. There will be an accident investigation to determine liability even if the fault seems obvious. 

A car accident attorney will conduct their investigation and gather evidence on behalf of their client, the victim, to build the strongest case possible for compensation. 

Evidence used to prove car accident liability includes:

• Photos of the accident scene;
• Traffic camera footage;
• Medical records;
• The police report;
• Eyewitness statements; and
• Vehicle damage.

Accident investigations are extremely important for both the victim and the liable party because Colorado follows the modified comparative negligence system.

Modified Comparative Negligence

The concept of negligence can be broken down into four elements: Duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages. Each state uses some form of negligence as the basis for personal injury claims, and Colorado uses modified comparative negligence.

Under this system of fault, victims who are found partially responsible for an accident may still recover for their injuries up to a point. However, any injury award is reduced by the percentage of fault. Anyone found equally responsible, 50% or more, for an accident may not seek damages from the other party for their injuries. 

For example, an accident victim is awarded $100,000 for their injuries. That same victim is found to be 20% at fault for the accident. 

The victim’s $100,000 award is reduced by 20% or $20,000 making the final compensation amount $80,000.

Determining liability can be complex and evidence can disappear with time. It is vital to contact an experienced Denver car accident attorney to start an accident investigation immediately to preserve a liability claim. 

Statute Of Limitations For Colorado Car Accidents

For motor vehicle-related injuries, the statute of limitations is 3 years, starting from the date of discovery of the injuries.

However, if the accident results in the wrongful death of the family member or the victim’s injuries cause them to pass away, that statute of limitations shifts to 2 years after the victim’s death date.

Regardless of how much time you have to start proceedings in your Denver car accident case, never delay in beginning work on your car accident case. The longer you wait, the more likely the evidence, witnesses, and other supporting documentation needed in your case will be more difficult to track down.

Why Car Accidents Are A National Public Health Emergency

Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) considers car accidents and motor vehicle crashes a public health crisis. Based on population, the United States has the highest motor vehicle crash deaths out of 29 high-income countries.

According to 2020 data, the CDC reported:

• 41,000 individuals died in crashes across the country
• 110 people die in motor vehicle and car accidents daily
• 2.1 million visits to emergency rooms are attributable to motor vehicle crashes
• $430 billion was lost in the U.S. economy due to medical bills and lives lost

In the United States in 2021 alone, there were 5.4 million injuries severe enough to require a medical evaluation as noted by research by the National Safety Council (NSC).

Why Do Car Accidents Happen – Common Causes

In most cases, a driver who is overwhelmingly at fault in a car accident will likely not be actively attempting to hurt, injure, or kill another person. So what would cause a Denver driver to be negligent on the road?

According to research from NHSTA’s Crash Stats program, car accidents are primarily caused by driver error. 94% of crashes in this data pool are associated with errors from the driver, which equates to over 2 million crashes in this study.

Common driver errors NHSTA reported include:

• Paying inadequate attention to the road or surroundings
• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Taking a curve or turn too quickly
• Performing illegal driving maneuvers
• Judging other driver behaviors incorrectly
• Getting inadequate sleep
• Losing control of the vehicle
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

As the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) found in its 2022 Problem Identification report that a large majority of all traffic accidents in Denver are preventable. If negligent drivers paid more attention to the road, there would likely be a notable decrease in car accidents.

Understanding Driving Under The Influence

Additionally, the use of alcohol and legal and illegal drugs can impact how deadly a car accident can be. In fact, in research performed by CDOT, 36.6% of fatal motor vehicle crashes were classified as “impaired crashes,” – meaning that at least one of the parties responsible for the car accident was driving under the influence of substances such as drugs or alcohol.

Car Accident Fatality Rates In Denver

In 2022, 64 car accidents yielded 67 fatalities in Denver County, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). This is the third-highest fatality rate for any county in the Centennial State. Statewide in 2022, there were 681 fatal crashes which caused 745 deaths.

Denver Car Accident FAQs:

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Car Accident in Denver?

Here are some steps you should take after an accident in Denver:

• Stay calm and check for injuries. The most important thing is to make sure that you and everyone else involved in the accident is safe. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately.
• Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible. If your vehicle is blocking traffic, move it to a safe location as soon as possible. If you cannot move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights and wait for help to arrive.
• Call the police. The police will come to the scene of the accident and file a report. This report will be important if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
• Exchange information with the other driver(s). Get the name, driver’s license number, insurance information, and contact information of the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
• Take pictures of the scene of the accident. This includes pictures of the damage to the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any injuries you or others may have sustained.
• Seek medical attention. Even if you do not feel injured, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident. This is to document your injuries and make sure that they are properly treated.

After you have taken these initial steps, we recommend that you contact a Denver accident attorney. We can help you understand your legal rights and options, and represent you in negotiations with the insurance company.

Do I Need to Go to Court for a Denver Car Accident Claim, or Can It Be Settled Outside of Court?

Whether or not you need to go to court for a Denver car accident claim depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of damages you are seeking, and the willingness of the insurance company to settle your claim.

In many cases, car accident claims can be settled outside of court, through a process called mediation. In mediation, a neutral third party, called a mediator, helps the parties reach a settlement agreement. This is often a faster and less expensive way to resolve a claim than going to court.

However, if you have suffered serious injuries or are seeking a significant amount of damages, you may need to go to court to get the compensation you deserve. In court, a judge will decide the outcome of your case based on the evidence presented.

We can help you decide whether to settle your claim or go to court. We have the experience and resources to negotiate with insurance companies and to represent you in court if necessary. We will fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.

Here are some of the factors that we will consider when advising you on whether to settle or go to court:

• The severity of your injuries.
• The amount of damages you are seeking.
• The willingness of the insurance company to settle.
• The likelihood of success in court.
• The cost of litigation.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and we can discuss your Denver accident case in more detail.

What Evidence Will Be Important for My Denver Car Accident Case?

In building a strong case for your Denver car accident, there is key evidence that holds significant importance. At Dulin McQuinn Young, we understand the critical role this evidence plays in supporting your claim.

• Accident Scene Details: Gathering evidence from the accident scene is crucial. This includes photographs of the vehicles involved, the positions they were in, road conditions, skid marks, and any debris.
• Vehicle Damage Documentation: Photographs of the damage to your vehicle and the other vehicles involved can provide visual proof of the collision’s severity.
• Eyewitness Statements: Statements from witnesses who saw the accident occur can provide unbiased testimony that strengthens your version of events.
• Medical Records: Comprehensive medical records detailing your injuries, treatments, and prognosis provide a clear understanding of the impact the accident had on your well-being.
• Medical Bills and Expenses: Collect records of medical bills, rehabilitation costs, prescription expenses, and any other financial losses incurred due to the accident.
• Lost Wages Documentation: If your injuries caused you to miss work, documents showing your lost wages and the impact on your income are important.
• Correspondence: Maintain a record of all communication related to the accident, including interactions with insurance companies and any parties involved.
• Police Reports: A police report will document the details of the accident, including the time, date, location, and circumstances of the crash. It will also include the names and contact information of the drivers involved, as well as any witnesses.
• Expert Opinions: If necessary, expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals can lend credibility to your case.

By compiling and preserving this evidence, we can construct a comprehensive case that underscores the extent of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the resulting damages. Our commitment as your legal representation is to utilize this evidence strategically to advocate for the best possible outcome in your Denver car accident case.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Denver Car Accident Lawyer, and How Is Payment Handled?

Hiring a Denver car accident attorney doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when it comes to the cost. We’re here to provide clarity and guidance throughout the process.

When you work with us, you won’t need to worry about upfront fees or out-of-pocket expenses. We operate on a contingency fee basis. What that means is that we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. It’s a risk-free arrangement that ensures your financial situation remains secure while pursuing your claim.

When we do secure compensation for you, our fee is a percentage of the amount recovered. This percentage will be discussed and agreed upon before we start working on your case, so there are no surprises. This approach aligns our interests with yours – the better your outcome, the better the compensation for both of us.

Our goal is to make the legal process as smooth as possible for you. We understand the stress that can come from dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, so we aim to alleviate that burden by handling legal matters and ensuring you have access to quality representation without financial strain.

Feel free to reach out to us for a free consultation where we can discuss your case, the potential compensation, and how the payment process works. We’re here to be your partners through this journey and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve without added worry about legal costs.

Why Work With A Trusted Lawyer After Your Denver Car Accident?

In the aftermath of your car accident, it is important to seek legal representation. Hiring a trusted Denver car accident lawyer after your accident can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. A skilled auto accident attorney, like those that make up the Dulin McQuinn Young team, can help you navigate the complex legal process that follows.

Whether you are negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action against the responsible party, a car accident lawyer in Denver can protect your interests. Always make sure to request a consultation with your prospective legal partner before working with them to see if you are a good fit.

Experience, Expertise, And Trust: Dulin McQuinn Young Is The Law Firm To Count On

At the law firm of Dulin McQuinn Young, we are proud to work with our clients to ensure they get the justice and due process that their car accident case deserves. While nothing can ever take away the pain and suffering after a car accident, our team does what we can to make things right.

As one of Colorado’s best personal injury attorney teams, we’ll work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve and that those responsible for you or your loved one’s accident are held accountable.

Getting started is as easy as requesting your free car accident case review. A real team member will be in touch in just 24 hours to schedule your free consultation, so contact us today.

Car Accident Lawyer Near Me

We serve all of Denver, CO, and the surrounding neighborhoods including:

Aurora | Capitol Hill | LoDo (Lower Downtown) | Highland | Cherry Creek | Washington Park | River North Arts District (RiNo) | Uptown (North Capital Hill)  | Lakewood | Baker (South Broadway) | Athmar Park | Five Points | Congress Park | Park Hill | City Park | Glendale | Cheesman Park | Sloan’s Lake | Platt Park | Sunnyside | Berkeley | Curtis Park | Stapleton | West Highland | Belcaro | Hilltop | Montclair | Cole | Cherry Creek North | Globeville | University Hills | Whittier | Virginia Village | University Park | Colorado Springs

You can find our law firm conveniently located at:

4949 Syracuse St. #400 Denver, Colorado 80237