What Mistakes To Avoid After a Colorado Springs Car Accident
It may seem cut and dried: you were in an accident, you were hurt, so you should be reimbursed for accident-related expenses, right? Unfortunately, it’s not always that easy due to there being a few big mistakes to avoid after a car accident. In fact, some insurance companies have recently come under fire and are facing class action lawsuits for systematically underpaying auto claims.
When it comes to being compensated for the costs of your injuries and property damages, it is easy to make big mistakes that greatly impact your chances of recovery. On the other hand, with the right information and preparation, you can keep your claim safe and ensure you are getting the most accurate and complete settlement for your wreck. Let’s look at some of the most damaging mistakes to avoid after a car accident.
At the Scene of the Wreck
The moments immediately following a car accident can be chaotic and stressful. It’s important to know what steps to take in order to protect yourself and your legal rights. In this section, we will discuss mistakes you won’t want to make at the scene of the wreck.
Apologizing or Admitting Fault
In the aftermath of a car accident, you’ll want to be careful about what you say. Even if you believe you were at fault, it is best to refrain from apologizing or admitting fault. Anything you say can be used against you later on. Instead, focus on making sure everyone is okay and gather necessary information.
Neglecting to Gather Evidence
As soon as it is safe to do so, take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and any injuries you may have sustained. Collect contact information from witnesses, including their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. This evidence can be critical in establishing fault and determining the value of your claim.
Failing To Report the Crash
Even if the accident seems minor, you should always call the police and file an accident report. Failure to do so could result in serious consequences down the line.
Reporting the accident also establishes a record of the incident and helps to create an accurate account of what happened. If your accident took place in Colorado Springs, you can easily request your records online when you need them as evidence.
When Dealing With Insurance
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be a confusing and frustrating process. Insurance adjusters may try to pressure you into accepting a low settlement offer. In this section, we will cover mistakes that are often made when dealing with insurance companies.
Signing Paperwork From the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Be careful about signing any paperwork before you understand the full extent of your injuries and damages — you wouldn’t want to sign away your right to be compensated!
Review all documents carefully and consider consulting with your legal representative before signing anything.
Accepting the First Settlement You’re Offered
Insurance companies may offer a settlement soon after an accident. Be cautious about accepting this offer right away, as it may not fully cover your expenses. Your lawyer will help you understand the full extent of your injuries and damages before accepting any settlement.
When Seeking Compensation
If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. However, the legal process can be overwhelming, and having fierce legal representation on your side can make all the difference in your claim’s outcome. In this section, we will discuss some common mistakes to avoid when seeking compensation after a car accident.
Missing the Deadline To File Your Lawsuit
There is a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit after an accident. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state and by the type of claim. In Colorado, individuals who want to file a car accident claim will only have two years from the date of the accident to do so. Consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident to ensure you do not miss this deadline.
Not Hiring Strong Legal Representation
One of the biggest mistakes accident victims can make is failing to hire a competent auto accident lawyer to represent their interests. An attorney who has experience with motor vehicle accident claims can help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve. Likely, they will even uncover damages you didn’t realize you were entitled to but that you desperately need taken care of.
After the dust settles from a car accident, try to remain calm and focused so that you can handle the situation as efficiently and effectively as possible. By sidestepping the errors outlined above, you can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Remember, when it comes to recovering compensation after being injured in a car accident, Heuser & Heuser is on top of it! Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your case.
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions Or Schedule A Free Appointment? Click To Call (719) 520-9909
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions or Schedule A free Appointment? Click to Call (719) 520-9909
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know What My Injury Case Is Worth in Colorado Springs?
There are a variety of things we look at when evaluating your case and determining its value.
We look at how the accident occurred: How did someone else’s carelessness lead to the accident? Did your actions also contribute to the crash?
We also look at what sort of injuries you sustained: Do you have a permanent injury that will last the rest of your life? Are you going to have future medical bills?
We look at lost wages: Did you lose your job? If you have permanent work restrictions due to the accident, you may not be able to find a job very easily in the future.
These are only some of the factors that we look at in evaluating a claim. You may have additional losses to account for in a claim, and sometimes additional evidence or expert witnesses will be needed to support an evaluation.
At Heuser & Heuser, LLP, we can identify those factors during a free case evaluation, during which you tell us your story so we can take the first step in building a legal strategy at no financial risk to you.
Every case is unique and different. That’s why our lawyers at Heuser & Heuser, LLP give each case personal attention during case reviews and evaluations for potential claims.
Do You Usually Win Good Settlements for Your Clients in Southern Colorado Personal Injury Claims?
At Heuser & Heuser, LLP, we have a strong track record of positive case resolutions for our clients. We have settled hundreds, if not thousands, of cases where we’ve had large settlements.
We’ve had substantial verdicts. We go to the mat for our clients if necessary. We’ll appeal cases.
Each case and client has different needs and options, and we’ll do whatever it takes to take care of our clients. We can identify the right path for your case during a free case evaluation.
Why is it Important to Hire a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Claim in Colorado Springs?
Insurance companies are in business for a reason: to make money.
Anytime the insurance company is paying money on a claim, it means less money to their bottom line. They have literally hundreds of adjusters and hundreds of lawyers who are on their side trying to figure out how to prevent money from leaving their checkbooks.
Quite frankly, you do need a lawyer to help you through this because your lawyer will stand up for your interests and seek proper compensation on your behalf.
See What Our Clients Say
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions Or Schedule A Free Appointment? Click To Call (719) 520-9909
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions or Schedule A free Appointment? Click to Call (719) 520-9909
Our Attorneys
Gordon J. Heuser, Esq.
As a Colorado Springs native, Gordon has been practicing in Southern Colorado for 40+ years.…
Brennan D. Heuser, Esq.
Brennan Dale Heuser is a Colorado Springs native who enlisted in the U.S. Army in…
Shannon R. Colt, Esq.
Shannon Colt isn’t your typical attorney. Originally from Idaho, she moved to Colorado Springs as…
Ask a Question,
Describe Your Situation,
Request a Free Consultation
Contact Us And We’ll Tell You Everything You Need To Know!
Required Fields*
Your Information Is Safe With Us
We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your question or to schedule an appointment if requested.
Injured? Contact Heuser & Heuser, LLP. We Are Committed to Providing Southern Colorado Tailored Legal Guidance and Peace of Mind On the Road To Recovery!
- Tell us your story during a free consultation
- We will tell you if you have a case and assess potential value
- Our personal injury attorneys can handle the insurance companies
- Our experienced Colorado trial attorneys will seek a settlement for the money you need while you recover, and we will represent you in court if it is necessary to pursue fair and appropriate compensation for your injuries and expenses
- You only pay us if we win money for you
- You focus on your physical recovery and your life
Professional Associations
Our Recent Blogs
How a Speeding Truck in Colorado is Putting You at Risk
It happened in seconds. You were driving along I-25 through Colorado Springs when you noticed…
How a Colorado Wrongful Death Suit Works
If your loved one died because of someone else’s actions, you may be able to…
Who Pays for the Rental Car After an Accident in Colorado?
After a car accident in Colorado, you’re not just dealing with a damaged vehicle. You…
Want To Learn More About Your Colorado Car Accident Case? Download Our E-Book for Free!
We wanted to find a way to make your car wreck case even easier for you. That is why we wrote this guide that will provide you with the information you need to know about your car accident case.
As car accident law professionals, we have seen too many individuals lose out on their potential maximum compensation. Don’t miss out on the settlement you need!
In this book, you will learn how to:
- Avoid the key mistakes that can derail your claim
- Know what you should and shouldn’t say if an insurance adjuster contacts you
- Understand the dos and don’ts of social media after a crash
- Position yourself to pursue full and fair compensation for your injuries
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions Or Schedule A Free Appointment? Click To Call (719) 520-9909
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions or Schedule A free Appointment? Click to Call (719) 520-9909
Our Locations
Heuser & Heuser, LLP
Colorado Springs Office
Our Newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter, and you’ll get the latest news, delivered right into your inbox each month.