Aurora Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

Getting Fair Compensation for Victims of Car Accidents

Car accidents can have devastating consequences, especially when caused by drunk drivers. Serious injuries or even fatalities may occur. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Aurora, it’s crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced car accident attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system. Our Aurora car accident lawyers are dedicated to seeking justice for accident victims and holding negligent parties accountable. Contact Genco Injury Attorneys today at 720-802-9120 or 720-706-7673 for a free consultation to discuss your car accident case.

What Are the Steps to Filing a Car Accident Claim?

Filing a car accident claim can be a complex process, but an experienced Aurora car accident attorney can guide you through each step. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

• Seek Medical Attention: Your health is your top priority. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Write down what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind.
• Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company about the accident. Be honest, but avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
• Consult with a Lawyer: Before accepting any settlement offers, consult with an experienced Aurora car accident lawyer. They can review the offer and advise whether it’s in your best interest.
• Investigation: Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation—gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with other professionals if necessary.
• Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, aiming to secure a fair settlement.
• Litigation: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer may recommend taking the case to court.

What Compensation Can I Expect After a Car Accident?

The compensation you can expect after a car accident will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your property damage, and the circumstances of the accident.

In general, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills: This includes both current and future medical costs related to your injuries.
• Lost income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for your lost income.
• Property damage: This covers the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other damaged property.
• Pain and suffering: This is compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Punitive damages: In cases where the driver’s behavior was particularly egregious, such as drunk driving, the court may award punitive damages to punish the driver and deter similar behavior in the future.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Colorado?

In Colorado, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions to this rule, so consult with an experienced Aurora car accident lawyer as soon as possible. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

What If the Drunk Driver Flees the Scene?

Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are not uncommon, especially when alcohol is involved. If the drunk driver flees the scene, stay calm and remember as many details as possible. This includes the make and model of the car, the license plate number, and the direction the driver fled.

In Colorado, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident is a severe crime, especially if injuries are involved. An experienced Aurora car accident attorney can work with law enforcement to locate the driver. They can also help you file an insurance claim under your uninsured motorist coverage.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Colorado follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that if you were partially at fault for the accident, you could be considered partially responsible, and your financial compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

However, if you were more than 50% at fault, you would not be able to recover any damages. This is why it’s crucial to have an experienced Aurora car accident lawyer on your legal team. They can help you build a strong car accident case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Remember, even if you think you were partially at fault, never admit fault at the accident scene. There may be factors you’re not aware of, such as the other driver’s intoxication level, that could shift the blame.

Can I Sue the Establishment That Served the Drunk Driver?

In some cases, you may be able to hold the establishment that served the drunk driver responsible for your injuries. This is known as a “dram shop” claim. Colorado law states that a business can be held liable if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor, and that person then caused an accident.

Proving a dram shop claim can be complex and requires thorough investigation. An experienced Aurora car accident attorney can help gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case.

What If the Drunk Driver Was Uninsured?

If the drunk driver was uninsured, you may still have options for recovery. You can file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver does not have insurance.

However, dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when you’re recovering from an accident. An experienced Aurora car accident lawyer can handle the negotiations on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and allowing you to focus on your health.

What If the Drunk Driver Was Operating a Commercial Vehicle?

If the drunk driver was operating a commercial vehicle at the time of the accident, it could complicate your case. Commercial drivers are held to higher standards than regular drivers, and their employers may also bear some responsibility for the accident.

Under Colorado law, employers can be held liable for their employees’ actions while on the job. If the employer knew or should have known about the driver’s intoxication, they could be held accountable. An experienced Aurora car accident lawyer can investigate these factors and help you pursue all possible avenues for compensation.

What If I Was a Passenger in the Drunk Driver’s Vehicle?

If you were a passenger in the drunk driver’s vehicle, you still have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. In Colorado, passengers are generally considered innocent parties in car accidents.

Your claim would likely be against the driver’s insurance policy. However, if the driver was uninsured or underinsured, you might need to file a claim with your own insurance company. An experienced Aurora car accident lawyer can guide you through this process and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

How Can an Aurora Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Help Me?

An experienced Aurora drunk driving accident lawyer can be your advocate during this challenging time. They can help you navigate the complex legal system, ensuring your rights are protected. They can also help you understand the specifics of Colorado law, which can be confusing for those unfamiliar with legal jargon.

For instance, Colorado operates under a “tort” system for car accidents. This means that the person found at fault for the accident is responsible for any damages. If the other driver was drunk, they could be held liable for your injuries and property damage.

Your lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and if necessary, represent you in court. They can also help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you have been involved in a car accident, call us at 720-802-9120 or 720-706-7673 to protect your rights. An Aurora car accident lawyer from our firm can provide the legal support you need during this difficult time. We can help you understand your options, build a strong case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.