Legal Question in Personal Injury in Colorado

my wife was injured in an accident while on the way home from work this morning. a company truck from a local car dealership pulled out in front of her, totalling my fathers truck. she was taken to an ER by ambulance, where she recieved x-rays on her right leg. the x-rays cam back showing no obvious bone damage, but the doctors said the could not be sure due to swelling, aswell as b eing unsure of tissue or other damage. they sent her home with a full leg brace, a doctors not for 5 days off of work until she can be seen by an orthopedist, and perscriptions for vicadin and crutches. my question is wether to jsut go through an insurance company or seek legal council.


Asked on 9/16/11, 9:04 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Linda Chalat Chalat Hatten Koupal & Banker P.C.

Your question will be best answered after you determine the extent of your wife's injuries. If she has no serious injury from the accident, then she may be better off seeking a settlement on her own for the damages suffered - the value of the vehicle, her medical expenses, her loss income and compensation for the pain and suffering. But if she has significant soft tissue injury and/or pain that is not resolved in a few days then she should consult with a personal injury lawyer. The insurance company will never pay the true value of a claim when the injured party is not represented by an attorney. In Colorado, there is a three year statute of limitations for auto accident claims - this means that your wife must file her lawsuit within three years of the accident or lose the right to do so. Occasionally, insurance companies will string along an injured person with promises of settlement, but drag it out until after the statute of limitations deadline. Then there is no threat of a claim and thus no settlement. I hope your wife enjoys a full and speedy recovery, but if not talk to a personal injury lawyer.

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Answered on 9/19/11, 8:45 am


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