What to Do After a Car Accident in Colorado Springs: 7 Legal Musts
Every year, Colorado Springs sees thousands of motor vehicle collisions—on I-25, Academy Boulevard, and even residential streets. While some crashes result in only minor property damage, others can change lives in an instant.
Whether you’re dealing with a serious injury or just trying to make sense of the chaos, taking the right steps after an accident is critical. It makes it a lot easier to preserve vital evidence, protect your rights, and give yourself the best chance at a full recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially.
1. Prioritize Medical Attention—Even If You Feel Fine
After a crash, get checked by a healthcare professional even if you feel okay, as adrenaline can mask pain or symptoms. Prompt medical is vital for your well-being, and such documentation also creates a crucial link between your injuries and the crash.
In Colorado, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may try to argue that delayed care means your injuries weren’t serious—or weren’t caused by the accident. Getting a medical evaluation as soon as possible can prevent this kind of pushback.
2. Call the Police and File an Official Report
One of the most important legal steps after an injury accident is ensuring there’s an official record. In Colorado, reporting accidents (CO law) requires you to notify law enforcement if there’s any injury, death, or significant property damage.
Call 911 from the scene or go to the nearest police station if you’re physically able. Also, make sure to request a copy of the police report once it’s available. This document may be key in proving fault and validating your claims later.
3. Document the Scene: Your Colorado Crash Response Starts Here
Before vehicles are towed or debris is cleared, try to capture as much evidence as you can if it’s safe to do so. Use your phone to take:
- Photos of vehicle damage from multiple angles
- Skid marks, road conditions, and nearby signs or signals
- Injuries, if visible
- The other driver’s license plate and insurance card
Also, collect names and contact details from any witnesses. This is your real-time Colorado crash response, so the better your evidence, the stronger your case will be.
4. Exchange Information Without Admitting Fault
Colorado is an at-fault state, meaning the person responsible for the crash is typically liable for damages. When you exchange information with the other driver, be polite and cooperative but never say anything that could be interpreted as admitting guilt (even a simple “I’m sorry” can be twisted into an admission of liability).
Be sure to get:
- Driver’s name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate
5. Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company
Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, promptly notify your insurer. Keep the report factual—no guesses, exaggerations, or speculation. Provide the documentation you gathered at the scene and inform them that a police report has been filed.
Delaying your report could complicate your claim or violate your policy terms. So if you’re unsure how to proceed, speak with a Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer before giving recorded statements.
6. Create a Post-Accident Journal and Track Expenses
After your initial treatment, continue keeping records of your injuries, symptoms, doctor visits, and how your day-to-day life is affected. A personal injury journal can help.
- Track pain and suffering for future claims.
- Record how injuries impact work, hobbies, or relationships.
- Document prescriptions, physical therapy, or psychological treatment.
Also, save all receipts, from medical bills to transportation costs related to the accident. In Colorado, you may be entitled to compensation for these economic damages along with pain and suffering.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating insurance negotiations and legal liability on your own is risky, especially if you’re dealing with serious injuries or long-term recovery.
An experienced PI lawyer in Colorado can evaluate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you pursue compensation for your losses. A local attorney can also understand the specific requirements of Colorado law, including:
- Comparative negligence rules (which can reduce your recovery if you’re partially at fault)
- Statutes of limitations (generally three years for vehicle accidents in Colorado)
- Local court practices and procedures
Speak with a Colorado Springs Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve suffered serious injuries in a Colorado Springs car crash, contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. Our legal team has been helping people in Colorado Springs for over 30 years and can file a claim or lawsuit against anyone whose negligence contributed to your injuries.
Timothy Bussey has been featured in Super Lawyers Magazine, is recognized as a Fellow by the Litigation Counsel of America, and has received a Gold Client Champion Award from Martindale-Hubbell.
Call (719) 475-2555 to schedule a FREE consultation with our personal injury firm. You won’t owe us anything unless we win you a settlement.
