Thornton Car Accident Lawyers

Common Types of Car Accidents 

SH 44 runs through southern Thornton, but otherwise, I-76, SH 7, and E-470 surround it. The City of Thornton has performed several traffic studies in the last few years, pinpointing problem areas. One study revealed that at least one crash occurred along mainline I-25 on 296 of the 365 days in a recent year.

These crashes typically occur in the morning or during "peak" hours. Congestion and crashes are a vicious cycle, and many of these accidents may have been secondary accidents caused by the initial collision. 

Here are the types of accidents the Tenge Law Firm, LLC, often sees:

• Rear-End Collisions: These are the most common accidents in Thornton, especially for commuters getting onto SH 7, accounting for 52% of these crashes. Rear-ending can be caused by driver distraction, aggression, or poor road design at an intersection or interchange. The resulting impact can lead to serious injuries such as whiplash or spinal injuries, necessitating medical attention and, possibly, long-term rehabilitation.
• Sideswipes: There are two ways you can be sideswiped: by a vehicle traveling in the same direction or a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. Both are dangerous because they can spin a vehicle out of control, into other vehicles or fixed objects. Sideswipes often happen during lane changes or merges when drivers fail to check blind spots, highlighting the need for defensive driving practices.
• Broadsides: Known colloquially as "T-bone collisions," one of these dangerous crashes resulted in a fatality at the intersection at Holly Street in recent years. Broadsides account for 15% of collisions at SH 7 interchanges. These accidents are particularly hazardous, often leading to significant injuries due to the limited protection on vehicle sides, which may require immediate and comprehensive medical evaluation.
• Hit-and-Runs: Hit-and-run accidents are common in the Denver area, with an estimated 570 per month in the last year or so. The Patch reported one recent case in Thornton, where a child in a wheelchair was struck by a driver in a black pickup who sped off. Such incidents underscore the importance of uninsured motorist coverage and the necessity for quick action in reporting and pursuing these cases with law enforcement and legal assistance.

Who can you sue in a hit-and-run? The at-fault driver, certainly, if the police catch him or her. But if not, you need to look to your own insurance policies, especially your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Our law firm has deep experience in finding applicable policies and negotiating with the insurance company to provide clients with payment. 

Dealing with Insurance Companies after a Car Accident

After a car accident in Thornton, one of the immediate challenges is dealing with insurance companies. Insurers may approach you with offers that seem tempting in the short term but often fall short of covering all the damages and future financial burdens you may face due to injuries. It is crucial to approach these negotiations with caution, as initial offers are often an attempt to minimize the payout.

It's essential to remember that insurance companies are businesses aiming to protect their bottom line, often settling swiftly to avoid costly payouts. However, accepting an early settlement can severely limit your ability to secure sufficient funds to cover medical treatments, loss of income, or long-term rehabilitation needs. Legal advice from a car accident attorney, Thornton, ensures you fully understand your rights and potential entitlements under Colorado law.

FAQs about Car Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately Following a Car Accident?

Following a car accident, ensure everyone involved is safe and call emergency services. Obtaining a medical evaluation is vital, even if injuries aren't immediately apparent. Gather evidence, such as scene photographs and contact information for any witnesses. Report the incident to your insurance, but avoid giving recorded statements until you consult a lawyer to protect your interests better.

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

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally three years from the accident date. However, certain factors might shorten this timeline, particularly in government vehicle cases. Acting swiftly not only preserves your right to claim but also increases the chances of securing vital evidence to support your claims in Thornton.

Can I Still Claim If I Was Partially At Fault?

Colorado’s comparative negligence laws allow you to file a claim even if you were partially at fault. Your percentage of fault may reduce your compensation, a determination typically made during legal proceedings. Expert legal counsel can help present your case effectively to ensure fair apportioning of liability and maximize your potential compensation when you consult an auto accident attorney.