What Are The Common Causes Of Catastrophic Car Accidents?

In this guide, we’ll explore common causes of car accidents, discuss your legal options, and provide valuable insights on finding the best car accident lawyer in Denver to help you navigate the complex world of accident claims and recovery. Car accidents can happen in an instant, leaving you confused, injured, and unsure of where to turn. The aftermath of a collision is stressful, mainly when it results in significant property damage or severe physical harm. Knowing your legal rights and the steps to take after a car accident is crucial for protecting yourself and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Our team of personal injury attorneys is resourceful, experienced, and knowledgeable regarding your rights. To learn more about how we can help you, call Mintz Law Firm today at 303.732.8919.

What Are the Common Causes of Catastrophic Car Accidents?

Negligent and reckless driving behaviors are often at the root of devastating car crashes. Understanding the top causes of car accidents can help raise awareness and prevent future collisions. Here are some of the most common reasons car accidents occur: 

• Distracted Driving: This includes any activity that diverts a person’s attention from the road, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the stereo. Did you know that sending a text message takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds? At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed! 

• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs impairs a person’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it difficult to operate a vehicle safely. In 2024, it is estimated that alcohol-impaired driving cost the United States $44 billion in economic costs and result in countless tragic losses. 

• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or react to unexpected obstacles or changes in traffic patterns. 

• Aggressive Driving: This encompasses a range of unsafe behaviors, including tailgating, frequent lane changes, and failure to yield the right of way. Aggressive drivers often exhibit a combination of actions that place other road users at risk. 

• Fatigued Driving: Drowsy driving can impair judgment, reaction time, and vision, increasing the crash risk. Commercial drivers and those who work long hours are particularly at risk. 

• Adverse Weather Conditions: Heavy rain, snow, or fog can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the likelihood of accidents. 

• Vehicle Defects: Malfunctioning vehicle parts, such as brakes, tires, or steering components, can lead to accidents, especially if they fail unexpectedly. 

Tip: Stay alert and follow traffic rules to reduce the risk of an accident. If you encounter a negligent driver, maintain a safe distance and report their license plate number to the local authorities if their behavior endangers others. 

Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident 

In the aftermath of a car accident, knowing your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself is crucial. Here’s an overview of the legal principles that come into play: 

• Right to Compensation: If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you can seek compensation for your medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

• Statute of Limitations: There is a time limit for filing a car accident claim or lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. Colorado’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims resulting from car accidents is typically three years from the accident date. 

• Duty of Care: All drivers owe a duty of care to others on the road, meaning they must drive responsibly and follow traffic laws. If a driver breaches this duty of care and causes an accident, they can be held legally responsible for the resulting damages. 

• Negligence: Negligence is a legal concept that refers to a failure to exercise a reasonable level of care, resulting in harm to another person. To seek compensation, you must prove that the other driver acted negligently and that their negligence caused your injuries. 

• Comparative Negligence: Colorado follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. Your award may be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. 

Tip: After an accident, it’s essential to gather evidence, document the scene, and seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. This can strengthen your claim and ensure a proper record of the incident. 

How to Find the Best Car Accident Lawyer Near Me 

When seeking legal representation after a car accident, choosing a lawyer with the necessary skill set and a proven track record of success is crucial. Here are some key considerations: 

• Specialization: Look for a lawyer who specializes in car accident cases and deeply understands the relevant laws and procedures. 

• Experience: Inquire about the lawyer’s experience handling cases similar to yours and their success rate in securing fair compensation for their clients. 

• Reputation: Research the lawyer’s reputation and read reviews from past clients to gauge their satisfaction with the legal services provided. 

• Resources: Ensure the lawyer has the necessary resources to investigate your case thoroughly and access expert witnesses. 

• Communication: Choose a lawyer who communicates effectively, keeps you informed throughout the process, and is responsive to your questions and concerns. 

Tip: Schedule consultations with several car accident lawyers in your area to find the best fit. Most personal injury lawyers offer free initial consultations so you can discuss your case at no cost and make an informed decision. 

Why Choose Mintz Law Firm for Your Car Accident Claim? 

At Mintz Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping individuals in Denver and throughout Colorado navigate the legal complexities following a car accident. Here’s how we can assist: 

• Personalized Attention: We understand that each case is unique, and we take the time to get to know our clients and understand their specific needs and concerns. 

• Aggressive Representation: Our experienced car accident lawyers will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. 

• No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t owe us any legal fees unless we successfully recover your compensation. 

• Thorough Investigation: Our team will conduct a comprehensive investigation of your accident, including reviewing police reports, gathering evidence, and consulting with professionals to build a strong case on your behalf. 

• Support Throughout the Process: We will guide you through the entire claims process, handling all communications with insurance companies and ensuring your rights are protected at every step. 

Tip: Don’t delay seeking legal assistance. The sooner you involve a car accident lawyer, the sooner they can build your case and preserve crucial evidence. 

Taking Legal Action: What to Expect 

Initiating legal action after a car accident can seem daunting, but with the right lawyer, you can feel confident and informed throughout the process. Here’s an overview: 

• Initial Consultation: During your free initial consultation, a car accident lawyer will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and answer any questions. 

• Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, reviewing police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other relevant evidence to build a strong case. 

• Insurance Claims Process: Your lawyer will handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance companies involved, ensuring your rights are protected and advocating for a fair settlement. 

• Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may advise filing a lawsuit. They will guide you through the litigation process, including discovery, pretrial motions, and, if necessary, trial. 

• Resolution: Most car accident cases are resolved through settlement, either during the insurance claims process or after filing a lawsuit. However, a judge or jury will decide on your case’s compensation if your case goes to trial. 

Tip: Be honest and transparent with your personal injury lawyer. Providing them with all the details of your case, even those that may seem insignificant, can help them build a stronger argument on your behalf. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. I was partially at fault for the accident. Can I still file a claim?  

Yes. Colorado follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault. The compensation you receive may be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your total compensation award may be reduced by up to 20%.  

2. How soon after the accident should I contact a car accident lawyer?  

It is advisable to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. Crucial evidence may disappear over time, and there are time limits for filing a claim. Acting quickly can help preserve your rights and increase your chances of a successful outcome.  

3. What costs are associated with hiring a car accident lawyer?  

Many personal injury lawyers, including Mintz Law Firm, work on a contingency fee basis. You only owe legal fees if your lawyer successfully recovers your compensation. The contingency fee is typically a final settlement or court award percentage.  

4. What types of compensation can I receive in a car accident claim?  

You may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages in a car accident claim. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other out-of-pocket costs. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and more.  

5. How long will it take to resolve my car accident case?  

The timeline for resolving a car accident case can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, and whether it can be settled out of court or goes to trial. Simple cases may be resolved within a few months, while more complex cases can take a year or longer. Your lawyer will be able to give you a more specific timeline based on the unique circumstances of your case.  

Work with a Car Accident Lawyer

Feel free to contact us at Mintz Law Firm if you have any further questions or concerns regarding car accidents and your legal rights. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and get your deserved compensation.

Mintz Law Firm has navigated multiple personal injury claims throughout the years and helped our clients win their settlements. Call our team of experienced and results-driven personal injury lawyers today at 303.732.8919 for your free consultation.