If you drive in Colorado, you are subject to the state’s car insurance laws. Colorado uses an “at-fault” insurance system, which means a driver who causes an accident is financially liable for damages incurred by other drivers/passengers.
At Casares Injury Law, we help Colorado drivers understand their rights and navigate complex insurance and injury claims. The sections below cover what every Colorado driver should know about car insurance requirements and injury claims after a car accident.
If you have been involved in a car crash, contact our Castle Rock car accident lawyer for legal support today.
Colorado is an At-Fault Insurance State
Colorado follows a fault-based system for auto accidents. In an at-fault state, the person who causes an accident is responsible for paying for the injuries and property damage they cause, typically through their liability insurance policy. This system contrasts with “no-fault” states, where drivers must first seek compensation through their own insurance policies, regardless of who caused the crash.
If you’re injured in a crash, you have a few options for seeking compensation:
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company
- File a claim with your own insurer if you have applicable coverage (such as MedPay or UM/UIM)
- File a personal injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault party
This system gives injured victims more flexibility when pursuing a claim since it eliminates the requirement of pursuing compensation through one’s own insurance policy. However, it also places the burden of proving fault on the injured party.
Colorado’s Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
To drive in Colorado, you must carry a minimum level of liability insurance. This coverage helps pay for injuries or property damage in an accident.
State law requires driver to carry the following minimum limits:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person
- $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident
- $15,000 for property damage
This is often referred to as 25/50/15 coverage. These limits reflect the legal minimum. In serious accidents, damages can quickly exceed these amounts.
Failure to maintain active liability insurance in Colorado can result in various penalties, including:
- Fines
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Impoundment of your vehicle
- Reinstatement fees and increased insurance costs
Additionally, not having insurance can subject your personal assets to court judgments.
Additional Coverage Options for Greater Protection
Liability insurance is required by law. However, it may not be enough to protect you after a severe crash. Accordingly, many Colorado drivers choose to carry additional forms of coverage for additional financial protection.
Optional coverages include:
- Collision coverage to cover damage to your own vehicle after an accident.
- Comprehensive coverage for losses from events such as theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or fire.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage helps cover your losses if you’re hit by a driver who lacks adequate insurance.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
In Colorado, insurers must offer UM/UIM and MedPay coverage in addition to liability coverage. Although you are not required to purchase them, these coverages can provide important benefits if the at-fault driver has inadequate coverage.
Contact a Castle Rock Car Accident Lawyer for Help Navigating Your Car Crash Claim
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in or around Castle Rock, our experienced car accident lawyer in Castle Rock can help you understand what insurance coverages apply and what damages you can recover in a personal injury claim.
Contact Casares Injury Law today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and legal options. We can help you navigate all aspects of your claim.