Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

A serious car accident can upend your life in an instant. You may be facing medical bills, lost income, and physical pain, all because of someone else’s negligence. While it may seem clear that the other driver should cover your damages, the reality is that the legal process is often more complicated. Insurance companies do not hand over fair settlements without a fight.

Hiring a car accident lawyer is one of the most effective ways to ensure you receive the compensation you need. Insurance adjusters look for reasons to reduce or deny claims even when fault is clear. They may argue that your injuries are not severe, that you had a pre-existing condition, or even that you were partially responsible for the crash. Without legal representation, you could settle for far less than you deserve.

The risk of serious accidents in Colorado has only grown in recent years. According to most recent statistics, there were 745 traffic fatalities in 2022, the highest number in more than four decades. Over the past ten years, the total number of yearly traffic deaths has increased by 57 percent, reversing a decades-long decline.

Impaired driving has played a significant role in this trend, with DUI-related fatalities rising by 60 percent since 2019. These statistics reflect the increasing dangers on the road, making it more important than ever to have strong legal support if you are involved in a crash.

Should You Trust the Insurance Company to Be Fair?

Insurance companies may appear cooperative, but their primary goal is to protect their profits. Even if the other driver caused the crash, the insurer may try to reduce or deny your claim. They often do this by:

• Shifting blame. Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that your compensation can be reduced if you are found even slightly responsible for the crash. If you are 50 percent or more at fault, you receive nothing.
• Downplaying injuries. Adjusters frequently argue that injuries are exaggerated or pre-existing, hoping to justify a lower payout.
• Delaying the process. The longer the insurer drags out your claim, the more pressure you may feel to accept a quick settlement that does not fully cover your losses.
• Making low offers early. Initial settlement offers are rarely fair. If you accept too soon, you give up the right to seek additional compensation if your condition worsens.

An attorney ensures that these tactics do not work against you. A lawyer collects evidence, builds a strong case, and negotiates aggressively to protect your rights.

Understanding Colorado’s Car Accident Laws

Colorado’s legal system affects how car accident claims are handled. Understanding these laws can help you see why legal representation is so important.

Modified Comparative Negligence

If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation is reduced in proportion to your share of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but are deemed 20 percent responsible, you would receive only $80,000.

You cannot recover anything if you are 50 percent or more at fault. Insurance companies try to use this law to their advantage, making it critical to have legal representation that pushes back against unfair blame.

At-Fault Insurance System

Colorado follows an at-fault system, meaning the person responsible for the accident is also responsible for covering damages. However, insurers rarely pay without scrutiny. A lawyer helps prove liability and ensures you receive the full amount owed.

Statute of Limitations

The Colorado car accident statute of limitations says that you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for injuries or property damage. If you miss this deadline, you lose the right to seek compensation. An attorney ensures that all necessary filings are made timely.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Dan and Dianne were extremely helpful throughout the whole process, as a 22year old who had never dealt with anything in the legal realm, they were super patient and knowledgeable.  I would definitely recommend them.
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Chase Leslie 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I had a pleasant experience with Dan Gerash, Dianne, and the rest of the team at Gerash Steiner Blanton. Dan was attentive, responsive, friendly, clearly fought for me, and was very honest with realistic expectations but also was strong in his conviction to defend me. They walked me through each step of the way and was always there to speak with in case I had a question or a concern. I would recommend him and team, do not hesitate to call them if you need their services!
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Derrick Powers 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
One of the best experiences I could have had during one of the toughest times of my life. In 2019 I had received a DUI and without the help of Dan Gerash, i don't believe i would have gotten through it. From start to finish he was professional, friendly, and the communication was top notch. Any questions i had Dan and his assistant Dianne were there with an answer. If they didn't have the answer right away they always knew who to contact and got back to me in a timely manner. Even after my sentencing, Dan was there to assist me with DMV/license questions. I found myself asking Dan and Dianne more questions then I would ask my Probation Officer. They just were so easy to communicate with. Two years after my sentencing when i had my final court appearance to come off probation, Dan was right there to assist me. He goes the extra mile for his clients. I high recommend him for any legal troubles you may have.
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Kurt Pedersen 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
My attorney was Dan Gerash and he was awesome to work with. His team explained everything to me long the way and I felt at ease during the process. My case was out of state and he fought for me in such a way that I could continue life, from home, uninterrupted through till the end of the case. Highly recommended
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Atria Warren 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Dan was amazing  He’s understanding and caring would definitely recommend.
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Cindy Montez 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Excellent team, knowledgeable and dedicated. I definitely would recommend them. Dan is open, honest and was readily available.
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Vance Kelso 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Dan worked with the DA and my life is back on track again. What was just a stupid mistake could've really been devastating but he worked hard for me and I'm grateful for the new opportunity I have.
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Brian LaRose 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Dan is an excellent attorney. He helped us navigate a complex legal system with compassion and integrity.  I highly recommend him and his team.
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Deanna Hunt 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Dan and Dianne were great. My case was in Summit County, Colorado and I live in Houston, TX. They took care of everything and kept me up to date constantly. I could reach them at anytime and both were always available to take my phone calls. I’m glad they were able to take care of everything without me having to fly out there.
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 M. J. 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Amazing representation from an outstanding law firm. Dan took the time to get to know me on a personal level and was able to help me obtain a fair deal in settling my case. Dianne is his administration representative and keeps everything in proper order and works with you every step of the process. Made a bad situation as bearable as it could be. Very thankful I found Gerash Steiner. Craig Neal
  
 
 Posted on Google  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Craig Neal 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
    
 
 

Why Some Injuries Require Legal Help

Many wonder, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?” Certain injuries have lasting consequences that can affect your health, career, and financial stability. When injuries are severe, the insurance company may fight even harder to limit what they pay. Some of the most common injuries that require legal assistance include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)—these can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and long-term medical needs; 
• Spinal cord damage—-paralysis and chronic pain may require ongoing treatment and rehabilitation;
• Broken bones—-some fractures require surgery, physical therapy, and extensive recovery time; and
• Soft tissue injuries—whiplash and ligament damage can take months to heal and may result in chronic pain.

A settlement should account for future medical expenses, lost earning potential, and the full impact of your injuries. Without legal guidance, there is a significant risk of accepting less than you deserve.

Speak with a Skilled Colorado Car Accident Lawyer Today

You should not have to bear the financial burden of someone else’s negligence. If you were injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, having the right lawyer can make all the difference in securing fair compensation.

The insurance company may not have your best interests at heart, but Gerash, Steinberg, Blanton, P.C. does. Our experienced attorneys fight to maximize your settlement and protect your rights every step of the way. Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Call Gerash, Steinberg, Blanton, P.C. today for a free consultation, or reach out to us online to discuss your case.