Information You Should Ask Witnesses
2022 was one of the worst years on record for traffic accidents in Colorado. In total, 745 roadway deaths were registered, the highest total since 1981. These circumstances demand that accident victims and their families seek fair compensation for injuries sustained in order to get their lives back on track.
At Landry Law, P.C., we’re here to help you move forward. With an assertive, yet compassionate, approach, we strive to protect our clients’ right to fair compensation. Part of this process involves working with anyone who witnessed your accident. You need to know what to do and what to ask in these situations.
We proudly serve the communities of Lone Tree and Trinidad, Colorado, with skilled legal guidance. We also help folks in Denver, Castles Pines, Castle Rock, and Douglas County get the legal representation they deserve. Set up a consultation with our car accident attorney today.
Car Accident Claims in Colorado
When filing a car accident claim, it is important to note that Colorado is a fault state. This means that in a car accident, the driver determined to be at fault is responsible for paying for the damages and injuries that resulted from the accident. Generally speaking, the at-fault driver's insurance company will cover other people's losses resulting from the accident, up to the driver's liability coverage limits.
Please note that the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date for car accidents. Consult with a car accident or personal injury attorney about this rule to ensure the deadline has not passed. If the deadline has passed, the claim may be dismissed immediately.
Gathering Information After a Car Accident
Gathering information after a car accident in Colorado is important for several reasons:
For insurance purposes, gathering information about the other driver, vehicle, and insurance company is crucial.
For legal purposes, gathering all relevant information and documentation is critical for a successful personal injury lawsuit.
Gathering all related medical information, such as bills, reports, diagnoses, and prescriptions, is pivotal to establishing the nature and extent of personal injuries.
Keep in mind that gathering information after a car accident can help protect victims’ legal rights, ensure that they receive the proper medical treatment, and facilitate the insurance claims process.
Questions to Ask Accident Witnesses
Accident witnesses are an important part of filing a car accident claim. Knowing what to ask car accident witnesses is critical. The following list of questions for car accident witnesses can help accident victims when filing their claim:
“What time did you arrive at the accident scene?”
“Where were you coming from, and where were you heading when the accident happened?”
“From your perspective, what were the weather and road conditions like?”
“In your own words, can you describe in detail what you saw?”
“Did you have a clear view of the accident? How far away were you?”
“Do you know of any other witnesses who may have more information?”
“Did you happen to take photographs or video of the accident or scene?”
“Did you speak to any of the other parties involved in the accident?”
“Did you speak with the police or provide them with your contact information?”
“Would you be willing to testify or provide an official statement?”
These questions can help accident victims throughout the car accident claims process. Above all, getting car accident witnesses on record is a crucial part of a successful car accident claim.
Additional Information to Gather from Witnesses
Witnesses can mean the difference between a successful and unsuccessful outcome. That is why the following information is vital to get from witnesses:
Ask accident witnesses if they possess any relevant expertise that might be useful during the claims or lawsuit process. For instance, the witness may be a healthcare professional who might be able to reasonably assess the injuries at the scene. Perhaps the witness has some training that could allow them to identify that the at-fault party was under the influence reasonably.
Ask accident witnesses if they know anyone involved in the accident. Knowing the party or parties involved can help serve as a character reference. For example, the witness may be able to provide details on the at-fault party’s driving record.
Be sure to get the witness's contact information, including their name, phone number, and email address. While the witness may not be willing to testify in court, they may be willing to provide a written or recorded statement.
A good rule of thumb is to get a car accident or personal injury attorney to speak with the witness. An experienced attorney can help witnesses feel more comfortable by explaining their rights.
Let Us Guide You Through the Claims Process
After any kind of accident, you may be overwhelmed. At Landry Law, P.C., we’re ready to help our clients navigate the complexities of the personal injury claims process. You already have so much on your plate, so let us advocate for you every step of the way. Set up a consultation with our attorney when you’re ready to get started.