How a case works
An injury claim has a few clear stages. Knowing what comes next makes it a lot less stressful.
What are the steps in a personal injury case?
Most cases move through six steps: consultation, investigation, treatment, demand and negotiation, a lawsuit if needed, and resolution. Every case is different, so the order and timing can change.
Free consultation
You tell us what happened. We listen, answer your questions and explain your options in plain English. Call or use the form, any time of day. If you cannot travel, we can meet at your home or the hospital.
It costs nothing and there is no obligation. If you hire us, we work on contingency: no attorney fee unless we win*.
Investigation
We start collecting what the case needs. Depending on how you were hurt, that can include:
- Police or incident reports
- Photos and video of the scene and your injuries
- Witness names and statements
- Insurance information for everyone involved
We also take over the calls with insurance adjusters, so you do not have to give them a recorded statement.
Treatment and building your claim
Your health comes first. Keep going to your appointments and follow your doctors’ advice. We gather your medical records and bills and track your lost income and other losses.
It usually makes sense to wait until the full extent of your injuries is known before settling, because a settlement closes the claim for good.
Demand and negotiation
When we have the facts, we send the insurance company a demand: a written request that lays out what happened and what the claim is worth. Negotiation follows.
The insurer may counter with a lower number. We tell you what we think of each offer. The decision to accept or reject it is always yours.
A lawsuit, if one is needed
If the other side will not make a fair offer, we can file a lawsuit. Filing starts a formal process: both sides exchange information, may attend mediation, and, if the case does not settle, present it to a judge or jury. Many cases resolve without a trial.
Deadlines matter. In Colorado, In Colorado you generally have 3 years from the date of a car, truck or motorcycle crash to file an injury lawsuit. Most other injury claims, like slip and falls, premises cases and dog bites, must be filed within 2 years. If a city, county, state agency or public employee caused the injury, written notice of the claim must be filed within 182 days of discovering the injury. Miss it and the claim can be lost.
That is why it helps to call early, even if you are not sure you want to take action. Rules in other states are different.
Resolution
The case ends with a settlement or a court decision. Before you receive your share, the money goes toward the agreed attorney fee, any case costs, and medical bills or liens that must be repaid. You receive the rest.
What can I do to protect my claim right now?
Get medical care, keep records, and talk to a lawyer before you talk to the other side’s insurer.
- See a doctor, even if you feel okay.
- Report the incident to the police, your employer or the property owner.
- Take photos and write down witness names.
- Keep every bill, receipt and appointment record.
- Do not post about the accident on social media.
- Do not discuss fault with the other side’s insurer.
Ready for step one?
The first step is a free conversation. Open 24/7.
Submitting the contact form or calling does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send confidential or time-sensitive information until an attorney-client relationship has been established in writing. Free case reviews are provided without obligation.
No fee
unless we win.*
Only pay if we win. Contact us 24/7. How fees work