How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Colorado Springs?

You have three years to file a car accident claim in Colorado Springs, according to Colorado law. This legal deadline, known as the statute of limitations, applies to most motor vehicle accident cases involving injury or property damage. Failing to file within this timeframe can permanently bar you from recovering compensation. 

To protect your rights, it’s best to consult a Colorado Springs car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the crash. Timing is critical in personal injury claims—not only because of the law but also because waiting too long can jeopardize evidence, weaken witness testimony, and limit your legal options.

Filing Deadlines Under Colorado Law

Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-80-101, individuals injured in a car accident generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. This rule applies statewide, including in Colorado Springs.

However, there are exceptions. For example, if the accident involved a government vehicle or municipal employee, special notice requirements may shorten the timeline dramatically. On the other hand, injuries that are not immediately discovered may allow for an extension under the “discovery rule.”

At Matlin Injury Law, we help clients understand how these timelines apply to their unique circumstances and ensure that no important deadline is missed. Every case has different factors that could accelerate or extend the time to file, which is why early legal consultation is essential.

Why Acting Quickly Matters Even With Three Years

While three years may sound like plenty of time, waiting can seriously harm your case. The legal process involves more than just filing paperwork. It requires investigation, documentation, and communication with insurers, all of which takes time.

By contacting Matlin Injury Law early, you give us the chance to:

• Preserve key evidence: This includes crash scene photos, vehicle data, surveillance footage, and road conditions.
  
• Interview witnesses: Their memories are clearest shortly after the accident.
  
• Manage insurance communication: We handle negotiations and protect you from tactics that could harm your case.
  
• Coordinate medical care: We help ensure you get proper treatment and document your injuries.
  
• Build a strong claim: The sooner we begin, the better we can support your case with expert testimony and detailed documentation.

Early legal involvement can also provide peace of mind. Our team manages all aspects of your case so you can focus on recovering your health and rebuilding your life.

What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?

If you try to file a car accident claim in Colorado Springs after the statute of limitations has expired, the court will almost certainly dismiss your case. That means:

• You lose your right to seek compensation, even if the other driver was clearly at fault.
  
• Insurance companies are no longer required to negotiate or settle. They know the courts won’t enforce your claim.
  
• You may be left covering medical bills and other expenses out of pocket.

Unfortunately, we have seen too many injury victims who waited too long to reach out. Don’t make the same mistake—contact us as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Exceptions That May Apply to Your Case

There are limited situations where the deadline to file might be shorter or longer than three years. Some of the most common exceptions include:

• Claims against government entities: You may need to file a formal notice of claim within 180 days of the accident.
  
• Wrongful death cases: These must generally be filed within two years from the date of death, not the accident. A Colorado Springs wrongful death lawyer can help you through this process.
  
• Delayed injury discovery: If you didn’t realize you were injured until later, the statute may begin on the date the injury was discovered.
  
• Minor victims: If the injured person is under 18, the deadline may be extended until after they turn 18.

Our legal team carefully reviews each case to determine whether any special circumstances may apply. We never assume the standard deadline applies without verifying all the facts of your car accident claim in Colorado Springs.

How We Support Clients in Colorado Springs

At Matlin Injury Law, we act as your advocates from the very first call. Every accident victim deserves high-quality legal care, and we’ve built our firm around meeting that need. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

• Direct access to your attorney: We don’t push clients off to paralegals or call centers.
• Real-time case updates: Our custom-built app allows you to track your case and receive daily updates.
  
• Tailored legal strategies: We build each case around your injuries, recovery needs, and financial goals.
  
• No fees unless we win: Our contingency-based approach ensures legal help is accessible to everyone.
  
• Medical and financial support: We connect you with treatment providers and third parties who can offer financial relief during your case.

We know how overwhelming the aftermath of a crash can be. That’s why we’re committed to making the legal process clear, supportive, and effective from day one.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Colorado Springs Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a crash, don’t let the clock run out on your right to recover. At Matlin Injury Law, our team brings over 50 years of combined experience and has recovered more than $25 million for injury victims across Colorado, including Colorado Springs.

We’re here to help you understand your legal timeline, gather the evidence you need, and fight for the compensation you need. Call today or contact us online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you take the next step toward recovery with confidence.