• Injured? Contact Us Injured? Contact Us
  • E-mail
View Our Practice Areas

uninsured/underinsured motorists accidents Archives

The harsh consequences of not having auto insurance in CO

As most Coloradans know, it is unlawful to drive without having motor vehicle insurance. However, many drivers make the choice to risk driving without insurance for several reasons. They may believe insurance is too expensive or that they are safe drivers, and nothing will happen. However, being a safe driver does not prevent accidents, and it can be more costly to get caught without insurance.

More than 13 percent of Colorado drivers are uninsured

Driving in Colorado comes with a certain degree of risk, thanks to steep mountain roadways, snowstorms and other common hazards, but one of the riskiest aspects of driving in Colorado involves its high percentage of uninsured drivers. At the Law Offices of Cliff Enten, we understand that not everyone follows state laws regarding auto insurance requirements, and we have assisted many people who suffered injury in accidents with uninsured drivers seek appropriate recourse.

Why does car insurance matter?

Most people who drive in Colorado know that carrying some level of automobile insurance is required by law. Unfortunately, however, even while this is the law many people still make the choice to drive without having this protection. It is important to understand how car insurance protects not just anyone you might hit but how it also protects you. Additionally, if you are hit by a driver who does not have insurance, you will want to know what type of rights you have.

Correlation between uninsured drivers and increased risk

Every driver is subject to risk of property damage or personal injury on the road. Most drivers, however, can secure a degree of protection from the economic effects of damage by obtaining adequate insurance coverage. Uninsured and underinsured motorist polices cover individuals whose injuries are caused by a driver with no insurance or whose insurance is insufficient to cover damages. While UIM insurance is not required by Colorado law, it may be especially important for Coloradans considering the high number of uninsured drivers on the road.

Colorado's uninsured motorist problem

If you are like most people in Colorado, you pay for and carry current insurance on any motor vehicle that you own or lease. You may do this because you know it is legally required and because you know it is the smart and right thing to do. Auto insurance protects you, anyone in your vehicles and any other person who may ever be involved in an accident with you. Sadly, not everyone in Colorado is quite as responsible.

Understanding uninsured and underinsured insurance

Colorado residents who want to make sure that they are adequately protected in the event of an accident should take the time to have an understanding of all types of automotive insurance available to them. This includes not just standard liability, collision or comprehensive coverages but also uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage. While the names of these two options are similar, they are distinctly different.

What auto insurance is required in Colorado?

If you are like many Colorado residents, you may often wonder just what types and how much automobile insurance you really need. To some extent, your insurance requirements can be influenced by your personal financial situation and your ability to pay for damages or medical costs if an accident happens. There are also laws that mandate certain levels of coverage that you must carry at a minimum. Just what are these requirements?

How does Colorado track uninsured motorists?

As in every other state, drivers and vehicle owners in Colorado are required to purchase and carry active automobile insurance when driving. The state outlines basic minimum levels of insurance that every driver must meet. Individuals are able to select insurance coverage beyond these minimums at their discretion. The reason for such a law is to protect you from unnecessary financial loss in the event of an automobile accident.

Uninsured and underinsured auto insurance in Colorado

Even the most minor automobile accident can put a wrinkle in a Colorado driver’s day. Beyond just the hassle at the scene and time of a crash, challenges can grow quickly when it is discovered that the at-fault driver does not have insurance. Even if the driver responsible for the wreck is insured, if the level of coverage carried is not sufficient to take care of any damages or costs, more problems will surface. What can a person do in these circumstances?

  • American Bar Association
  • American Association for Justice
  • CTLA  Colorado | Trial Lawyers Association
  • Lead Counsel | LC | Rated | Lead Counsel Rated Attorney
  • Featured on The Law | Personal Injury

Call us at 303-625-7639 to schedule a free initial consultation.

Main Office
50 S. Steele St.
Suite 875
Denver, CO 80209

Map & Directions

By Appointment Only
121 S. Tejon St.
Suite 1107
Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Map & Directions

By Appointment Only
2 N. Cascade Ave.
Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Map & Directions

By Appointment Only
155 E. Boardwalk Dr.
Suite 400
Fort Collins, CO 80525

Map & Directions

By Appointment Only
1155 Kelly Johnson Blvd.
Suite 111
Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Map & Directions