Cripple Creek, CO, Personal Injury Lawyer

How Is Negligence Determined in a Personal Injury Case?

Negligence is the legal principle that underpins most personal injury claims—it means someone failed to act with the reasonable care expected of them, and that failure caused someone else harm.

In Colorado personal injury cases, proving negligence typically involves demonstrating four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. But how does that play out in real-life scenarios?

• Motor vehicle accidents. If a driver in Cripple Creek was texting behind the wheel and rear-ended your car, they likely breached their duty of care, causing your injuries and vehicle damage.
• Slip-and-fall incidents. A casino or hotel owner who ignores broken steps or slippery walkways may be held responsible if you fall and sustain injuries due to their negligence.
• Dog bites and animal attacks. Pet owners in Colorado generally have a duty to control their animals. If a dog owner fails to leash an aggressive pet, and you’re bitten, they could be liable for the harm you suffer.

Each of these examples hinges on whether the responsible party acted reasonably. If you believe another person’s carelessness caused your injury, a Cripple Creek personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence and build a strong case for compensation.

How Much Is Your Personal Injury Case Worth?

Determining how much your personal injury case is worth isn’t an exact science. Each claim is unique, and compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the length of your recovery, and how your life has been affected.

When you work with our firm, we can help calculate both economic (financial) and non-economic (personal) damages, ensuring no loss goes overlooked.

Economic Damages

• Medical bills. Surgeries, hospital stays, and follow-up care.
• Medical devices. Costs for assistive tools like wheelchairs or prosthetics.
• Lost wages. Income lost due to missed work during treatment.
• Reduced earning potential. If your injuries limit future job opportunities.
• Home alterations. Wheelchair ramps, stair lifts, and other necessary modifications.
• Long-term care. Ongoing rehabilitation or nursing assistance.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering. Physical discomfort and emotional turmoil.
• Reduced quality of life. Ongoing limitations on your daily activities and enjoyment.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

No matter how you were injured, The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers handle a broad range of injury cases. Each practice area involves unique challenges—and we’re ready to meet them head-on:

• Car accidents. From fender benders to catastrophic collisions, we hold negligent drivers accountable.
• Truck accidents. Large commercial vehicles can cause devastating injuries, requiring in-depth investigation.
• Dog attacks. Colorado’s laws often hold dog owners liable for bites and other injuries.
• Motorcycle accidents. Riders face increased risks; we strive to protect their rights.
• Slip-and-fall. Property owners have a duty to keep premises safe.
• Bicycle accidents. We represent cyclists seriously injured by careless drivers.
• Wrongful death. We stand by families seeking justice after a tragic loss.
• Brain injuries. Concussions or traumatic brain injuries can impact every aspect of your life.
• Premises liability. Unsafe conditions, such as poorly lit stairways or slippery floors, often lead to serious accidents.
• Product liability. Defective or dangerous products can cause harm, and manufacturers may be responsible.

Common Types of Injuries in Personal Injury Claims

Below are common examples our Cripple Creek personal injury attorneys see—and each can mean extensive medical treatment, long recovery times, and a significant financial burden:

• Traumatic brain injuries include concussions, skull fractures, and long-term neurological damage.
• Severe burns are painful injuries that may require skin grafts and ongoing care.
• Spinal cord injuries and back injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, or mobility issues.
• Nerve damage and paralysis are life-altering injuries that affect muscle control and sensation.
• Broken bones may require surgery, physical therapy, and weeks or months of recovery.
• Internal injuries are hidden damage to organs that demand immediate medical attention.
• Soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
• Whiplash is common in vehicle accidents and can lead to chronic neck pain.
• Crush injuries result from heavy impact, sometimes causing permanent disability.
• Amputation, also known as limb loss, has profound physical and emotional consequences.

Wrongful Death: Pursuing Justice After a Tragic Loss

When a loved one dies due to someone else’s negligence, Colorado law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death claim. Generally, the deceased’s spouse or children have the ability, but specific rules vary depending on timing and circumstances.

Through this legal process, you may seek damages for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the emotional toll of your loved one’s death. An experienced Cripple Creek attorney can guide you. We’re here to make sure you understand your rights and options for holding the responsible party accountable.

How One of Our Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help

When you’ve been injured, a Cripple Creek personal injury lawyer can be your strongest ally. From the moment you hire a lawyer, you gain a dedicated advocate who focuses on protecting your rights and helping you navigate the legal system.

An experienced personal injury attorney in Cripple Creek can investigate your accident, gather evidence, and consult with specialists to build a persuasive case. They’ll also work to identify all liable parties—whether that’s a negligent driver, property owner, or manufacturer—and ensure you understand your legal options.

Beyond investigation, your lawyer will also handle communication with insurance companies. Adjusters often try to minimize or deny claims; a qualified lawyer can protect you from common insurance tactics and negotiate for a fair settlement.

If the insurance company refuses to cooperate, your attorney can take your case to trial and present a compelling argument before a judge and jury. Through every step of the process, you’ll have professional guidance and consistent support so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Tips for Protecting Your Personal Injury Claim

After an accident in Cripple Creek, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. However, taking the right steps can safeguard your personal injury claim and help your Cripple Creek personal injury lawyer secure the compensation you deserve.

Here are a few simple tips:

• Document the scene. If you’re unable to take photos or videos yourself, ask a friend or family member to photograph the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle or property damage.
• Follow medical advice. Attending all appointments and following your healthcare provider’s recommendations not only speeds your recovery but also provides valuable documentation of your injuries.
• Limit social media activity. Posting about your accident or injuries can be used against you by insurance adjusters. It’s best to stay off social media until your claim is resolved.
• Avoid direct contact with insurance companies. Let your attorney handle all communications. Insurers may twist your words to reduce or deny your claim.
• Consult a lawyer in Cripple Creek. The sooner you speak with a personal injury lawyer, the better your chances of preserving critical evidence and protecting your rights.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Personal Injury Case in Colorado?

In Colorado, the law sets a deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Generally, you have two years from the date of the injury to take legal action.

Typically, missing these deadlines means forfeiting your right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong your case might have been.

This ticking clock is one of the biggest reasons to speak with a Cripple Creek, CO, personal injury law firm as soon as possible. By acting quickly, you help ensure that evidence isn’t lost and witness memories remain fresh. Starting the legal process early also gives your attorney time to conduct a thorough investigation, which can strengthen your claim.

If you suspect someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, call us at (719) 475-2555 before the statute of limitations runs out.

Our Personal Injury Process

1. Free Consultation

The first step is to discuss your situation with a Cripple Creek personal injury lawyer. During this initial meeting, we’ll review the basics of your accident, address your most pressing questions, and determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim.

2. Investigation Stage

Once we’ve agreed to work together, we launch a thorough investigation. This may include collecting medical records, interviewing witnesses, and consulting specialists. Our goal is to gather solid evidence that supports your position and establishes the other party’s liability.

3. Identify and Inform Liable Parties

Your Cripple Creek injury attorney will determine which individuals or entities bear legal responsibility for your injuries, whether it’s a negligent driver, property owner, or product manufacturer. Then, we’ll formally notify these parties (and their insurers) of our intent to pursue compensation on your behalf.

4. Negotiate a Settlement

Most Cripple Creek personal injury cases settle before going to court. We’ll negotiate with insurance companies to seek a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering (among any other damages). If the insurer offers a lowball amount, we won’t hesitate to push for more, and we’re ready to prepare for trial.

5. Prepare for Trial if Necessary

If a fair settlement can’t be reached, our Cripple Creek injury law firm is ready to take your personal injury case before a judge and/or jury. Our litigation experience means you can feel confident we’ll fight vigorously for the compensation you deserve.

The Critical Role of Evidence in Your Personal Injury Claim

Strong evidence is the backbone of any successful claim. While your personal injury attorney will do most of the heavy lifting, your participation is also valuable. When you work with our firm, we can help you collect the following:

• Medical records. These provide a clear picture of your injuries, treatments, and ongoing health needs.
• Professional testimony. Professionals in fields such as accident reconstruction or medicine can help clarify exactly how you were injured.
• Physical evidence. Anything from damaged personal items to skid marks at the scene can support your argument.
• Witness statements from friends and family. They can attest to how the accident has changed your life, physically and emotionally.
• Police or accident reports. These official documents often contain critical details about what happened and who might be at fault.
• Photos, videos, and other footage. Whether captured by bystanders, security cameras, or dashcams, visual evidence can be key to proving negligence.

Some of Our Personal Injury Case Results

Bicyclist Accident – $100,000

Our client, an avid Colorado cyclist, was biking in the mountains when a commercial truck overturned and the debris fell upon them. Our client suffered injuries as a result of the negligence of the truck driver. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., investigated the cause of the accident and ensured that the client received professional care for their injuries. Our client received $100,000 in compensation.

Child Injured in Restaurant – $55,000

A child was washing his hands in a restaurant bathroom when the entire sink collapsed on him. He received cuts and permanent scarring. We settled the case for $55,000.

Multi-Car Accident – $42,000

We represented a driver who was hit by another vehicle, spun into the next lane as a result, and was then hit by another oncoming car. We received a settlement of $42,000, covering our client’s concussion and soft tissue injuries.

What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

“An Absolute Miracle Worker” – Nick Ward (5-Star Google Review)

Tim is an absolute miracle worker. He truly cares about his clients and the outcomes of their case. Me and my family could not have asked for any more out of an attorney. Words cannot express what not only a great lawyer he is but also how great of a person he is. I’m beyond grateful for him and what he did for me. Thank you, Tim and [staff]!

“Tim Did an Excellent Job” – Baldo Tom (5-Star Google Review)

My appreciation and thanks to [The Bussey Law Firm, P.C.] Tim did an excellent job, and I would highly recommend him for your legal matters. Hopefully, I won’t need an attorney—but if I do, Tim is the man!

Ready to Get Started?

A Cripple Creek personal injury attorney is ready to take your call. Call (719) 475-2555 or contact us online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if an insurance adjuster wants me to sign a release form?

Always proceed with caution. A release form can limit your right to seek additional compensation later, especially if new medical issues arise. Before signing anything, consider consulting a Cripple Creek personal injury attorney who can evaluate the offer and advise you on whether it truly reflects your current and potential future losses. Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible, so professional guidance can protect your interests.

Do I need a personal injury attorney for a minor injury claim in Colorado?

Even seemingly “minor” injuries can have long-term repercussions. In Colorado, medical costs and potential complications often add up faster than you’d expect. Hiring a personal injury lawyer helps ensure you don’t accept a quick settlement that doesn’t cover ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering. If you’re uncertain, most attorneys offer free consultations, giving you the chance to discuss the details and decide whether professional representation is necessary.

What happens if I was in an accident while visiting Cripple Creek, CO, from out of state?

If you were injured on vacation or while passing through Cripple Creek, the personal injury laws of Colorado still apply. You can pursue a claim in Colorado courts, even if you live elsewhere. A lawyer who’s licensed in Colorado can handle the local legal process, gather evidence, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf. In many cases, you won’t need to return for every hearing—your lawyer can often appear for you.

Can I afford to hire a Colorado personal injury attorney?

Most personal injury attorneys in Colorado work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay upfront fees; your lawyer only gets paid if you win or settle your case. The fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award. This arrangement makes legal representation more accessible, as you won’t have to worry about hourly rates or retainer fees. It also aligns your lawyer’s interests with yours, motivating them to pursue the maximum compensation possible.

What if I’m partly at fault for my own accident?

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you may still recover compensation if you were less than 50% at fault for your accident, but your total recovery could be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you’re found to be 20% responsible, you might receive 80% of your total damages. An experienced lawyer can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and help minimize any unfair blame the insurance company or other parties try to place on you.