Fort Collins Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been in a car crash, Doug Allen is here to fight for you. With extensive experience in personal injury law and a background as a former insurance company attorney, Doug knows how insurance companies operate and how to secure the highest settlements for his clients.

• Proven Results: Over 30 years focusing exclusively on personal injury and motor vehicle accidents, settling more than 5,000 cases.
• Expert Negotiator: Armed with insider knowledge of insurance practices, Doug uses strategic negotiation tactics to maximize your settlement.
• Comprehensive Support: From investigating your case and preserving crucial evidence to ensuring you receive appropriate medical care, Doug handles every aspect of your claim.

No Case Is Too Small. Everyone Deserves Compensation

In Fort Collins and across Northern Colorado, Doug Allen provides dedicated legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Stay Calm

In the immediate aftermath of an accident, keeping your composure is crucial. Your adrenaline may be high, and you might be anxious about your injuries and the situation.

• Avoid Admitting Fault: Focus on gathering information rather than discussing who might be at fault. Any admissions of guilt, even if not fully accurate, can be used against you by insurance companies.
  Listen and Document: Pay attention to what the other driver says, as any admissions of fault can be beneficial for your case. However, refrain from making statements that could be construed as an acknowledgment of fault.

Call the Police

Contact law enforcement as soon as possible, regardless of the severity of the accident.

• File a Report: An official police report will document the accident scene, vehicle positions, and statements from involved parties and witnesses. This report is a critical piece of evidence in your claim.
• Prevent Tampering: By involving the police, you ensure that the at-fault party cannot alter the scene or their story to their advantage. The police will also issue an accident report, which will be important for your insurance claim and any legal actions.

Document Evidence

Collecting detailed evidence at the scene can significantly impact your case.

• Photograph the Scene: Use your phone or camera to take clear, comprehensive photos of the accident scene from multiple angles. Capture damage to all vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs.
• Record Driver Information: Obtain the at-fault driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details. Taking photos of their driver’s license and insurance card can help ensure you have accurate information, especially if the other party provides false details.
• Gather Witnesses: If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and statements. Witnesses can provide unbiased accounts that support your claim.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to seek medical care.

• Get Checked: Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical evaluation can identify and document any injuries.
• Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider. Proper medical documentation is crucial for substantiating your injuries and supporting your claim.
• Coordinate with Doug Allen: Doug will work with your medical providers to ensure that all necessary documentation is obtained and that you receive the care needed for a strong case.

Taking these steps immediately after an accident will help preserve evidence, protect your rights, and support your claim for compensation. Doug Allen is here to guide you through the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Be Cooperative and Respectful

Stay Calm and Polite: Treat the officers with courtesy and respect. Avoid displaying frustration or anger, as this could influence their perceptions and the resulting report.

Provide Accurate Information

Stick to the Facts: Clearly and truthfully describe what happened. Avoid estimating speeds or distances, as inaccuracies may affect your case later.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Do Not Admit Responsibility: There are multiple factors in determining fault. Admitting fault prematurely can weaken your case, as the full extent of fault may not yet be clear.

Acknowledge Your Injuries

Report Any Discomfort: If you experience pain or discomfort, mention it to the police. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so it’s important to document any symptoms you have at the scene.

Collect and Provide Information

• Exchange Details: Share your insurance information with the police and obtain the at-fault driver’s information, including their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and license plate number. Taking photos of their driver’s license and insurance card can be helpful.
  Document the Scene: Use your phone or camera to take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any relevant road conditions. This evidence is crucial if repairs alter the scene later.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Inform Your Insurer: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. However, consult with Doug Allen before providing any written or recorded statements. Insurance companies may record statements to use against you, so it’s important to be prepared and ensure your statements are protected.

Remain Calm

Your adrenaline will be high, and you might be concerned about your injuries. Listen carefully to the at-fault driver—if they admit fault, this can be valuable evidence. However, avoid admitting any fault yourself, as this can be used against you by the insurance company.

Call the Police Immediately

Don’t let the other driver dissuade you from contacting the police. They may have prior accidents or tickets they don’t want their insurance to know about. Avoid discussing money or settlements with the at-fault driver on the spot; it’s too early to assess the extent of your injuries or damages.

Document the Scene

Use your cell phone to take photos of both vehicles from all angles. Capture the license plate, driver’s license, and insurance card of the at-fault driver. This information is crucial in case the other driver provides false insurance details.

Don’t Move the Vehicles (Unless Necessary)

If safety allows, keep all vehicles in place until the police arrive. They will take photos and measurements to help determine fault. Eyewitness statements, if available, can also provide unbiased evidence.

Experiencing a car accident is a stressful and challenging event that can have significant impacts on your life. Here’s why hiring a personal injury attorney promptly is crucial:

Expertise in the Law

Legal Knowledge Matters: Navigating the legal system and insurance claims can be complex. Even if you think you understand the law, having a knowledgeable attorney is essential. For example, in some cases, like Darrell Brooks’ case in Wisconsin, legal representation could have led to a different outcome. An experienced Fort Collins car accident lawyer can provide the expertise needed to handle your case effectively.

Handling Insurance Companies

Insurance Companies’ Tactics: Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payouts and may employ tactics to undermine your claim. An experienced attorney knows how to handle these tactics and negotiate for a fair settlement. If you handle the claim yourself, you might inadvertently provide statements that could be used against you. A lawyer ensures that any statements you make are protected and strategically managed.

Timely Legal Assistance

Act Quickly: Contacting a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident is crucial. An attorney can guide you on what to say, what evidence to collect, and how to proceed with your claim. Additionally, you have the right to remain silent regarding the details of the accident, which a lawyer can help you navigate to avoid self-incrimination.

Peace of Mind

Reduce Stress: Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. A skilled attorney like Doug Allen can manage the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on recovery and rebuilding your life.