Choosing Car Insurance in Denver, CO
Navigating car insurance in Denver can be confusing. You must know and understand the state’s unique requirements and the many coverage options available. Whether you’re a new resident, a long-time driver, or shopping for better rates, understanding Colorado’s auto insurance laws is essential to protect yourself, your vehicle, and your finances.
This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing car insurance in Denver. We cover everything from state-mandated coverage and recommended protections to what to do if you’re involved in a car accident in Denver, CO.
Colorado’s Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
Colorado’s motor vehicle financial responsibility laws require all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to operate a vehicle legally. The state’s minimum coverage is often referred to as “25/50/15,” which translates to:
- $25,000 in coverage for bodily injury or death to any one person in an accident
- $50,000 in coverage for bodily injury or death to all persons in any one accident
- $15,000 in coverage for property damage in any one accident
Liability insurance coverage pays for injuries or damages you cause to others in a crash. It does not cover your own medical expenses or vehicle repairs.
Why Minimum Car Insurance Coverage May Not Be Enough
The minimum liability limits ($25,000/$50,000/$15,000) are often insufficient for serious accidents. Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage can quickly exceed these amounts, leaving you personally liable for the difference.
You can purchase higher liability insurance limits in Colorado. Speak with your insurance agent about the cost of increasing your insurance coverage. It could protect you from personal liability if you cause an accident that results in catastrophic injuries.
Additional Car Insurance Coverage Options
While the minimum liability coverage is required, it may not be enough to protect you in a serious accident. Your insurance company should offer additional types of automobile insurance.
You may want to consider these additional coverages:
Medical Payments (MedPay)
Colorado law requires insurers to offer at least $5,000 in MedPay coverage, but you can opt out in writing. MedPay covers your medical expenses and those of your passengers, regardless of who caused the accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)
Insurers must offer UM/UIM coverage that matches your liability limits, but you can decline it in writing. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you if an uninsured driver or a hit-and-run driver hits you. It pays for your losses.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) pays when another driver causes an accident and does not have sufficient insurance coverage to pay the total of your economic and non-economic damages.
Collision and Comprehensive
These property damage policies are optional, but your lender may require them if you have a lien on your vehicle. Collision insurance pays for damage to your vehicle when it collides with another object or vehicle, even if it was your fault.
Comprehensive coverage pays for property damage claims when your vehicle is damaged by hail, theft, falling objects, or vandalism.
Choosing the Right Automobile Insurance Policy for Your Needs in Colorado
When shopping for car insurance in Denver, consider factors including:
- Your driving habits and risk factors
- The value of your vehicle
- Your financial situation
- The level of coverage you need for peace of mind
Compare quotes from multiple insurers. Also, ask about discounts, such as safe driving, multi-policy, or low-mileage discounts.
Colorado’s At-Fault Insurance System for Car Accidents
Colorado is an “at-fault” state, meaning the driver who causes an accident is responsible for paying damages. This differs from “no-fault” states, where each driver’s insurance covers their own losses first.
After an accident, injured parties can:
- File a claim with their own insurer (if they have MedPay or UM/UIM)
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer
- File a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver
The best option for you depends on the factors and circumstances involved in your accident. Before deciding what to do, it is wise to speak with an experienced Denver car accident attorney to learn about your legal options and rights.
A Car Accident Attorney Can Help
Choosing the right car insurance in Denver, CO, is about more than just meeting the legal minimum. It’s about protecting yourself, your family, and your assets from the financial fallout of an accident.
By understanding Colorado’s requirements and considering additional coverage options, you can make informed decisions that keep you safe on the road. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the experienced attorneys at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help.
Contact us today for a free consultation with a Denver car accident lawyer. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
We are located in Denver, CO, proudly serving all of Denver County.
Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers
1610 Wynkoop Street, Suite 120
Denver, CO 80202
(720) 613 9706
