Colorado Uninsured Motorist Coverage Laws
Written by Matthew Weidinger
Car accidents are stressful, but discovering the other driver doesn’t have insurance can worsen a bad situation. Fortunately, uninsured motorist coverage exists to protect you in these scenarios. If you’re in Colorado, understanding your options and rights can make all the difference when the unexpected happens.
At Smith & Weidinger, PLLC, we help Colorado motorists across Denver, Broomfield, and Centennial navigate complex accident claims, including those involving uninsured or underinsured drivers. As a veteran-owned, client-first law firm, we combine extensive knowledge of insurance policies with real-world experience in Colorado car accident laws. Our team ensures you aren’t left paying the price for someone else’s lack of coverage.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage—And Why Does It Matter?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is an optional—but highly recommended—type of insurance that provides financial protection if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t carry liability insurance, while underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage helps cover the gap when the at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t enough to compensate you fully.
UM coverage helps pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Other accident-related losses
It essentially steps in to cover the damages you would have received from the at-fault driver, if they had been insured.
In Colorado, while drivers aren’t legally required to purchase UM coverage, insurance companies must offer it when you purchase your policy. You can decline it in writing, but doing so puts you at risk.
According to recent data, approximately one in eight drivers in Colorado is uninsured. That means if you’re hit in a crash, there’s a real chance the other driver may not have the car insurance required to cover your injuries or property damage. UM coverage protects you from that risk.
Colorado’s Uninsured Motorist Laws and Regulations
Colorado law offers several protections for insured drivers in these situations. Here’s what you should know:
- When purchasing auto insurance, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage must be offered (C.R.S. § 10-4-609).
- You have the right to purchase UM/UIM coverage up to the same limits as your liability policy.
- UM coverage is available not only for drivers but also for passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists injured by an uninsured driver.
- You can stack coverage under certain conditions—meaning, if multiple auto insurance policies apply, you may be entitled to additional benefits.
Understanding these regulations can be complicated, especially when dealing with severe injuries and insurance companies. That’s why having legal guidance is so important.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works
When an uninsured driver injures you, your uninsured motorist coverage becomes the primary source of compensation. But it’s not automatic—there’s a process involved:
- File a Claim with Your Insurance Company: Even though you weren’t at fault, your own insurance provider will handle the claim under your UM policy.
- Prove the Other Driver Was Uninsured and At Fault: This typically involves police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence from the auto accident scene.
- Document Your Damages: Medical bills, wage loss documentation, and other evidence will be used to calculate your claim’s value.
- Negotiate or Litigate: Insurance agents try to minimize or delay payments. Legal representation is often essential to fight for what you’re owed.
Smith & Weidinger, LLC, works closely with clients throughout this process. We manage communications with the insurer, compile the necessary documentation regarding your insurance coverage, and pursue maximum compensation, whether negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to court.
Legal Implications of Driving Without Insurance in Colorado
Driving without insurance in Colorado is a serious offense. Penalties include:
- Fines starting at $500 (and increasing with each offense)
- Points on your driving record
- License suspension
- SR-22 insurance requirement for three years
- Potential jail time for repeat offenders
If an uninsured and underinsured driver causes an accident, they may also face personal liability for the victim’s damages. But since many uninsured drivers don’t have the financial resources to pay for medical bills and property damage, victims are often left holding the bill—unless they have UM coverage.
That’s why Smith & Weidinger strongly recommends that all drivers review their policies and understand their uninsured motorist coverage limits.
How Smith & Weidinger, PLLC, Helps with Uninsured Motorist Claims
As experienced car accident attorneys, we know how to handle car accident claims involving uninsured motorists. From day one, our goal is to protect your rights, guide you through the process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Here’s how we help:
- Free consultations to assess your case and insurance coverage
- Detailed investigation to prove fault and establish liability
- Claim preparation and negotiation with your insurance company
- Support with medical documentation and billing issues
- Courtroom representation, if your insurer fails to offer a fair settlement
We understand the tactics automobile insurance companies use to delay or deny valid claims, and we don’t let them get away with it. Our personal injury attorneys are known for responsive communication, transparent legal advice, and lower fees than the industry standard, so you keep more of your settlement.
What to Do After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
If you’ve been in a crash and the other driver doesn’t have insurance, take the following steps immediately:
- Call 911 and report the motor vehicle accident
- Seek medical attention, even if bodily injuries seem minor
- Get the other driver’s information, even if they admit they’re uninsured
- Document the scene with photos, videos, and witness contact details
- Notify your insurance provider—but don’t give a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer
- Contact Smith & Weidinger, PLLC, to begin building your personal injury lawsuit
Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
Choosing the Right Uninsured Motorist Coverage for Colorado Drivers
When reviewing or purchasing uninsured motorist coverage and your auto insurance, keep the following tips in mind:
- Match your UM coverage to your liability limits for full protection
- Don’t waive coverage, even to save money—it’s not worth the risk
- Ask about stacking options if you have multiple insured vehicles or policies
- Understand what’s covered, including hit-and-run accidents and pedestrian bodily injuries
Protect Yourself with the Right Legal Team
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is never easy, especially when the at-fault driver’s insurance is nonexistent. But with Smith & Weidinger, PLLC on your side, you don’t have to face it alone.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney.
Note: The information provided in this blog post has been compiled from publicly available and secondary sources. While we strive for accuracy, some details may become outdated or contain inadvertent errors. If you believe any information is incorrect or requires updating, please contact Smith & Weidinger so that we may review and make the appropriate corrections.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a solicitation for business. The photo used is not from the scene of the incident described. Viewing this content does not create an attorney-client relationship with Smith & Weidinger. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and then consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.
Related Posts
The Transformative Journey with Our Personal Injury Legal...
Navigating the aftermath of an accident or injury can be one of the most challenging...
How Many Points Do I Have On My...
Understanding how many points do you have on your license can be crucial for maintaining...
How Long Does A Car Accident Settlement Take?
After a car accident, the physical pain and emotional stress are often compounded by a...