Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most life-altering injuries a person can experience, affecting physical abilities, independence, and often requiring significant lifestyle adjustments.
Car accidents can be distressing, but they become even more challenging when the at-fault driver is uninsured. In Colorado Springs, many drivers comply with the state’s requirement to carry liability insurance, but a surprising number still drive without coverage. For victims of accidents caused by uninsured drivers, understanding their options for recovering damages is essential.

Colorado’s Insurance Laws and the Problem of Uninsured Drivers
Colorado law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance coverage to protect others in the event of an accident. These minimum requirements include:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 for property damage
Despite these requirements, some drivers fail to obtain insurance, often leaving accident victims with few immediate options for compensation. When an uninsured driver causes an accident, recovering damages can become a legal and financial hurdle for the victim.
Can You Sue an Uninsured Driver?
Suing an uninsured driver for damages is possible in Colorado Springs, but the feasibility and success of such a lawsuit depend on several factors. Here’s what you need to know:
Establishing Liability
To win a lawsuit, you must prove that the uninsured driver was at fault for the accident. This involves demonstrating that their negligence directly caused the collision and the resulting damages. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstructions can strengthen your case.
Assessing the Driver’s Financial Resources
Even if you win a lawsuit, collecting compensation from an uninsured driver may be challenging if they lack the financial means to pay. Many uninsured drivers have limited assets, which can make recovering a judgment difficult. In these cases, pursuing a lawsuit might result in a legal victory without actual monetary recovery.
Weighing Costs and Benefits
Lawsuits involve legal fees, court costs, and time. Before suing an uninsured driver, it’s important to evaluate whether the potential compensation justifies these expenses. Consulting an attorney can help determine whether pursuing legal action is the best course of action in your situation.
Alternative Compensation Options
While suing the at-fault driver is one option, victims of uninsured motorist accidents in Colorado Springs may have other avenues to recover damages. These include:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is an essential part of auto insurance policies in Colorado. This coverage steps in to compensate you for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Colorado law requires insurers to offer UM coverage unless the policyholder explicitly declines it in writing. If you have UM coverage, it provides a direct and often quicker way to recover damages without pursuing legal action.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage, another optional component of auto insurance, can pay for repairs to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. If you have this coverage, it can provide financial relief for property damage caused by an uninsured driver.
Health Insurance
If you’ve sustained injuries in the accident, your health insurance can cover medical expenses. While this doesn’t compensate for lost wages or pain and suffering, it ensures that your immediate healthcare needs are addressed while you explore other compensation options.
When Suing an Uninsured Driver Is Warranted
There are situations where pursuing a lawsuit against an uninsured driver is worth considering, including:
- The driver has significant assets that can be used to satisfy a judgment.
- There are other parties, such as vehicle owners or third-party entities, who may share liability.
- Your insurance coverage, including UM benefits, doesn’t fully cover your damages.
In these cases, an attorney can help you assess the likelihood of success and determine the best strategy for recovering compensation.
Steps to Take After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
Protecting your rights and securing compensation begins with taking the right steps immediately after the accident. Here’s what to do:
Contact the Police
Report the accident to law enforcement and ensure that a police report is filed. This document is crucial for establishing the details of the accident and identifying the at-fault driver’s lack of insurance.
Gather Evidence
Collect as much information as possible at the scene. Take photos of the damage, the accident location, and any injuries. Obtain contact information from witnesses, as their statements can support your case.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, and a medical record is essential for documenting your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer promptly. If you have uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage, start the claims process to recover damages through your policy.
Consult an Attorney
Speaking with a personal injury attorney experienced in uninsured motorist cases is critical. They can evaluate your options, guide you through the claims process, and represent you in legal proceedings if necessary.
The Role of Legal Representation
An attorney plays a vital role in helping victims of uninsured motorist accidents secure compensation. They can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
- Determine whether suing the at-fault driver is a viable option.
- Negotiate with your insurance company to maximize your compensation.
- Identify additional liable parties, such as vehicle owners or third-party entities.
Having legal support ensures that your case is handled professionally and increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Contact Shakeshaft Law Firm if You’ve Been in an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
While suing an uninsured driver for damages in Colorado Springs is possible, it’s not always the most practical solution. Alternatives such as uninsured motorist coverage or other forms of insurance may offer quicker and more reliable compensation. However, in cases where legal action is warranted, having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference.If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, contact Shakeshaft Law Firm. Our dedicated team in Colorado Springs has extensive experience handling uninsured motorist cases and will work tirelessly to help you recover the compensation you deserve.