Wrongful Death Claims in Colorado Springs: What Families Should Know Before Filing
By Michael M. Clawson, Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer
Losing a loved one is one of the hardest experiences any family can go through. When that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence — whether in a car accident, truck crash, workplace incident, or medical mistake — the grief can feel overwhelming and unfair. In Colorado, families have the right to file a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial support.
As a wrongful death lawyer in Colorado Springs, I often hear from families who don’t know where to begin. Below are some key things you should know before filing a claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Colorado?
Colorado law places limits on who has the legal right to bring a wrongful death claim:
- First year after death: The surviving spouse has the exclusive right to file.
- Second year after death: The spouse, children, or eligible heirs may file.
- If no spouse or children: Parents may bring the claim.
It’s important to understand these rules because filing at the wrong time or by the wrong party could lead to delays.
What Damages Can Families Recover?
A wrongful death claim isn’t just about holding someone accountable — it’s also about helping families move forward financially after an unexpected loss. In Colorado, damages may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to the final injury or illness
- Loss of the deceased’s income and benefits
- Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
- Emotional pain and suffering of surviving family members
Every case is unique, but an experienced Colorado Springs personal injury attorney can help calculate both the economic and non-economic damages your family is entitled to.
How Long Do You Have to File?
Colorado’s statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of death. That may sound like a lot of time, but building a strong case requires gathering evidence, medical records, and sometimes accident reconstruction. It’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Colorado Springs
While wrongful death can arise in many situations, some of the most common include:
- Car accidents caused by reckless or drunk drivers
- Semi-truck crashes on I-25 or other Colorado highways
- Medical malpractice
- Dangerous property conditions (slip and fall accidents)
- Workplace and construction accidents
No matter the cause, families deserve answers and accountability.
Why Hire a Colorado Springs Wrongful Death Lawyer?
Insurance companies often try to settle wrongful death claims quickly — and for far less than families deserve. A skilled attorney will investigate the case, gather expert testimony, and fight for the maximum compensation available under Colorado law. Just as importantly, a lawyer takes the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on grieving and healing.
Filing a wrongful death claim is never easy, but it can provide justice, accountability, and financial security for your family’s future. If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence, don’t go through it alone.
At Clawson & Clawson, we’ve helped families in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and across Colorado seek justice after tragic losses. Call us today at (719) 602-5888 for a free consultation with an experienced wrongful death attorney.
We don’t get paid unless we win for you.
Michael M. Clawson | Colorado Personal Injury Attorney
Email: Michael@clawsonattorney.com