2026 Colorado Settlement Average
The average car accident settlement in Colorado in 2026 is $55,000. This is 81% higher than the national average of $30,416. Colorado's modified comparative fault system, growing population along the Front Range, and mountain driving hazards contribute to these settlement values.
Get Your Colorado Settlement Estimate
Colorado Personal Injury Laws (2026)
Colorado has specific laws that impact car accident settlements:
Modified Comparative Negligence (50% Bar)
Colorado uses a modified comparative fault system. You can recover damages only if you're 49% or less at fault. If you're 50% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Non-Economic Damage Considerations
Colorado has a cap on non-economic damages (pain and suffering) in some cases, currently around $642,180 (adjusted for inflation). However, the cap can be exceeded if clear and convincing evidence supports higher damages. Auto accident cases often aren't capped.
3-Year Statute of Limitations
You have 3 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in Colorado (C.R.S. § 13-80-101). This gives you more time than many states to assess injuries and build your case.
At-Fault Insurance State
Colorado is an at-fault state, meaning the at-fault driver (or their insurance) is responsible for damages. You can file a claim with their insurance or sue directly.
Colorado Minimum Insurance
2026 Colorado Settlement by City
Settlement values vary within Colorado based on the Front Range metro areas and mountain regions:
| City/Region | 2026 Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boulder | $68,000 | Highest in CO |
| Denver Metro | $62,000 | State capital |
| Aurora | $54,000 | Denver suburb |
| Fort Collins | $52,000 | Northern CO |
| Colorado Springs | $48,000 | El Paso County |
| Mountain Communities | $58,000 | Ski areas, tourism |
| Eastern Plains | $42,000 | Rural areas |
I-70 Mountain Corridor = High Risk
2026 Colorado Settlement by Injury Type
Here's what to expect for different injury types in Colorado in 2026:
| Injury Type | CO 2026 Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Spinal Cord Injury | $1,600,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury | $1,150,000 | $850,000 |
| Internal Injuries | $350,000 | $250,000 |
| Broken Bones | $175,000 | $125,000 |
| Herniated Disc | $105,000 | $75,000 |
| Whiplash | $28,000 | $18,950 |
| Soft Tissue | $22,000 | $15,000 |
Colorado Premium: ~35% Above National
Factors Unique to Colorado Cases
Several factors make Colorado car accident claims unique:
Colorado's Front Range is booming, with increased traffic and accident rates.
More time to assess injuries and build a stronger case than many states.
Ski season brings millions of out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with mountain roads.
Being 50%+ at fault bars recovery entirely — stricter than pure comparative states.
Winter Driving Hazards
Calculate Your Colorado Settlement
To estimate your Colorado settlement value, you need a calculator that accounts for Colorado's specific laws and regional variations.
Colorado Multiplier Method (2026)
CO Settlement = (Medical Bills + Lost Wages) × CO Multiplier (1.5 - 4.5x)
Colorado multipliers range from 1.5x for minor injuries to 4.5x for severe injuries. Denver and Boulder areas tend to see higher multipliers than rural regions.
Get Your Colorado Settlement Estimate
Our AI calculator uses Colorado-specific 2026 data, including your city, injury type, and case details. Get your estimated range in minutes — completely free.
Calculate My Colorado SettlementColorado-specific data • Attorney-reviewed • No obligation
Are You An Attorney?
Use AI to estimate settlements for your clients with a SetCalc Professional account.
Learn More