Three Dead and One Injured in Metro Denver Hit-and-Run

A tragic hit-and-run on Interstate 25 in Denver on July 31, 2025, left one person dead and raised urgent questions about justice and accountability for grieving families. According to a report from the Denver Post, investigators say the crash involved a driver who fled the scene, leaving behind devastation and heartbreak for those affected. This fatal collision highlights the growing dangers of reckless driving on Colorado highways and the lasting consequences families face when a loved one is taken too soon.

For surviving family members, a sudden wrongful death is more than just a tragic loss. It often means unexpected medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and profound emotional trauma. While no legal action can undo the pain, Colorado’s wrongful death laws provide a path to justice and compensation when negligence or criminal behavior takes a life.

At the Law Office of Jordan S. Levine, we stand with Denver families navigating the aftermath of fatal accidents. Our legal team has extensive experience handling wrongful death cases throughout Colorado and is committed to holding negligent drivers accountable. If your family has lost a loved one in a Denver wrongful death crash, call us at (303) 835-4910 for a free consultation today.

How a Wrongful Death Attorney in Denver Can Help Families Recover Compensation

When a loved one dies in a fatal crash on a Denver roadway, the emotional and financial consequences can be overwhelming. Families are often left with unanswered questions, unexpected expenses, and the need to hold negligent drivers accountable. The wrongful death attorneys at Levine Law help guide families through this process by explaining their rights, pursuing financial compensation, and seeking justice on behalf of the deceased. Colorado’s laws allow surviving relatives to take civil action, and resources like the Colorado Revised Statutes on wrongful death establish the legal foundation for these claims.

The Role of a Denver Wrongful Death Lawyer in Seeking Justice

An experienced Denver wrongful death lawyer investigates the circumstances of the crash, collects crucial evidence, and files the lawsuit within Colorado’s strict legal timelines. The goal is not only to recover damages but also to make sure negligent drivers face accountability. Families navigating this process can benefit from understanding how wrongful death claims fit within Colorado’s broader civil justice system, as explained by the American Bar Association.

Types of Compensation a Denver Wrongful Death Attorney Pursues

Colorado law recognizes both economic and non-economic damages in wrongful death cases. Economic damages address measurable financial losses, while non-economic damages focus on the emotional toll.

Economic Damages That Families May Recover

Economic damages may include lost wages, funeral costs, and outstanding medical expenses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, economists often use wage data and life expectancy tables to project future earnings, which a wrongful death attorney can present in court.

Medical Costs Incurred Before Death

Victims who receive emergency treatment before passing away often leave behind significant medical bills. Hospitals such as UCHealth in Denver and Denver Health Medical Center are frequently involved in trauma care after crashes, and their records become key evidence in a wrongful death case.

Funeral and Burial Expenses

The National Funeral Directors Association reports that funerals in the United States typically exceed $7,000, not including burial or memorial costs. A Denver wrongful death attorney ensures these expenses are accounted for in the claim so families are not left to carry the burden alone.

Non-Economic Damages Recognized in Colorado

Colorado law also allows families to pursue damages for grief, loss of companionship, and the guidance their loved one would have provided. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies outlines how statutory caps on non-economic damages are adjusted periodically for inflation, which directly impacts wrongful death settlements.

Loss of Companionship and Support

A wrongful death lawyer will emphasize the loss of love, care, and guidance that a spouse, parent, or child would have provided. These claims are essential for recognizing the real human impact of a sudden death.

Emotional Pain and Grief Experienced by Families

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights how grief can cause long-term health issues, including depression and chronic stress. Attorneys often use expert testimony from psychologists or counselors to document these impacts in wrongful death cases.

Proving Negligence in a Denver Wrongful Death Claim

To secure compensation, a lawyer must prove negligence by showing that the at-fault party breached a duty of care and directly caused the death.

Gathering Evidence After a Fatal Crash

Investigations often include police reports from the Denver Police Department, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness testimony. In some cases, attorneys may subpoena cellphone records or vehicle black box data to demonstrate reckless driving.

Demonstrating Duty, Breach, and Causation

These legal elements, duty, breach, causation, and damages, form the backbone of a wrongful death case. The American Bar Association provides an overview of how attorneys frame these arguments to establish liability.

Role of Expert Witnesses in Proving Fault

Expert testimony is often essential. Accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and economists help juries understand the full scope of the tragedy. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration offers resources that lawyers may reference in truck-related fatal accidents, including rules on hours of service and equipment safety.

How a Denver Wrongful Death Lawyer Supports Families Beyond Compensation

A wrongful death attorney’s role extends far beyond the courtroom. For grieving families, having an advocate means they don’t have to face insurance companies and legal systems alone.

Protecting Families From Insurance Tactics

Insurance carriers often attempt to minimize payouts or argue that damages are speculative. A Denver wrongful death attorney shields families from these strategies. Reports from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners show how insurers frequently undervalue claims, underscoring the importance of strong representation.

Offering Compassionate Guidance During Legal Proceedings

Wrongful death cases involve strict filing deadlines, rules of evidence, and potential trials. The National Center for State Courts explains how civil lawsuits require detailed documentation, which can be overwhelming for families without legal help.

Helping Families Find Closure Through Justice

While no verdict can bring a loved one back, pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit ensures accountability and may provide families with closure. Many find peace in knowing they honored their loved one’s memory by fighting for justice in court.

How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Denver?

One of the most important questions grieving families ask after losing a loved one is how much time they have to take legal action. In Colorado, the statute of limitations for wrongful death cases is strict, and missing this deadline can permanently bar families from pursuing compensation. A wrongful death lawyer in Denver helps families understand these timelines, file claims correctly, and preserve their right to justice.

Understanding the Colorado Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations

Colorado law gives surviving families a limited window to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. According to the Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-202, most wrongful death cases must be filed within two years of the date of death. This timeframe applies whether the death resulted from a fatal car crash on I-25, a workplace accident, or negligence in a medical facility. Because courts enforce these limits strictly, even a small delay can mean losing the ability to seek damages.

Who Has the Right to File During the First Year

The law prioritizes the surviving spouse during the first year after a wrongful death in Denver. A husband or wife has the exclusive right to bring a claim during this time. If no spouse exists, then children or other heirs may gain eligibility. These legal rights are outlined in Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-201. A wrongful death attorney in Denver can ensure families file at the right time and with the correct parties listed, preventing disputes that could slow the case.

Why Timing Matters for Surviving Spouses

When a surviving spouse waits too long to act, other relatives may lose opportunities for justice. Courts often dismiss claims filed outside of the statutory order, leaving families without recourse. The National Center for State Courts emphasizes how crucial it is for family members to understand eligibility rules early in the process.

Including Children With Spouse Consent

Colorado law allows a surviving spouse to join children in the claim during the first year. This inclusion requires written consent, and an experienced lawyer ensures these documents meet state requirements. Without legal oversight, improperly filed claims may be rejected, leaving families with no path forward.

What Happens in the Second Year After a Denver Wrongful Death

If the surviving spouse has not filed within the first year, children and designated heirs can file in the second year. In cases where no spouse or children exist, parents of the deceased may have standing. These eligibility rules reflect Colorado’s goal of giving those most directly impacted by the loss the first opportunity to seek justice.

Claims Involving Parents of the Deceased

Parents may only file during the second year if the deceased left no spouse or children. These cases are especially sensitive, as they often involve young adults whose futures were cut short. The Colorado Judicial Branch provides resources on filing civil lawsuits, including wrongful death actions, but families should consult with a Denver wrongful death attorney to navigate these complex rules.

Timing Concerns in Cases With Multiple Potential Claimants

When more than one party has standing, disputes may arise over who has the legal right to file. Attorneys often mediate these disagreements, ensuring the claim proceeds without delay. Courts expect claims to follow statutory timelines, and delays caused by family conflict can jeopardize the case.

Exceptions and Special Rules That Can Affect Filing Deadlines

While most wrongful death cases in Denver must be filed within two years, certain circumstances extend or shorten the timeline.

Criminal Conduct and Wrongful Death

If the death involved a felony, such as vehicular homicide or reckless driving under the influence, families may have additional rights. The Colorado Department of Public Safety tracks criminal prosecutions, and criminal cases often run parallel to civil lawsuits. While a criminal conviction does not automatically guarantee civil compensation, it can extend timelines in certain wrongful death cases.

Government Entities and Shorter Deadlines

When a wrongful death involves a government agency, such as a fatal crash caused by a city-owned vehicle, families face much shorter deadlines. Under Colorado’s Governmental Immunity Act, formal notice of intent to sue must be filed within 182 days. Missing this requirement can prevent families from holding public entities accountable.

Importance of Filing a Notice of Claim

Filing a notice of claim is a technical process requiring precise information. The Colorado State Attorney General’s Office provides guidance on government claims, but a Denver wrongful death lawyer ensures notices meet strict formatting and timing rules.

Why Acting Quickly Matters in Denver Wrongful Death Cases

Even when the two-year statute of limitations appears generous, families should never wait to contact a lawyer. Evidence disappears quickly, witnesses forget details, and defendants may relocate. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration emphasizes the importance of early crash investigations in preserving facts that prove negligence. Attorneys use this evidence to build stronger wrongful death claims.

Preserving Evidence and Witness Testimony

Accident reports, medical records, and surveillance footage often fade or are destroyed if families wait too long. Lawyers act quickly to secure this evidence before it disappears. Courts give more weight to fresh, documented testimony than to recollections years after the fact.

How Delay Can Affect Settlement Negotiations

Insurance companies are aware of the statute of limitations and may attempt to stall negotiations until the deadline passes. Reports from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners show that insurers often undervalue or deny claims when families lack legal representation. A wrongful death attorney in Denver protects families from these tactics by filing on time and pushing the case forward.

How a Denver Wrongful Death Lawyer Guides Families Through Filing Deadlines

For families dealing with overwhelming grief, keeping track of legal deadlines can feel impossible. A wrongful death attorney ensures that claims are filed within the statutory window, eligibility rules are followed, and procedural requirements are met. This guidance gives families the best chance at full compensation and justice for their loved one.

By consulting with an attorney immediately after a fatal crash, families can avoid losing their legal rights and gain peace of mind knowing their case is moving forward. Acting early is the single most effective step families can take to protect themselves under Colorado law.

Can I File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After a Fatal Car Crash?

When a loved one dies in a Denver car accident, families are often left wondering whether they have the legal right to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Colorado law does allow surviving relatives to file claims, but the eligibility rules, timelines, and procedures can be complex. Levine Law’s wrongful death lawyers help grieving families understand their rights, determine who can file, and ensure that cases are pursued within Colorado’s strict statutory deadlines.

Who Has the Legal Right to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Denver

The state of Colorado places limits on which family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit after a fatal crash. According to Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-201, the surviving spouse has the exclusive right to file during the first year after the death. Children may be included with the spouse’s consent, but they cannot file independently until the second year. If the deceased person was unmarried and had no children, the right to file may pass to the parents.

Why the Order of Eligibility Matters

These rules are designed to prioritize the individuals most directly impacted by the loss, but they can also create confusion among families. The Colorado Judicial Branch provides resources explaining how civil lawsuits work, but families often need legal guidance to ensure that claims are filed correctly. A wrongful death attorney in Denver can navigate these rules and avoid delays caused by misfiled cases.

Complex Cases With Multiple Eligible Relatives

In cases where several relatives have standing, disputes can arise over who should file first. Courts expect compliance with the statute, and claims filed outside of the designated order are often dismissed. Lawyers act as mediators in these situations, ensuring that all eligible relatives are represented without jeopardizing the case.

How Fatal Car Accidents Become Wrongful Death Cases

Not every fatal crash qualifies as a wrongful death claim. To succeed, the family must show that the accident was caused by negligence or wrongful conduct. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration explains that driver error remains the leading cause of fatal collisions, often involving speeding, distracted driving, or impairment.

Examples of Negligence That Can Lead to Claims

Fatal crashes often involve reckless behaviors that go beyond simple mistakes. A Denver wrongful death attorney may investigate whether the driver was impaired, texting behind the wheel, or violating traffic laws. For instance, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that nearly one-third of traffic deaths nationwide involve impaired drivers.

When Third Parties Share Responsibility

Sometimes liability extends beyond the driver. Vehicle manufacturers, bars that overserved alcohol, or government entities that failed to maintain safe roads may all share responsibility. The Federal Highway Administration provides extensive research on how poor roadway design contributes to fatal accidents, which can form the basis of claims against municipalities.

Proving Negligence in a Denver Wrongful Death Case

Families cannot simply claim negligence; they must prove it. A wrongful death lawsuit after a fatal car crash in Denver requires demonstrating that the at-fault party had a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused the death.

The Importance of Evidence Collection

Lawyers start by securing crash reports from the Denver Police Department, interviewing witnesses, and examining accident reconstruction findings. Traffic camera footage and black box data from vehicles may also provide crucial proof.

Expert Witnesses and Accident Reconstruction

Specialists in crash dynamics, medical professionals, and financial experts often testify in wrongful death cases. The American Bar Association highlights how expert testimony strengthens claims by explaining technical issues to judges and juries.

The Role of a Denver Wrongful Death Attorney in Fatal Car Crash Claims

Even when families have legal standing, pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit without representation can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often minimize claims, and legal procedures are filled with deadlines and technical requirements.

Protecting Families From Insurance Company Tactics

Reports from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners show how insurers often undervalue or deny claims when families lack representation. A wrongful death lawyer in Denver negotiates aggressively to secure full compensation, ensuring insurers cannot take advantage of grieving relatives.

Guiding Families Through the Court Process

Wrongful death claims must follow Colorado’s civil procedure rules. The National Center for State Courts explains how complex litigation can become, particularly when multiple defendants or expert witnesses are involved. An attorney ensures filings, motions, and hearings are handled properly while families focus on healing.

Why Families Should Act Quickly After a Fatal Car Accident

Although the law allows up to two years to file a wrongful death claim in Colorado, waiting too long can jeopardize the case. Evidence may disappear, witnesses may forget details, and insurance companies may use delay tactics. The Colorado Department of Transportation emphasizes that early crash investigations are essential for determining fault in fatal accidents.

Preserving Evidence Before It Is Lost

Surveillance footage, skid marks, and damaged vehicles can provide vital proof but are often lost within weeks. Attorneys move quickly to secure this evidence before it disappears. Courts and juries give more weight to timely documentation than to late recollections.

How Delay Can Impact Compensation

Delays not only risk dismissal under the statute of limitations but can also reduce settlement offers. Insurance companies know that families facing financial strain may accept less compensation when time is running out. Acting early with a Denver wrongful death attorney helps secure stronger results.

Contact a Denver Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

Losing a loved one in a fatal accident is one of the most painful experiences a family can endure. The grief is overwhelming, and the financial burdens that follow can feel impossible to manage alone. Whether your family is facing funeral expenses, medical bills, or the devastating loss of income and support, a Denver wrongful death lawyer can help you seek justice and hold negligent parties accountable.

At the Law Office of Jordan S. Levine, we provide compassionate legal guidance to families throughout Denver who are navigating wrongful death claims. Our team has the experience and dedication to stand up to insurance companies, investigate the truth behind fatal crashes, and fight for the compensation your family deserves. We know that no legal action can replace a loved one, but pursuing a wrongful death case can bring closure and financial stability during an incredibly difficult time.

You do not have to face this process alone. Call us today at (303) 835-4910 or reach out through our secure contact page to schedule your free consultation. Let us fight for justice on your behalf while you focus on healing with your family.