Colorado Personal Injury Statistics & Settlement Data
Comprehensive data on Colorado settlements, verdicts, statutes, and damage thresholds. Updated for 2026.
Average Colorado Settlements by Case Type
| Case Type | Minor Injury | Moderate Injury | Severe / Catastrophic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Accident | $10,000 – $25,000 | $50,000 – $200,000 | $200,000 – $1,000,000+ |
| Truck Accident | $25,000 – $50,000 | $100,000 – $400,000 | $400,000 – $3,000,000+ |
| Medical Malpractice | $50,000 – $100,000 | $150,000 – $500,000 | $500,000 – $1,000,000 (capped) |
| Slip & Fall | $8,000 – $20,000 | $25,000 – $100,000 | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
| Ski / Recreation | $10,000 – $30,000 | $40,000 – $150,000 | $150,000 – $500,000+ |
| Workplace Injury | $10,000 – $30,000 | $50,000 – $200,000 | $200,000 – $800,000+ |
| Dog Bite | $5,000 – $15,000 | $20,000 – $75,000 | $75,000 – $300,000+ |
| Wrongful Death | N/A | $250,000 – $750,000 | $1,000,000 – $5,000,000+ |
Based on publicly available Colorado verdict and settlement data. Actual values vary significantly.
Colorado Statute of Limitations
| Claim Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| General personal injury | 3 years from date of injury |
| Automobile accidents | 2 years from date of accident |
| Medical malpractice | 2 years from discovery (max 3 years from occurrence) |
| Wrongful death | 2 years from date of death |
| Product liability | 2 years from discovery of injury |
| Claims against government | 182-day notice + 2 years under CGIA |
| Minors | Tolled until age 18, then standard period applies |
Colorado Damage Caps & Legal Thresholds
Modified Comparative Fault (50% Bar)
Colorado uses modified comparative fault under C.R.S. § 13-21-111. Recovery only if less than 50% at fault. Award reduced by fault percentage.
Noneconomic Damage Cap
Approximately $642,180 (inflation-adjusted). Courts may increase to ~$1M with clear and convincing evidence. No cap on economic damages.
Medical Malpractice Cap
Total damages capped at ~$1M (inflation-adjusted), with no more than ~$300K noneconomic. Certificate of review required.
Punitive Damages
Generally capped at the amount of actual compensatory damages. Requires proof of fraud, malice, or willful and wanton conduct.
Ski Safety Act (C.R.S. § 33-44-101)
Skiers assume inherent risks. Resorts remain liable for negligence: lift malfunctions, negligent maintenance, failure to mark hazards, reckless employees.
Workers’ Compensation
Exclusive remedy against employer. Third-party lawsuits permitted against other negligent parties.