A group of construction workers in Weld County was recently fortunate to be able to walk away uninjured when a sport utility vehicle barreled through an active work zone.
A Chevrolet Suburban slammed through two construction barricades at a high speed before the driver slowed and was informed that people were working on a road construction project. The driver, who apologized before driving off, was later identified as Charley Vacha of Windsor.
County construction workers “stopped and confronted” Vacha during the incident, which occurred around 11 a.m., according to an ABC News local affiliate. One employee even shot a video at the time using a cell phone.
“In the video, the driver was heard saying that he didn't see the barricades because he had been looking at his phone,” ABC 7 reports. “An employee later reported seeing an unopened fifth of whiskey in the passenger seat and asked the man if he had been drinking, according to the sheriff's office.”
The Weld County Sheriff’s Office later tracked Vacha down and cited him with reckless driving and leaving the accident scene.
Legal Rights for People Injured in Colorado Accidents
Fortunately, no one was harmed in this situation. The problem is that not everyone is that lucky. Car accidents can and do happen, causing serious and even life-threatening injuries when they occur.
Anyone who is injured in a crash in Colorado has the right to seek compensation from those responsible, whether it is a negligent driver or a car manufacturer that makes a defective vehicle. The money damages in car accident cases include payment for current and future doctors’ bills, as well as property damages, missed wages and any impact on your earning capacity stemming from the injuries.
Drivers owe others on the road a “duty of care” to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe way. Motorists are expected to comply with traffic laws, remain alert behind the wheel and refrain from dangerous behavior like tailgating, constantly changing lanes, drinking and driving or using a phone. A driver who fails to do so is likely to be found legally responsible for any accidents that happen as a result.
A skilled legal professional can help you build the strongest possible claim for money damages. The process starts with investigating the accident to identify who is responsible, gathering evidence to prove negligence and compiling medical and other records to detail the injuries caused by the crash.
Legal professionals have experience helping people who have been injured in car crashes and other types of accidents get the money they deserve. Contrary to popular belief, insurance companies are not on the side of the injured party. Their ultimate goal is to attempt to settle for as low an amount as possible or avoid paying compensation altogether. That said, if you want to ensure you have the best possible chance at obtaining justice for yourself and your family, don’t go it alone -- get the help you need.