In Colorado, a separate answer in a personal injury accident refers to a response filed by the defendant in a lawsuit involving a personal injury claim. This answer is submitted by the defendant's attorney to address and counter the allegations made by the plaintiff in their complaint. The purpose of a separate answer in a personal injury accident case is to provide the defendant with an opportunity to present their side of the story and to assert any defenses they might have against the plaintiff's claims. It allows the defendant to dispute liability, challenge the extent or causation of the injuries claimed by the plaintiff, or raise any other legal defenses that may be applicable to the case. Different types of Colorado separate answers in personal injury accidents can include: 1. General Denial Answer: A defendant may choose to file a general denial answer, where they dispute all the allegations made by the plaintiff, essentially denying any fault or negligence on their part. 2. Affirmative Defenses Answer: This type of separate answer asserts various affirmative defenses that can potentially mitigate or eliminate the defendant's liability. Common affirmative defenses might include contributory negligence (the plaintiff's own negligence contributed to the accident), assumption of risk (the plaintiff knowingly exposed themselves to a dangerous situation), or statute of limitations (the plaintiff failed to file the lawsuit within the legally specified time limit). 3. Counterclaims or Cross-Claims: In some cases, the defendant may file a separate answer with counterclaims or cross-claims against the plaintiff or other parties involved in the accident. This allows the defendant to assert their own claims for damages, injuries, or any other legal remedies they believe they are entitled to. It is important to note that the filing of a separate answer does not automatically mean the defendant is denying responsibility or disputing the plaintiff's injuries. It is simply a formal response required by the Colorado court system to ensure both parties have an equal opportunity to present their case. In conclusion, a separate answer in a personal injury accident case in Colorado is a legal document filed by the defendant's attorney in response to the plaintiff's complaint. It allows the defendant to address the allegations made against them and assert any defenses or counterclaims.