Losing a loved one is one of the hardest experiences a family can face. When that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence, the law allows families to seek justice through a wrongful death claim.
In 2024, Colorado made an important update to its wrongful death laws through House Bill 24-1472 (HB 24-1472). This change directly impacts how much compensation families may be able to recover.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a legal case brought when someone dies because of another person or company’s negligence. Common examples include:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Dangerous property conditions
These claims are meant to help families recover financially and hold the responsible party accountable.
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What Did HB 24-1472 Change?
Before HB 24-1472, Colorado had a relatively low cap on non-economic damages in wrongful death cases. These are damages which do not have a clear economic value, such as:
- Grief
- Loss of companionship
- Emotional suffering
The Big Update
HB 24-1472 significantly increases the cap on non-economic damages in wrongful death cases.
“The act imposes a wrongful death damages cap of $2.125 million, and, starting January 1, 2028, and every 2 years thereafter, adjusts the damages cap based on inflation.”
This means families may now recover more compensation for the emotional impact of losing a loved one—not just financial losses.
Why This Matters for Families
For years, many families felt that the legal system did not fully recognize the emotional weight of their loss. The updated law is a step toward better reflecting the true impact of a wrongful death.
With higher caps:
- Families have a stronger path to full compensation
- Cases may carry more value during settlement negotiations
- Insurance companies may take claims more seriously
What Types of Damages Are Available?
In a Colorado wrongful death case, families may recover:
Economic Damages
- Medical bills before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost income and benefits
Non-Economic Damages
- Grief and emotional distress
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of guidance and support
HB 24-1472 specifically affects non-economic damages, increasing the maximum amount that can be awarded.
Are There Still Limits?
Yes. Even with the increase, Colorado still places caps on non-economic damages in most wrongful death cases.
However, there are important exceptions—especially in cases involving serious misconduct.
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When the Cap May Not Apply
In certain situations, such as felonious killing, the damages cap may not apply at all. These cases are treated differently under Colorado law and can allow for full recovery without the usual limits.
(We cover this in more detail in our related article below.)
How Long Do You Have to File?
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for most wrongful death cases is:
- 2 years from the date of death
Waiting too long can prevent your family from bringing a claim, so it’s important to act quickly.
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Why Legal Guidance Matters More Than Ever
With changes like HB 24-1472, wrongful death cases are becoming more complex. Understanding how the new law applies to your situation can make a significant difference in the outcome.
At Jordan Law, we:
- Stay up to date on changes in Colorado law
- Help families understand their rights
- Build strong, evidence-based cases
- Fight for the compensation families deserve
Talk to Jordan Law Today
If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate this alone.
👉 Start here.
We’re here to help you understand your options and take the next step forward.