Car accidents are not uncommon in Colorado. Unfortunately, accidents involving hit and run drivers are also not uncommon throughout this state. When a person is struck by a driver who then flees the scene, this can present significant complications when it comes to securing compensation. Here, we want to discuss hit and run accidents in Colorado as well as what options victims in these cases have when it comes to getting the money they need for their injuries and property damage.
Under Colorado law, every driver has to stop and take various actions in the event they are involved in an accident. First, regardless of the severity of an incident, every driver needs to get out and check on others involved. Colorado law requires that any accident be reported if there is more than $1,000 worth of property damage or if there are any injuries or fatalities involved. Drivers involved in the crash must stay at the scene, render aid to victims if possible, provide their personal information, and show a driver’s license upon request.
Any driver who flees the scene of an accident that results in an injury without rendering aid could face a Class 1 misdemeanor conviction punishable by up to 18 months in jail. If a victim’s injuries were serious, this could raise the offense to a Class 5 felony punishable by 1 to 3 years in prison. If a person flees the scene of an accident that results in death, they could face a Class 3 felony charge punishable by 4 to 12 years in prison.
Fleeing the scene of an accident that results in property damage can result in a Class 2 misdemeanor conviction punishable by up to 1 year in jail.
There are various steps that you can take immediately after being involved in an incident where another driver has fled the scene. This includes: