Legal Risks of Leaving the Scene of an Accident..

Car accidents are taken seriously by Colorado law, especially when a driver leaves the scene instead of taking responsibility. Leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries or property damage can result in criminal charges, steep fines, and long-term damage to your record and insurance. Drivers are expected to remain at the location, exchange information, and offer help to anyone who’s been harmed.

At Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver, we help individuals and families across Colorado who are dealing with the aftermath of hit-and-run crashes. If you’ve been affected by a driver who fled, our legal team is ready to explain your rights and walk you through what happens next.

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Overview of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Colorado

In Colorado, a “hit-and-run” is defined as a driver’s failure to stop after being involved in a car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage. State law requires all drivers to take specific actions before leaving the scene, regardless of who caused the crash.

Under Colorado Revised Statute § 42-4-1603, any driver involved in an accident must stop as close to the scene as safely possible, provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number, and show a valid driver’s license upon request. They are also required to offer reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured, contact emergency responders if medical attention is clearly needed, and remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives and completes their investigation when the accident involves injury or death.

The statute also specifies that if someone is hurt, the driver must help arrange for them to receive medical care by transporting them or calling for assistance, particularly if the person requests it or appears in need. The law does not differentiate based on fault, even if you believe you did not cause the accident, leaving without following proper procedures is still illegal.

Consequences of Leaving the Scene of an Accident

In Colorado, the law treats leaving the scene of an accident as a criminal offense, with penalties that vary based on the outcome of the crash. Whether the incident involves property damage, injury, or loss of life, the legal consequences escalate accordingly.

Under Colorado Revised Statute § 42-4-1606, drivers may face the following charges:

• In accidents involving property damage only, leaving the scene is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense. Penalties may include up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $300, and points assessed against the driver’s license.
• In accidents involving injury, the offense is elevated to a Class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense. A conviction can lead to up to 12 months in jail, fines reaching $1,000, and a mandatory suspension of the driver’s license.
• In accidents involving serious bodily injury, the charge becomes a Class 4 felony. The penalties include two to six years in prison, fines up to $500,000, and revocation of the driver’s license.
• In accidents involving death, the offense is treated as a Class 3 felony. A conviction carries a sentence of four to twelve years in prison, fines as high as $750,000, and permanent disqualification from driving.

These penalties can become more severe if the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, did not have a valid license, or had prior traffic-related offenses. Beyond criminal charges, individuals may also face increased insurance premiums, court-ordered restitution to victims, exposure to civil lawsuits for damages, and the long-term impact of a permanent criminal record.

Are There Any Penalties for Leaving the Accident Scene?

Yes. Under Colorado law, leaving the accident scene, regardless of the extent of damage or injury, always carries penalties. The type of offense and resulting punishment depend on the outcome of the accident. Even in cases where no one is visibly injured, a driver must still stop and exchange information. Failing to do so is a misdemeanor at a minimum.

Some common penalties may include:

• License suspension: Even for minor hit-and-runs, points added to your record may trigger a suspension or revocation.
• Mandatory restitution: Courts may order you to pay for any medical bills, lost wages, or property damage suffered by the other party.
• Felony conviction: In severe cases, particularly involving death or serious injuries, the charge can lead to imprisonment and lifelong consequences.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Being a victim in a hit-and-run car accident in Denver can be overwhelming, but how you respond immediately after the crash can significantly impact your recovery and any future claim. Take the following steps right away to protect your health, rights, and case:

1. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
2. Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and debris. Write down details like time, location, and anything about the other vehicle or driver.
3. Speak to witnesses and collect their contact information while the details are still fresh.
4. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries. A professional evaluation is critical for both recovery and any future claims.
5. File a police report to support the investigation and strengthen your insurance or legal case.
6. Contact a car accident attorney who can identify the responsible driver, explain your legal options, and help pursue fair compensation.

What If You Were the One Who Left the Accident Scene?

If you left the scene in a moment of panic, speaking to a criminal defense attorney immediately is your best option. Voluntarily reporting the incident may reduce the severity of your case, especially if no one was injured. However, remaining silent or delaying legal help can significantly worsen your legal risks.

Need Help After a Car Accident in Denver?

When a negligent driver leaves the scene of the accident, the consequences for victims can be life-changing. Fang Injury & Accident Lawyers Denver represents individuals in Denver and across Colorado who have been hurt in hit-and-run crashes. Our team is here to protect your rights and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Call us at 720-379-6363 or complete our online form for a free consultation today.