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Written by Remington Fang
When a car crash happens, it’s more than just a stressful moment—it can trigger a series of legal obligations you’re expected to follow immediately. In Denver, Colorado, by law, if you are involved in a collision, you’re required to stop, render aid, exchange information, and report the incident. Failing to follow the right steps could jeopardize your claim and expose you to criminal charges.
At Fang Accident Lawyers, we help crash victims understand their rights, meet legal responsibilities, and secure full compensation under state law, guiding them through insurance negotiations, evidence gathering, medical documentation, and every step of the legal process with focused, experienced support.
By law, if you are involved in a collision, you must stop at the scene and take several critical steps. These responsibilities apply whether the incident caused property damage or resulted in injuries. As outlined in Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1603, certain actions must be taken immediately following a collision. These include:
Key legal obligations include:
Failing to comply with these steps is a criminal offense and may affect your ability to recover damages. Always remain at the scene until law enforcement advises you that you’re free to leave.
Fault is the key factor in determining who is financially responsible for damages after a car accident in Colorado. The driver deemed mostly responsible for causing the accident is typically the one held liable.
The state applies a modified comparative negligence system, which means you can still pursue compensation as long as your share of the fault is less than 50%. However, your total recovery will be reduced in proportion to your share of the blame. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but determined to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by that percentage, resulting in a final recovery of $80,000.
Establishing liability typically involves police reports, witness statements, video footage, expert opinions, and accident reconstructions. Insurance companies conduct their own investigations—but remember, their goal is to minimize what they pay. Working with an experienced attorney ensures that your version of events is backed by evidence and presented clearly.
Insurance adjusters and, if necessary, the courts, determine fault based on the available evidence. Colorado’s comparative negligence system, C.R.S. § 13-21-111, makes this process particularly important in every case.
Common factors considered when assigning fault include:
In cases where insurance companies dispute liability or undervalue your role in the crash, your attorney can challenge their findings with independent evidence and legal arguments.
Leaving the scene of a crash, also known as a hit-and-run, is a serious offense under Colorado law. The consequences vary depending on the severity of the accident.
Here’s what the law says:
Being convicted of a hit-and-run in Colorado can lead to both legal trouble and long-term financial setbacks. Penalties may include time in jail or prison, suspension of your driver’s license, a lasting criminal record, and increased insurance rates. Even if you’re not responsible for causing the crash, leaving the scene can weaken your chances of recovering compensation and narrow your legal options. If you’re unsure about your obligations after an accident, speaking with an attorney who focuses on car accident cases is wise.
Under Colorado law, accident victims have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit related to a car crash, as defined by the Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-80-101. This statute of limitations applies to claims involving bodily injuries, vehicle or property damage, and wrongful death resulting from a collision.
However, there are important exceptions. If the accident involved a government vehicle or agency, the time limit to file a notice of claim may be significantly shorter. Insurance policies may also require prompt notification, sometimes within days, so delaying action can put your case at risk.
Missing the legal deadline means forfeiting your right to sue, regardless of the strength of your evidence or injuries.
At Fang Accident Lawyers, we know a car accident can disrupt more than just your day; it can affect your health, finances, and long-term peace of mind. That’s why our team moves quickly to investigate your case, preserve key evidence, and hold the responsible party accountable.
By law, if you are involved in a collision, you have legal duties that must be followed. Failing to act properly can hurt your case and limit your options. If you’re dealing with injuries from a hit and run, facing questions about fault, or unsure how Colorado statutes apply, our Denver-based firm is ready to help. Car accident law is what we do. Call 720-379-6363 today for a free consultation—and take the first step toward protecting your future.
A Colorado Springs native with a lifelong passion for standing up to bullies, Remington fights for the injured against corporations that put profit over people. Raised in a family devoted to service and healing, he brings compassion and grit to every case.
A graduate of the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Arkansas School of Law, Remington has recovered millions for clients with Fang Accident Lawyers. He believes no injury should silence the human spirit — and he won’t stop fighting until justice is served. See Remington in AVVO.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. It was approved by Remington W. Fang, our Founding Partner, who brings over 10 years of experience as a personal injury attorney.
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