A hit and run charge in Colorado can result anytime a driver leaves the scene of an accident without taking certain steps. Injury and damage are large determining factors when it comes to the consequences of a hit and run. Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, possibly leading drivers to poor decision making in the heat of the moment. If you or someone close to you is facing a hit and run allegation, we invite you to contact one of our skilled traffic attorneys for a free consultation.
How Do I Avoid a Hit and Run Charge in Douglas County?
Remaining at the scene of an accident is crucial in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. If while driving you hit a car with no one in it or damage property, you must take the following actions:
- stop and find / notify the owner or driver,
- attach a note with your name and address if you can’t find the owner,
- AND report the accident to police
However, if you’re involved in a accident where there is someone in the other vehicle or injury occurs, other requirements exist. Drivers must stop and offer reasonable assistance in these situations, including calling an ambulance if necessary. You are permitted to leave the scene if you’re in need of immediate medical care or go to report the accident to police.
The 5 Types of Hit and Run in Colorado
There are five specific instances of hit and run addressed in Colorado’s leaving the scene of an accident laws. The following outlines the situations and charges involved when a driver flees the scene:
| Accident | Charge | Penalties |
| hitting an unoccupied vehicle or causing property damage | class 2 misdemeanor | up to 90 days in county jail, fines of $150 – $300 |
| collision resulting in non-serious injury | class 1 misdemeanor | up to 12 months in county jail, fines of $300 – $1,000 |
| collision resulting in serious bodily injury | class 4 felony | 2 – 6 years in prison, fines of $2,000 – $500,000 |
| collision resulting in death | class 3 felony | 4 – 12 years in prison, fines of $3,000 – $750,000 |
Additionally, a hit and run conviction is a 12 point offense against your driving record which will revoke your driver’s license.
Best Traffic Lawyer in Castle Rock
Hit-and-run charges are serious throughout the state of Colorado. Sometimes innocent people face harsh consequences even with good intentions. Our skilled hit and run lawyers have decades of combined experience representing clients with complicated traffic charges. Perhaps you left the scene to look for law enforcement or didn’t realize injury or property damage took place. Nevertheless, call our office today to speak with one of our strategic defense attorneys. We will carefully analyze your unique hit and run case and recommend next steps. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make experienced representation a reality for Colorado drivers.
If you or someone you know is facing a hit and run charge, be smart. Contact the determined traffic attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Matt Chesin
