How Should You Act Legally After Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

What Should I Do Immediately After Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

Right after an accident, emotions can run high and things might feel chaotic. But it’s important to keep a cool head. First off, make sure you’re safe and check on others too. If you can, move your car out of traffic to avoid more accidents.

Then, call the police. Even if it seems like a minor fender-bender, having a police report can be a lifesaver when dealing with insurance or legal issues later. In Colorado, you have to report any accident that causes injury, death, or major property damage.

Should I Seek Medical Attention Even If I Feel Fine?

Absolutely, yes. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, might not show up right away. Get checked out by a doctor after an accident, even if you think you’re okay. This not only makes sure you’re healthy but also creates a record of any injuries, which can be super important if you end up in court.

What Information Should I Gather at the Scene?

Make sure to get the other driver’s name, contact info, insurance details, and license plate number. If there are any witnesses, try to get their contact info too. Take photos or videos of the cars, the area around you, and any visible injuries.

What Are the Legal Consequences of Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

In Colorado, leaving the scene of an accident, or a hit and run, can get you into serious trouble. If it’s just property damage, it’s a Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense, which could mean 10 to 90 days in jail, a fine between $150 and $300, or both. If someone got hurt or died, the penalties are much harsher, possibly leading to felony charges, big fines, and jail time.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Colorado uses a modified comparative negligence rule. This means even if you were partly to blame, you could still get some compensation. But your payout will be reduced by your percentage of fault. So, if you were 30% at fault and your damages are $10,000, you’d get $7,000.

What Should I Do If I Left the Scene of an Accident?

If you left the scene, you need to act fast and responsibly. First, call the police and report the accident. Be honest about what happened because lying can make things worse. Then, contact your insurance company and let them know. Finally, talk to a lawyer who can help you navigate the legal maze and try to reduce any penalties.

Can I Still File a Claim If I Left the Scene of an Accident?

Yes, you can still file a claim, but it might be trickier. Insurance companies often see leaving the scene as a sign of guilt, which can complicate your claim. But a good lawyer can help you through this and fight for your rights.

What If I Wasn’t Aware That I Was Involved in an Accident?

Sometimes, you might not even know you were in an accident, like if you bumped a parked car without realizing it. In these cases, the law looks at the situation and your intent. If you genuinely didn’t know, this could be a defense. Talk to a lawyer to understand your options and what to do next.

What If I Was Uninsured When I Left the Scene of an Accident?

Driving without insurance in Colorado is illegal and can lead to big penalties, including fines and losing your license. If you were uninsured and left the scene, you could face even more charges.

But even if you were uninsured, you still have rights. A lawyer can help you understand your legal options, negotiate with the other party’s insurance, and represent you in any legal proceedings.

What If I Left the Scene of an Accident Due to Fear or Panic?

It’s natural to feel scared or panicked after an accident, but leaving the scene can still get you into legal trouble. Colorado law says you have to stop if you’re involved in an accident, no matter what.

If you left because you were scared, talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you navigate the legal process, argue for leniency based on your state of mind, and work to reduce any penalties.

What If I Left the Scene of an Accident Involving an Unattended Vehicle or Property?

In Colorado, if you hit an unattended vehicle or property, you have to try to find the owner or leave a note with your contact info. If you don’t, you could be charged with leaving the scene.

If you left the scene, talk to a lawyer. They can help you report the incident and understand the potential legal consequences.

What If I Was Under the Influence When I Left the Scene of an Accident?

If you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs when you left the scene, things get a lot more serious. In Colorado, DUI is a big deal, and combining it with a hit and run can lead to severe penalties like mandatory jail time, big fines, losing your license, and possibly a felony record.

In this situation, get in touch with a lawyer right away. They can help you understand the charges, guide you through the legal process, and work to lessen the penalties.

How Can an Attorney Help Me?

Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be really overwhelming. A good lawyer can guide you through the process and make sure your rights are protected. They can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed.

An attorney can also help you understand Colorado law. For example, there’s a time limit for filing personal injury claims, so you need to act quickly. A lawyer can make sure you meet all the deadlines and follow the right steps.

If you have left the scene of an accident, contact Daniel M. Murphy, P.C today at 303-395-5293 for a free consultation.