Accident Reporting in Colorado - Do you know the law?

Importance of an Accident Report in Colorado Springs

The State of Colorado has very strict rules regarding the reporting of accidents by those who are involved in it. Not complying with the regulations in this case can lead to a Class II misdemeanor charge for which the minimum sentence is 3 months imprisonment or a $250 fine or both. The maximum sentence is 1 year in prison or a $1000 fine or both. The law laying down the reporting of accidents in Colorado is covered by Title 42, Article 4, Part 16 of the Colorado Revised Statutes.

In most situations, no special knowledge of the law is required to comply with regulations. It's common sense that both vehicles must stay at the place where the accident took place and inform the authorities. In addition, both parties must divulge to each other, all the relevant information about themselves including their names, address, registration numbers and the driving licenses.

Interestingly in a case in 1981, it was determined that a person couldn't be convicted for leaving the scene of an accident where no one other then themselves was involved.

Cases where the police need not file an investigation

The law recognizes that not all accidents need a full investigation and that sometimes the damage is minor enough so as to not require further attention from the police. Such situations include incidents where the damage to either person's property doesn't exceed $1000 and no one has been hurt in the process. Also, if there is no motor vehicle involved in the accident, the police need not file an accident report if a person isn't seriously injured.

Hiring a competent Accident Attorney

If you find yourself in an accident, you can be sure you need an experienced attorney specializing in such cases. Without one, you can either be charged under serious sections of the law or fail to realize your rights. You must waste no time in contacting a Clawson & Clawson attorney as soon as the accident takes place. The more you delay, the greater the danger you will take an ill advised step. So don't hesitate. Call us for an initial consultation.