Car accidents can be overwhelming experiences, leaving you unsure of your next steps. It’s easy to overlook the important step of reporting an auto accident under Colorado law. Not reporting your car accident in Denver, Colorado can have serious consequences both legally and financially. If you were injured in the crash, the absence of a crash report can create problems for you and your car accident lawyer to pursue fair compensation.
Reporting a Car Accident in Denver
In the event of a car accident in Denver, it’s crucial to report it promptly to the authorities. Failure to do so can lead to significant legal and financial consequences down the line. Colorado law mandates that drivers report accidents to law enforcement if they involve:
- Property damage
- Bodily injury
- Death
You can report a collision by dialing 911, visiting the nearest police station, or contacting the highway patrol. Alternatively, you may file an accident report online through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles. However, filing through the DMV may not provide the same level of thoroughness as a police report.
Importance of Reporting Your Crash
Facilitating Investigation
Reporting the accident allows law enforcement to assess the scene thoroughly and document crucial details. The official accident report includes essential information such as the date, time, statements from involved parties and witnesses, and contact information. By calling 911 on the scene of the collision, you may have a police officer respond to create an official report. The police officer may obtain key information, witness names and statements, photos, bodycam video, contact info and insurance for the parties and more.
Evidence for Legal Claims
Your official accident report serves as valuable evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury or property damage claim. It provides a clear account of the events, making it difficult for the other party to refute liability. A traffic accident report provides important details that you may not have obtained yourself at the scene of your car accident. If an officer responded at the scene, their observations and on-site investigation provides you with neutral evidence from the officer.
Protection Against False Claims
Having an official report can safeguard you against unjust claims from other drivers, minimizing potential financial repercussions. In our lawyers’ experience, we know that some drivers will change facts to avoid liability or to blame you for the accident. This simple step can help protect you from false claims and erroneous statements of how the accident occurred.
Consequences of Not Reporting a Car Accident
Failure to report an accident promptly can complicate insurance claims, as there’s no official record of the incident. Insurers may deny claims or question the validity of injuries without a police report. Our car accident attorneys frequently run into this challenge with insurance claims. Without a police report the insurance adjusters may dispute whether the accident occurred or whether it involved their policyholder. Other drivers involved in the accident may report a favorable explanation to their insurer to avoid liability. Their insurance company will be all too happy to accept a tale that avoids payment on a claim.
Neglecting to report an accident is a serious offense, classified as a class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense in Colorado. It can result in criminal penalties such as fines and jail time. In some cases, not reporting an accident may be construed as a hit-and-run, which carries severe legal consequences. Fleeing the scene without exchanging information or assisting injured parties can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges. An innocent oversight can turn into severe criminal consequences in addition to hurting your ability to recover fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Speak with our experienced car accident lawyers about reporting a collision in Denver, Colorado
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Denver, it’s imperative to report the accident and seek legal assistance promptly. Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal process effectively. At Front Range Injury Attorneys, our experienced accident attorneys can help you navigate this difficult time and protect your legal rights.
Don’t hesitate to report a car accident and seek legal guidance to ensure your rights are protected and your best interests are represented. Contact our law firm today to speak with a lawyer in a free consultation.
