Colorado Law on Hit and Run / Miss and Run Accidents
In this month’s article, we’re going to discuss Colorado’s law on accidents caused by drivers who don’t stick around after a crash – as they are supposed to do.
Specifically, we’re going to talk about the laws regarding insurance coverage when someone causes an accident and leaves the scene of the crash.
Colorado’s Law on Hit & Run Accidents
Too often, we hear news stories about people injured by a reckless driver, only to hear that the driver leaves the accident scene before the police arrive. Drivers that behave like this are also not sticking around to trade auto insurance information with the crash victim. Unfortunately, the drivers that cause accidents and then run are rarely located by law enforcement.
What can an injured rider do when that happens?
Short of a successful investigation by law enforcement to find the at-fault driver, which typically requires the assistance of an independent witness or video footage that identifies the hit-and-run driver, most victims are left turning to their own insurance coverage to get compensated for their damages.
For those riders with uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, a claim can be made under their own insurance coverage in order to get compensated for their injuries. Many people think that an uninsured motorist claim can only be made if it is known that the driver that caused the accident does not have auto insurance, but Colorado law does not require that. Colorado law only requires that the victim be able to prove that another party caused the accident.
What about Miss and Run Accidents?
Colorado law also does not require proof of physical contact in order to show that another driver caused the accident. A claim for UM coverage can also be triggered when the victim must take evasive action because another driver was negligent and ended up crashing for that reason.
For example, suppose a driver started changing lanes into a lane occupied by a biker, but the driver noticed at the last second that the bike was there and pulled back into the driver’s original lane. If the biker—trying to avoid the oncoming driver—swerved and crashed the bike or swerved and crashed into another object, UM insurance would still apply.
Knowing what type of insurance applies in specific situations can make the difference between feeling out of luck or getting the benefits of the coverage you paid for to help you recover what you lost.
Insurance Coverage Investigation
Suppose you’re the victim of a crash, and the negligent driver flees the scene and cannot be found. In that case, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can investigate every source of UM insurance to find the coverage necessary to cover your damages.
Even if you can find the at-fault driver but ultimately find that the at-fault driver does not have any auto insurance or does not have enough to pay for all of your injuries, all is not lost. If you have access to UM coverage, you can still get compensated. It’s important to know that your insurance carrier cannot raise your insurance premium simply because you make a UM claim.
So, there are three lessons here:
- Get UM coverage on your motorcycle or car’s insurance policy.
- If you’re injured by a driver in a hit-and-run or miss-and-run accident, you can still get compensated for your injuries.
- Working with a lawyer can also help you exercise your rights and retain fair recovery payment, as your attorney can simplify the process on your behalf and maximize the compensation you qualify to receive.
For more information about what steps to take next, don’t hesitate to contact one of the lawyers at Mintz Law Firm. We would be happy to discuss your case and walk you through the process when you retain our services.
How Can a Lawyer Support You With Your Hit-and-Run or Miss-and-Run Case?
Whenever you get into legal matters, we strongly recommend you work with a qualified and experienced lawyer for help. Your car accident lawyer can support you in numerous ways, whether you know the identity of the at-fault party or not. An attorney can lead or join investigations, collect and analyze evidence, brainstorm helpful and tailored next steps, and possibly identify responsible individuals.
While some people may find self-representation manageable, we strongly suggest you refrain from representing yourself during legal matters. You may accidentally misrepresent yourself and lose compensation you would otherwise qualify to receive. Alternatively, your lawyer can ensure you are represented as favorably and fairly as possible, allowing you to collect the payments you’re eligible for. We recommend you contact a lawyer, such as one from Mintz Law Firm, for assistance with your case as soon as possible. This can further improve your odds of legal success.
Injured in a Car Accident? The Lawyers From Mintz Law Firm Can Help You Receive Fair Compensation
If you suffer injuries after a car accident, including a hit-and-run or miss-and-run, you don’t need to navigate the legal system alone. The Mintz Law Firm car accident lawyers can assist you through this challenging time, including speaking on your behalf, completing and filing paperwork, and leveling the playing field against other parties and representatives. We have a long history and track record of bringing success to our clients, and we can do the same for you.
Our team is dedicated to treating victims and survivors with compassion and care, so please don’t hesitate to contact us at your earliest convenience. When you connect with us, you can schedule a free consultation with one of our trustworthy and talented attorneys. Call us at (303) 462-2999 or complete the contact form on our website, whichever you prefer or is easiest for you.