What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

Getting struck by another vehicle is bad enough, but realizing the other driver fled the scene adds stress, frustration, and confusion. So, what to do after a hit-and-run? First, stay calm and move to a safe location. Then call 911, document everything you can about the fleeing vehicle, speak to witnesses, and report the crash to the police.

At Cannon Law, our Fort Collins car accident attorney helps victims across Colorado take these steps and more, from the moment the accident happens to the point you’re ready to take legal action.

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What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without stopping to provide information or help. This includes crashes involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or property. 

In Colorado, this behavior is criminal, and drivers are legally required to stay at the scene, exchange details, and report the accident if injuries or damage occur.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run

In Colorado, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, not just a civil violation. Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1602 mandates that any driver involved in a crash must immediately stop at the scene or as close to it as safely possible. The law also requires that the driver remain at the site until all legal duties are fulfilled, such as providing identification and assisting anyone injured.

There are only limited exceptions allowed under the statute, such as when the driver leaves temporarily to notify law enforcement or seek emergency medical care. In such cases, they must return to the scene as soon as possible and cooperate with authorities. 

Failing to do so can result in a Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense, even if no one was seriously injured. If you’re the victim, quick action strengthens your case.

Here’s what you need to do immediately after a hit and run:

• Move to Safety: Pull over if your vehicle can still operate.
• Call 911: Get help and document the crash through law enforcement.
• Don’t Chase the Driver: It’s unsafe and unnecessary.
• Look for Witnesses: Their details can be key.
• Take Photos: Damage, road conditions, and license plate fragments.

What Information Should You Collect?

Even if the other driver flees, you can still build a strong case by documenting key details. Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1606 requires drivers to report the crash and provide specific information. Be sure to collect the following:

• The time and location of the accident
• The make, model, and color of the fleeing vehicle
• Any license plate numbers, even partial
• Your vehicle’s damage and position
• Witness statements and contact info
• Surveillance camera sources nearby
• Your own recollection of events

This information will be vital when determining what to do after a hit-and-run and working with law enforcement, insurance companies, or a car accident attorney.

Reporting the Accident

Always report a hit and run to the police, even if the damage appears minor. A report helps document the facts and becomes a key part of your insurance claim or legal action. When you contact law enforcement, you should do this:

• Describe the vehicle and how the accident occurred
• Provide witness names and photo evidence
• Cooperate fully and request a copy of the police report

Knowing what to do after a hit and run and timely reporting the situation demonstrates that you acted responsibly, which may support your claim under your insurance policy or in court.

Will Insurance Cover a Hit-and-Run?

Yes, however, it depends on your coverage. In Colorado, hit-and-run victims can pursue compensation through their own policies in many cases. Here’s how:

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: This typically applies when the at-fault driver is unidentified or has no insurance.
• Collision Coverage: Pays for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of who caused the accident.
• Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): Covers your medical expenses, up to policy limits, regardless of fault.

Keep in mind that filing a police report is often required to pursue an insurance claim after a hit and run. Many insurance companies also enforce strict notification deadlines, so it’s important to contact your provider as soon as possible. Additionally, claims may be denied if you don’t provide adequate documentation, such as evidence from the scene or a copy of the official report.

Contact a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer

Contact Cannon Law today at 970-471-7170for a free consultation. Our legal team is here to guide you through what to do after a hit and run, answer your questions, and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.