Hit-and-run crashes are common in most of the US cities. The Colorado State Patrol shared that there has been an increase in hit-and-run crashes throughout the state. The numbers have increased by 22% during the first quarter of 2023.
In April 2024, KKTV.com reported a crash in Colorado Springs that took place at Union and Ranch Lanes. The police reported that a white van attempted to turn from north Union left to the Ranch and a black Jeep crashed into it. There was a third car close by that got caught in a collision as well. The driver escaped from the scene and one person with minor injuries had to be hospitalized.
Hit-and-run casualties lead to severe injuries and emotional trauma. This article will focus on how to respond to such a situation in Colorado Springs.
Hit-and-Run Laws in Colorado
The hit-and-run statute in Colorado is highly extensive compared to other states. The punishment the at-fault party receives is decided based on the severity of their crime. The following pointers are essential to know:
- Property damage in such a crash is called a class 2 misdemeanor. The accused driver might need to stay in jail for 90 days or pay a fine of $300.
- The non-serious injuries can be termed as class 1 misdemeanors. The jail time for this can be a year, and the fine can rise to $1,000.
- Any serious injury can be called a felony and have a six-year jail sentence. The fines are as high as $500,000.
- A fatal hit-and-run can be taken as a felony and can come with a 12-year jail term and a fine of up to $750,000.
Also, the at-fault party’s license can be revoked or suspended, which will affect their car insurance premium for years.
Things To Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Almost every person after a hit-and-run accident feels that they should consult a Colorado Springs personal injury attorney. While that is an essential step, there are a few other actions to implement. They are:
Stay Put and Dial 911
Right after the crash, you shouldn’t move from the scene and call 911. Let the dispatcher know about your injury and if there’s anyone else who has been hurt, too. Share your contact details with the dispatcher beforehand so that they can reach you if you get disconnected. Provide as much data as you have about the vehicle that hit you and escaped from the crash scene.
Make Notes About the Vehicle and Driver
It is natural to feel slightly lost and confused right after the crash. Chances are, it will take a few minutes to regain your alertness. But don’t waste time after that. List every detail that you can recall about the car and the driver who hit you. In case you aren’t able to type, make voice notes on your phone.
It always helps when you have vivid details about the at-fault motorist. You can also note down the vehicle’s earlier travel direction, more so if it rounded a curve. If you remember the final or first few digits of the license plate number, write it down immediately. Also, add details about the car type, such as pickup trucks, vans, SUVs, or luxury sedans.
Also Read: Strategies for Coping with Long-Term Disabilities Caused by a Car Accident
Once this gets done, take pictures of your injuries and vehicle damage. A before-and-after representation of your injuries and car damage will establish the suffering that you’ve undergone.
Get Medical Help At the Earliest
Never say no to any medical aid you receive on the accident scene. You might have suffered major traumas, like internal bleeding or brain damage, and not realize it. Once you face a collision, the panic and shock might obscure any damage symptoms.
If you aren’t able to visit a hospital immediately, get a medical examination done later that day. Get in touch with your primary care physician. Even if you have any mild symptoms, share them with your doctor. Also, let them know that you’ve encountered a hit-and-run crash so that they know what to check for.
If you delay or refuse a medical check-up, it will hamper your injury claim. It will enable the insurance adjusters to convince you that your bruises and injuries are an outcome of another accident.
Consult a Lawyer
Now that you’ve received medical help, undergone a medical exam, dialed 911, and made note of vital facts at the crash scene, consult a lawyer. It’s because now you have the details that a lawyer needs to understand your case and provide you with the best solution.
Springs Law Group states that once you share these details, your lawyer will determine whether you are eligible for a lawsuit. They will study the evidence you shared as medical reports, images of your injury and vehicle damage, passenger witness reports, and other healthcare data, and develop a solid case. While doing that, if they need other details, they ask you or use their sources to get it.
During the process of legal recourse, your lawyer also speaks with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They use their years of experience and excellent negotiation skills to obtain fair compensation for you. Also, they provide guidance that helps you stay calm after such a dangerous crash. It further helps you to fulfill the legal formalities with precision.
In conclusion, Colorado Springs has its own share of hit-and-run crashes. These crashes don’t just lead to physical injuries, but also emotional trauma. Not everyone would know how to tackle such a crisis. Therefore, if you face such an accident despite maintaining caution, the steps mentioned above can help.
