Denver Hit and Run – Unattended Vehicle or Other Property

Even when no one is hurt, being charged with a Denver hit and run defense case involving an unattended vehicle or property is a criminal offense under Colorado law.

What might seem like a simple fender-bender can quickly escalate into a serious Denver hit and run charge with potential jail time, fines, and a suspended license.

If you’re facing this situation, you need an experienced Denver traffic defense lawyer to protect your rights and guide you through the process.

The Law

Colorado statutes C.R.S. 42-4-1604 and C.R.S. 42-4-1606 require any driver involved in an accident with an unattended vehicle or other property to:

• Stop immediately at or near the scene;
• Make reasonable efforts to locate the owner; or
• Leave a written notice with your name, address, and vehicle registration; and
• Notify law enforcement without delay.

Failing to meet these obligations is a Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense.

Penalties in a Denver Hit and Run Defense Case

• Jail: 10 to 90 days
• Fines: $150 to $300
• Points: 12 points on your driver’s license — enough to trigger suspension
• Restitution: Repayment for damage not covered by insurance

Even without injury, a Denver hit and run conviction can damage your record and raise insurance rates for years.

What the Prosecution Must Prove

To convict, prosecutors must show beyond a reasonable doubt that:

1. You were the driver of a vehicle involved in the accident;
2. The accident caused damage to another’s unattended vehicle or property; and
3. You failed to stop, leave notice, and notify police as the law requires.

A skilled Denver hit and run defense lawyer will challenge every link in that chain of proof.

Defense Strategies

Common defense approaches include:

• Identity: Can the state prove you were driving?
• Knowledge: Did you reasonably know damage occurred?
• Compliance: Did you try to leave valid notice and report?
• Extent of Damage: Was there real, measurable property damage?

In some cases, insurance resolution or restitution can help negotiate a favorable outcome or even a dismissal.

Why Legal Help Matters

Even a minor scrape in a parking lot can become a Denver hit and run case if the required notice or report is missing.

With over 20 years of criminal traffic defense experience, I know how Denver prosecutors handle these charges and how to fight back effectively.

Call Me Today

If you’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving an unattended vehicle or property in Denver, don’t face it alone.

Call 303-355-5148 for a free consultation with Monte Robbins, an experienced Denver hit and run defense attorney.

You’ll speak directly with me — not a call screener or junior associate.