Colorado Failure to Provide Information or Render Aid – Defense Lawyer

Colorado law requires every driver involved in an accident to stop, exchange information, and provide aid when necessary. Failing to do so — even in a relatively minor crash — can lead to criminal charges, DMV consequences, and a permanent mark on your record.

The Law

Under C.R.S. 42-4-1603, a driver involved in an accident must:

• Provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number,
• Show a driver’s license upon request, and
• Render reasonable assistance to anyone injured, including arranging transportation for medical care if necessary.

In addition, C.R.S. 42-4-1606 requires drivers to report the accident to law enforcement if no officer is present at the scene.

Failing to provide information, render aid, or report the crash is a crime. The level of the offense depends on whether the accident caused injury, death, or only property damage.

Potential Penalties

Penalties vary depending on the outcome of the accident:

• Property damage only: Typically a misdemeanor traffic offense with fines and DMV points.
• Bodily injury: A Class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense, carrying 10 days to 1 year in jail and fines of $300–$1,000.
• Serious bodily injury or death: Charged under the felony hit-and-run statutes, with penalties ranging from years in prison to six-figure fines.

Even at the misdemeanor level, convictions can trigger:

• Driver’s license points
• Insurance premium spikes
• Restitution orders for victims’ damages not covered by insurance

Defense Strategies

Failure-to-provide-information cases are often more complex than they look. The prosecution must prove you:

• Were the driver involved in the accident,
• Knew or reasonably should have known the crash occurred, and
• Intentionally failed to provide required information, render aid, or report the accident.

Possible defense angles include:

• Identity: Can the state prove you were actually the driver?
• Aid rendered: Did you reasonably provide assistance under the circumstances?
• Constitutional issues: Were your rights violated during the stop or investigation?

Why Experience Matters

Prosecutors often treat “failure to provide information or aid” cases as moral failings rather than legal disputes. That makes it critical to have an attorney who knows how to reframe the case, highlight mitigating circumstances, and challenge weak evidence.

With 20+ years of DUI and criminal traffic defense experience across Colorado, I know the statutes, the court procedures, and the strategies that can protect your record, your license, and your future.

Call Me Today

If you’ve been charged with Failure to Provide Information or Render Aid in Colorado, the stakes are too high to go it alone. Call me directly at 303-355-5148 for a free consultation.

You’ll speak with me, Monte Robbins — not an assistant or call screener.