Colorado Hit and Run – Unattended Vehicle or Other Property Defense Lawyer

Even when no one is hurt, leaving the scene after striking another vehicle or damaging property in Colorado is a criminal offense. What might feel like a “fender-bender” can quickly become a case with jail time, fines, points on your license, and a permanent record.

The Law

Colorado combines these duties under C.R.S. 42-4-1604 and C.R.S. 42-4-1606. If you’re involved in an accident that damages an unattended vehicle or other property (like a fence, sign, mailbox, or building), you must:

• Stop immediately at or near the scene,
• Make reasonable efforts to locate the owner, or
• Leave a written notice in a conspicuous place with your name, address, and vehicle registration, and
• Notify law enforcement “forthwith” (without unnecessary delay).

Failing to do these things is a Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense.

Penalties

• Jail: 10 to 90 days in county jail.
• Fines: $150 to $300.
• Points: 12 points on your Colorado driver’s license — enough to trigger a suspension for most drivers.
• Restitution: Courts may order repayment for property damage not covered by insurance.

What the State Must Prove

To convict under 42-4-1604, prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

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

Defense Strategies

Every case is fact-specific. Possible defenses may include:

• Identity – Can the state prove you were the driver at the time of damage?
• Knowledge – Did you reasonably know property was damaged? (The state must show actual or constructive knowledge.)
• Compliance – Did you attempt to leave valid notice and report to police?
• Extent of Damage – Was there real damage, or is it exaggerated?

Why Legal Help Matters

Even a parking lot scrape can spiral into a criminal hit-and-run case if the legal duties aren’t followed exactly. A conviction can risk your license, raise insurance premiums, and create a criminal record that follows you.

Call Me Today

If you’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving an unattended vehicle or other property, call me directly at 303-355-5148 for a free consultation.

You’ll speak with me, Monte Robbins — not a junior associate or call screener.