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Colorado Hit and Run Resulting in Bodily Injury – Defense Lawyer
Leaving the scene of an accident that results in injury to another person is a serious misdemeanor traffic crime in Colorado. Even if the injury is minor, prosecutors and judges treat these cases harshly because another person was physically harmed.
The Law
Under C.R.S. 42-4-1601(2)(b), any driver involved in an accident resulting in bodily injury must immediately:
- Stop their vehicle at the scene,
- Remain until law enforcement arrives, and
- Provide information and render aid as required by law.
In addition, C.R.S. 42-4-1606 requires drivers to report the accident to law enforcement without unnecessary delay if the crash is not already under investigation. This reporting duty applies in all hit-and-run cases, including those involving bodily injury.
Failure to meet these obligations is a Class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense, punishable by 10 days to 1 year in jail and a fine of $300 to $1,000. A conviction also carries 12 points against your driver’s license — enough to trigger an automatic license suspension for adult drivers.
What the State Must Prove
To convict, the prosecution must show beyond a reasonable doubt that:
- You were the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident,
- Another person sustained bodily injury in the accident, and
- You failed to stop, remain, and meet your statutory duties under 42-4-1601.
Defense Strategies
Hit-and-run injury cases are not always straightforward. Common defense approaches may include:
- Identity – Can the state prove you were actually the driver?
- Accident Link – Can they prove your vehicle caused the accident that led to injury, rather than another factor?
- Constitutional Violations – Illegal stops, improper statements, or unlawful searches may weaken the state’s case.
- Evidentiary Gaps – Weak or conflicting witness statements, lack of surveillance, or flawed accident reconstruction can create reasonable doubt.
Collateral Consequences
Beyond the court penalties, a conviction can also mean:
- A permanent criminal record,
- Increased insurance rates or cancellation,
- Restitution orders if insurance coverage does not fully pay the injured party’s expenses,
- Employment and licensing issues in professions that require a clean driving or criminal history.
Why Experience Matters
Hit-and-run with injury cases carry both emotional weight and serious legal consequences. They require careful investigation, accident reconstruction when necessary, and a defense lawyer who knows how to scrutinize every detail of the state’s case.
With over 20 years of DUI and criminal traffic defense experience across Colorado, I personally handle each case from start to finish. My focus is protecting your rights, your license, and your future.
Call Me Today
If you’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving injury in Colorado, don’t wait. These cases move quickly, and the stakes are high. Call me directly at 303-355-5148 for a free consultation.
You’ll speak with me, Monte Robbins — not a call screener or junior associate.