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Your Guide to Hit and Run Laws in Jefferson County

Posted by Kyle B. Sawyer | Jul 05, 2020 | 0 Comments

Hit and run laws in Jefferson County, Colorado prohibit drivers from leaving the scene of traffic accidents. These actions can be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the extent of injury to others. Jail time, fines, and suspension of your driver's license can all result from a conviction of hit and run in Colorado. There are even strict ramifications for leaving the scene after only damaging property as well. Consult an experienced hit and run attorney today if you're being accused of leaving the scene of an accident in Colorado.

Jefferson County Hit and Run Laws

There are important steps to remember when a collision occurs on the highway or in your neighborhood. Car accidents can be traumatic incidents and drivers in Lakewood, Arvada, and Golden often don't make the best choices in these moments. If you hit an occupied vehicle, traffic laws require you to:

  • remain at the scene,
  • give anyone injured reasonable assistance,
  • provide your name, address, and vehicle registration number,
  • AND file an accident report with law enforcement if police weren't at the scene

There are very few exceptions to these responsibilities. Leaving to report the accident to police or due to your need of immediate medical attention are sometimes permitted.

If you hit an unoccupied vehicle or someone's property, other requirements exist. When damage occurs, the driver must try to locate and notify the owner or leave a note in an obvious place. This message needs to include your name, address, and vehicle registration number. Additionally, drivers still need to report the accident to police and return to the scene if asked.

When is Hit and Run a Felony in Colorado?

Hit and run is a misdemeanor in Jefferson County in the following situations:

  • leaving the scene after damaging property,
  • hitting an unattended vehicle,
  • OR causing non-serious injuries

Penalties in these cases can include up to 12 months in county jail, a maximum fine of $1,000, and 12 points against your driving record. However, hit and run becomes a felony when it results in serious bodily injury or death. Conviction can lead to years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and six-figure fines.

Best Traffic Attorney in Jefferson County

If you're searching for the best traffic attorney in Jefferson County, look no further than Sawyer Legal Group, LLC. Strategic, experienced representation is crucial in cases of leaving the scene of a car accident. Perhaps you didn't realize anyone was hurt or you left due to the severity of your own injuries. That said, contact our law office for a free consultation. We will carefully look over your hit and run case, as well as suggest next steps in your defense. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make getting a skilled lawyer possible in uncertain times.

If you or someone you know is facing a hit and run allegation in Colorado, be smart. Contact the highly-rated criminal defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Taras Makarenko

About the Author

Kyle B. Sawyer

I have a passion for defending others in criminal cases. I am able to empathize with my clients and understand their emotions and fears. I have a unique perspective on the criminal justice system and I understand what it feels like to be wrongly accused of a crime.

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If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in the Denver area, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the top criminal defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future. Request a Free Consultation

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