Car accidents can be overwhelming and traumatic experiences. In the moments immediately following an accident, it's crucial to stay calm and take the right steps to protect yourself, your passengers, and your legal rights. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do after a car accident in Colorado.
Emergency First
If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately. Your safety and the safety of others is the top priority.
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Move to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is still drivable and you're not seriously injured, move to the side of the road or a safe location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If your car is not drivable, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Step 2: Check for Injuries and Call for Help
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not be immediately apparent due to adrenaline. Call 911 if:
- Anyone is injured (even minor injuries)
- There is significant property damage
- The accident blocks traffic
- You suspect the other driver is under the influence
- There are any disputes about fault
Step 3: Document Everything
Documentation is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal action. Take photos and videos of:
Vehicle Damage
- All angles of both vehicles
- Close-up shots of damage
- License plates
- VIN numbers if visible
Scene Documentation
- Traffic signs and signals
- Road conditions
- Weather conditions
- Skid marks or debris
Step 4: Exchange Information
Exchange the following information with all parties involved:
- Names and contact information of all drivers and passengers
- Insurance information including company name, policy number, and contact details
- Vehicle information including make, model, year, and license plate numbers
- Driver's license numbers of all drivers involved
Step 5: Gather Witness Information
If there are witnesses to the accident, get their:
- Names and phone numbers
- Email addresses
- Statements about what they saw (if they're willing to provide them)
Step 6: File a Police Report
In Colorado, you must file a police report if:
- There are injuries or fatalities
- Property damage exceeds $1,000
- There is any dispute about fault
Even if the police don't come to the scene, you can file a report at the local police station or online in many Colorado jurisdictions.
Step 7: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of the accident. Provide them with:
- Basic facts about the accident
- Information about other parties involved
- Photos and documentation you've gathered
- Police report number (if available)
What NOT to Do After an Accident
Important Don'ts:
- Don't admit fault - Let the investigation determine liability
- Don't sign anything without consulting an attorney
- Don't give recorded statements to the other party's insurance company
- Don't post about the accident on social media
- Don't delay medical treatment - Some injuries worsen over time
When to Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
You should consider contacting a personal injury attorney if:
- You or anyone else was injured in the accident
- The other driver is disputing fault
- Insurance companies are being difficult or offering low settlements
- The accident involved multiple vehicles
- There are complex legal issues involved
- You're unsure about your rights or the claims process
Need Help After Your Accident?
If you've been injured in a car accident in Colorado, don't navigate the legal process alone. Contact Conduit Law for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your rights.