An Aurora man has been charged with Hit and Run (C.R.S. 42-4-1601), Driving Under the Influence (C.R.S. 42-4-1301), and Careless Driving (C.R.S. 42-4-1402) after allegedly hitting an Xcel Energy power line and leaving the scene of the accident. The man was seriously injured and was in the hospital when contacted by the Aurora Police. No other driver was involved or injured in the accident.
Although it seems irrational, in Colorado jurisdictions including Arapahoe, Broomfield and Adams County, it is a crime to leave the scene of an accident (Hit and Run) without reporting it, even if no other driver is involved and even if you think you need to leave to seek medical treatment. For example, this incident occurred around 5:00 in the morning, and it is likely that the driver believed it was best to just take himself to the hospital. It is unclear at this time what evidence law enforcement has to believe this man was driving under the influence. The trauma of getting in a serious accident can sometime manifest itself in the same ways drunk driving manifests.
Any conviction for a Hit and Run will assess 12 points against a person’s drivers license, and therefore suspend a person’s privilege to drive for a year. The Colorado law regarding Hit and Run accidents recently became more stringent, and those who are accused of such crimes now face possible felony penalties in jurisdictions like Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson County. If the accident results in “serious bodily injury” a person can be charged with a class 4 felony, and if it results in death a person can be charged with a class 3 felony. Because this man caused significant property damage, he will also likely be liable for restitution and be ordered to compensate Xcel for their losses.
If you have been accused in any Colorado jurisdiction of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Drugs, Hit and Run (a.k.a. Leaving the Scene), or any other traffic offense, call one of the experienced attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office. Don’t let an accident ruin your present and jeopardize your future. We have spent years defending the accused against felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic crimes in Colorado, and we can help you. So, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call us today at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.