What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?

If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM), your own policy may cover your damages. Colorado requires insurance companies to offer UM/UIM coverage, though it's not mandatory to purchase.

How long do I have to file a police report in Denver?

You should report the accident immediately if there are injuries. For property damage only, report as soon as possible. Colorado law requires reporting accidents with injury or damage over $1,000 within 60 days.

Can I still file a claim if I didn't call the police?

Yes, you can still file a claim without a police report, though it may be more challenging. Document as much as you can and contact an attorney who can help gather evidence.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Denver?

Brad Freedberg

Personal Injury Attorney

The Critical First Steps After a Denver Car Accident

The moments following a car accident are crucial for your health, safety, and any future legal claims. Here's exactly what you need to do:

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Check yourself and passengers for injuries

If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately

Turn on hazard lights

Move to a safe location if the vehicle is operable and it's safe to do so

DO NOT leave the scene

Step 2: Call 911
In Colorado, you must report accidents involving:

Any injury or death

Property damage exceeding $1,000

Impaired drivers

A police report creates an official record that can be valuable for your claim.

Step 3: Exchange Information
Collect from all drivers involved:

Full name and contact information

Insurance company and policy number

Driver's license number

License plate number

Vehicle make, model, and color

Step 4: Document Everything

Use your smartphone to capture:

Damage to all vehicles from multiple angles

The accident scene, including road conditions

Traffic signs and signals

Weather conditions

Any visible injuries

Skid marks or debris

Step 5: Get Witness Information

If anyone saw the accident:

Get their name and phone number

Ask if they'd be willing to provide a statement

Note their location relative to the accident

Step 6: Seek Medical Attention
This is critical. Some injuries don't show symptoms immediately:

Whiplash can take hours or days to appear

Internal bleeding may not be obvious

Traumatic brain injuries can have delayed symptoms

Seeing a doctor creates medical documentation connecting your injuries to the accident.

Step 7: Report to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company promptly, but:

Stick to the basic facts

Don't speculate about fault

Don't downplay your injuries

Step 8: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Before speaking with the other driver's insurance company, consult an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney can:

Protect you from common insurance tactics

Ensure you don't say anything that hurts your case

Help you understand the true value of your claim

Colorado-Specific Requirements

Reporting Deadline: Accidents with injury or significant damage must be reported to the DMV within 60 days

Insurance Minimums: Colorado requires $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury liability

Statute of Limitations: You have 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit

Free Case Evaluation
Don't navigate this alone. Contact Brad Freedberg at (303) 892-0900 for a free, confidential consultation. We'll review your case and explain your options—with no obligation and no fee unless we win.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Never admit fault at the scene, even if you think you might be partially responsible. Fault determination is complex and involves factors you may not be aware of. Simply exchange information and let the investigation determine liability.

Get a Free Case Evaluation

Have questions about your specific situation? Brad Freedberg offers free, confidential consultations. Call now or fill out our contact form.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Denver?

The Critical First Steps After a Denver Car Accident The moments following a car accident are crucial for your health, safety, and any future legal claims. Here's exactly what you need to do:

Step 1: Ensure Safety First Check yourself and passengers for injuries If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately Turn on hazard lights Move to a safe location if the vehicle is operable and it's safe to do so DO NOT leave the scene

Step 2: Call 911In Colorado, you must report accidents involving: Any injury or death Property damage exceeding $1,000 Impaired drivers A police report creates an official record that can be valuable for your claim.

Step 3: Exchange InformationCollect from all drivers involved: Full name and contact information Insurance company and policy number Driver's license number License plate number Vehicle make, model, and color

Step 4: Document Everything Use your smartphone to capture: Damage to all vehicles from multiple angles The accident scene, including road conditions Traffic signs and signals Weather conditions Any visible injuries Skid marks or debris

Step 5: Get Witness Information If anyone saw the accident: Get their name and phone number Ask if they'd be willing to provide a statement Note their location relative to the accident

Step 7: Report to Your Insurance CompanyNotify your insurance company promptly, but: Stick to the basic facts Don't speculate about fault Don't downplay your injuries

Colorado-Specific Requirements Reporting Deadline: Accidents with injury or significant damage must be reported to the DMV within 60 days Insurance Minimums: Colorado requires $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury liability Statute of Limitations: You have 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit

Free Case EvaluationDon't navigate this alone. Contact Brad Freedberg at (303) 892-0900 for a free, confidential consultation. We'll review your case and explain your options—with no obligation and no fee unless we win.