What Compensation Can I Receive After a Hit-and-Run?

A hit-and-run accident is an incident in which a driver involved in a car accident intentionally leaves the scene without providing their contact information, assisting the injured, or fulfilling their legal responsibilities, such as reporting the crash to authorities. This applies whether the accident involves another vehicle, a pedestrian, a cyclist, or property damage.

In many jurisdictions, leaving the scene of an accident, especially if it results in injury or death, is a criminal offense, often leading to serious legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, or imprisonment.

Since 2003, Colorado has operated as an “at-fault” car insurance state. This means that any driver involved in an accident involving injuries, lost wages or property damage can recover damages from the at-fault driver. However, collecting your deserved compensation can be difficult when the responsible driver gets away.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

In the event that the at-fault driver speeds away and you have no identifiable information for local law enforcement, you will have to file a claim with your own insurance carrier to recover losses. In the event of an accident caused by a driver with insufficient or complete lack of auto insurance, a victim can look to their uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UIM).

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage – Provides financial compensation for injuries and damages caused by a driver without car insurance.
• Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Provides financial protection should the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits be less than the victim’s total expenses.

Each insurance carrier is required to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage that every driver must object to in writing should they not want protection. In cases of hit-and-runs, a driver may be able to utilize their uninsured coverage to recover losses.

Other Insurance Coverages

A hit-and-run victim may also be able to file a claim under their personal injury protection (PIP) or collision coverages for their injury and vehicle damage claims, respectively. However, doing so may result in an increase in insurance premiums.

Colorado Hit-and-Run Attorneys

Uninsured motorist coverage is a beneficial tool to have on your insurance policy in the event of a hit-and-run accident. Even still, there are instances where insurance carriers deny or undervalue claims, leaving you with less compensation than you rightfully deserve. Since 2013, Boesen Law has successfully handled and litigated motor vehicle accident claims for their injured Denver car accident lawyer clients, securing the full, fair compensation and justice they are owed.

Contact us today at or fill out a form online today for a free initial consultation.