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Colorado State Patrol: Hit-and-Run Crashes Decline as More Cases Are Solved


Description: The Colorado State Patrol reports hit-and-run crashes are declining while the percentage of solved cases is increasing. Troopers remind drivers that leaving the scene of a crash is a crime with serious legal consequences...

Hit-and-Run Crashes Go Down As Solved Cases Go Up

Troopers advise motorists to never leave the scene of a crash

(COLORADO) – Hit-and-run crashes are among the most damaging crashes that can occur, affecting not only vehicles, property, and pedestrians that are struck, but also the person who chooses to leave the scene.

“Drivers who leave a crash scene without sharing information or fail to wait for law enforcement to arrive are committing a crime,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Fear is often behind this choice, but that won’t be an adequate defense. Adopt the right mindset now that there is only one choice in a crash: staying put to ensure the situation is handled responsibly.”

The person who causes a property damage crash and stays at the scene could simply face a charge of Careless Driving or a lesser traffic infraction charge (both monetary fines), depending on the circumstances surrounding the crash. However, if the at-fault driver leaves the scene, they could face a multitude of additional charges that increase the “damage” caused. 

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the following charges/outcomes can be applied to a driver who leaves the scene of a crash:

  • Failed to give information and/or aid after damaging another vehicle - Misdemeanor - 12 points
  • Failed to remain at the scene after an accident involving injury - Misdemeanor - License Restraint (can be a felony depending on injury severity)
  • Failed to notify police of accident - Misdemeanor - 12 points 
  • Possible jail time
  • Vehicle Impoundment
  • License Revoked/Suspended/Restrained
  • Among many other misdemeanor and traffic infraction charges

“Crash investigations determine who is at fault. It is possible an involved driver isn’t responsible, but if you leave the scene, you have now made a poor decision that has significant legal consequences,” explained Col. Packard. “It's crucial that drivers stay at the scene, cooperate with law enforcement, and be a good citizen by getting emergency medical help for anyone who is hurt.”

Over the last five years, the number of hit-and-run crashes investigated by the Colorado State Patrol has fluctuated. However, after a peak year in 2023, these types of crashes have decreased, while the number of cases solved by troopers has increased. According to partial 2026 numbers (through June 30, 2026), this year is shaping up to be the highest percentage of solved cases since 2021.

The Colorado State Patrol is undertaking an ongoing effort to “change the culture” around a person's willingness to flee the scene of a crash. These crashes can leave severe financial, physical and emotional damage. Morality aside, a driver will always be better off staying at a crash scene, even if they face consequences. It will always be less than if they flee.