If You Have an Accident

Colorado's snow, combined with our frenzy to get to the slopes, sometimes gets us into trouble, or more accurately, accidents.

In the event of an accident, you should stop and make sure everyone involved is OK. If anyone is injured, call an ambulance and give aid the best you can.

Otherwise, you should exchange the following information:

• Insurance information (policy number and insurance company).

• Telephone numbers.

• And don't forget your name!

Filing an Accident Report

Colorado law requires all accidents to be reported immediately. If a police officer responds to the scene and gets all information from the involved parties, the police report satisfies your responsibility. However, if a police officer isn't involved, you will have to report the accident either using an online accident report or download a traffic accident report.

Note that Colorado's online accident reporting system has a few requirements. To report online, each of the following must be true:

• There were no fatalities or injuries involved.

• The accident was not a hit and run (you can provide information from the other party involved).

• No public property was damaged.

• There was no suspicion of any party driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If any of the above statements are true, you should contact the law enforcement department in charge of the jurisdiction where your accident happened. They will provide further instructions to start an investigation.

Obtaining a Copy of an Accident Report

Colorado's DMV keeps accident reports for seven years. If you need an accident report, you can write to the DMV and include the following information:

• Name.

• Date of birth.

• Date of accident.

• Mailing address.

• Payment of $2.20. If you want the report certified, total payment is $2.70.

Note that the DMV takes about eight weeks to send a report to you.

Links to Forms

Sometimes your insurance company will need you to do some leg work if you've been in an accident. Below are some common forms you may need to fill out.

• Waiver of Security Financial Responsibility

• Financial Responsibility Requirements

• Release from Liability

• Affidavit of Financial Responsibility

• Promissory Note Contract