Should You File a Police Report After a Minor Accident in CO?

Car accidents, even minor ones, can be stressful and confusing. Many drivers may face this question at some point—should you report small accidents in Colorado? While it might seem unnecessary for a fender bender or a minor collision, filing a police report can have important legal, financial, and insurance implications. You should seek Colorado car accident help from a dedicated personal injury lawyer to recover damages from the negligent parties.  

Is it Mandatory to File a Police Report for Minor Accidents in Colorado?

Filing accident reports in Colorado is required by law if the accident results in:

• Injury or death: If anyone involved is physically injured or killed, the accident must be reported to law enforcement.
• Property damage exceeding $1,000: If the accident causes more than $1,000 in property damage, a police report must be filed.
• A hit-and-run: If the other driver flees the accident scene, you are legally obligated to report the accident.

If the accident is minor with no injuries and the resulting property damage is below $1,000, there is no legal requirement to file a police report in Colorado. However, even if the accident seems insignificant, filing a report can still be prudent.

Benefits of Filing a Police Report for a Minor Accident

Here are some reasons why you should consider filing an accident report even for seemingly small crashes:

Accurate Documentation

A police report provides an official record of the accident, which can serve as a neutral and reliable account of what occurred. The report will include details such as the time, date, location, weather conditions, the drivers involved, and any witness statements. This documentation can be helpful later if there are disputes about who was at fault or the extent of the damage.

Helps with Insurance Claims

When filing an insurance claim, most insurance companies will ask for a copy of the police report, even for minor accidents. Having an official report can help the claims process go more smoothly by providing the insurer with important details about the accident. In some cases, insurers may refuse to process your claim without a police report.

Establishes Fault

Determining who is at fault for an accident is vital, even for minor collisions. The report of a police officer can include observations about who violated traffic laws or other factors that contributed to the accident. This official statement can be valuable when filing insurance claims, especially if the other driver tries to shift blame onto you.

Protects Your Right to Compensation

Sometimes, a serious bodily injury from a car accident may not become apparent until days or weeks later. If you don’t file a police report and a minor accident escalates into a more serious claim, it may be difficult to prove the details of the incident. Having a report on file ensures you have documentation to rely on if legal or insurance disputes arise down the road.

When Should You Call the Police After a Minor Accident?

Here are a few specific instances when you should involve a law enforcement agency:

• There are injuries: Even if injuries seem minor, call the police so they can assess the situation and file a report. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
• The other driver is uncooperative: If the other driver refuses to share their insurance information, acts aggressively, or attempts to flee the scene, calling the police is crucial. They can help de-escalate the situation and ensure that a report is filed.
• You suspect DUI or reckless driving: If the other driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs or is driving recklessly, involving the police is necessary to document these behaviors.

In cases where police are not called to the scene, the parties involved may still file a report afterward.

How to File a Police Report for a Minor Accident in Colorado?

If the police do not respond to the scene of the accident, Colorado law allows you to file a report online or at a local police station.

Filing a Report Online

Colorado offers an online crash reporting system for drivers involved in minor accidents where no one was injured, and the damage is below $1,000. To file online:

• Go to the Colorado State Patrol website or the website of the local police department.
• Provide details of the accident, including date, time, location, and the vehicles involved.
• Upload any relevant photos or information that will help document the accident.

Once the car accident report is filed, you will receive a copy you can provide to your insurance company if needed.

Filing a Report at a Police Station

Alternatively, you can visit your local police department to file a report. This option is available for accidents where the police did not come to the scene. Bring your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and any information about the accident (photos, witness contact details, etc.). The police will help you fill out a formal auto accident report and give you a copy for your records.

Can a Lawyer Help with a Minor Accident Police Report?

Yes, a car accident lawyer can play an important role in the aftermath of any car crash, especially when it comes to dealing with police reports and insurance claims. Here are some ways a lawyer can assist you:

Obtaining the Police Report

If you don’t know how to access your police report, Denver car accident attorneys can request it on your behalf. They can also review the report to ensure that it accurately reflects the details of the accident.

Amending the Report

If there is incorrect or incomplete information in the police report, your lawyer can help you request an amendment. This process involves contacting the police department and providing additional evidence, such as witness statements, photos, medical evidence, and surveillance footage, to support your facts.

Using the Report to Support Your Claim

In any insurance claim or legal action, the police report serves as a key piece of evidence. A lawyer can use the report to negotiate with the insurance company and help ensure you receive fair compensation, even for minor damages or injuries.

Handling Complicated Insurance Issues

If the other driver is uninsured, underinsured, or disputes liability, a lawyer can help navigate the complexities of dealing with insurance companies and ensure you’re not unfairly denied compensation.

Types of Injuries in Minor Accidents Where the Symptoms May Appear Later 

In a seemingly minor accident, you may suffer injuries that aren’t immediately apparent. Therefore, you should promptly seek medical attention even if you’re feeling fine after the accident. At the same time, it’s a good idea to file a police report to cover the possibility that you might have a personal injury claim should symptoms appear. 

• Whiplash: Neck pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion may not appear until hours or days after a car accident.
• Concussions: Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and cognitive issues can emerge well after the impact.
• Internal Bleeding: Though not immediately visible, internal injuries can cause delayed symptoms such as abdominal pain, dizziness, or fatigue.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Bruising, swelling, or pain in muscles and ligaments often develop gradually after an accident.
• Back Injuries: Herniated discs or muscle strain in the spine may present pain or discomfort days later.

Get Legal Help from Our Dedicated Colorado Car Accident Lawyers 

If you have been injured in a car accident, Zobel Legal Group—led by proven car accident attorney Wade Zobel—can fight to maximize your compensation. We will find the evidence to prove liability and hold the negligent driver liable for maximum damages. With bilingual representation and a client-centered approach, we are here to support you every step of the way. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 720-434-6674 or contact us online.