If you’re involved in a traffic accident with a police officer, stay calm and treat the incident as you would any other auto accident. It’s intimidating, especially if you think that you may have had a hand in the wreck. Remember, though, that you still have the right to have a lawyer advocate for you after the wreck.
When the other party is part of a government agency, having a Denver car accident lawyer handle the matter becomes even more important, as filing a claim involves extra steps, including strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines.
What should you do after an accident with a police officer?
Make sure the accident is reported and that emergency services are involved if needed. Car crashes often produce “hidden injuries,” physical injuries that do not immediately present symptoms, such as whiplash or internal organ damage. Prompt medical attention protects your health.
The officer responding to the scene completes an official police accident report, which will be important to your accident claim.
Remember to avoid speculating about the cause of the wreck. You’ll be asked questions, but keep your answers brief and honest. Don’t volunteer extra information, and don’t offer explanations of what you think happened. Call a personal injury attorney in Denver as soon as you can, and follow their advice to the letter.
Will you get a ticket or go to jail for hitting a cop car by accident?
If you violated traffic laws or were driving recklessly and then crashed into a police car, yes, you may receive a citation. If you weren’t at fault, though, there may be no offense to cite you for. Even if you get a ticket, your lawyer may be able to help you fight it if it turns out that it was issued unlawfully.
Who pays for property damage if you crash into a police car?
Colorado’s car accident laws require the at-fault party to pay for damages (property damage, medical bills, and other losses) to the other driver involved. Even if the other car is an official police vehicle, your auto insurance will typically handle the claim, subject to your policy limits and coverage.
What if a police car hit you instead?
If you were hit by a police car, you may still be able to recover compensation. Claims involving government vehicles are governed by the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, which allows certain claims, like those involving the operation of a motor vehicle by a public employee, to proceed. These cases involve more procedural requirements and shorter deadlines than your average car accident claim.
Is there a deadline to file a claim after a crash with a police vehicle in Colorado?
Under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, you must file a formal notice of claim within 182 days of the incident. This deadline is significantly shorter than the standard three-year statute of limitations for most car accident claims in Colorado.
Talk to a Denver car accident lawyer after hitting a police car
Have you been involved in a collision with a law enforcement vehicle? Speaking with a lawyer early can help you understand your options and next steps. Call Zara Injury Law today at 866-823-8288 for a free consultation with our Denver car accident attorneys.