If the driver of a car is driving carelessly, recklessly or aggressively, you should make an effort to get the license plate number and description of the vehicle in order to report the driver to the police.  If you are unharmed as a result of the conduct of the operator of the car, you have no practical civil remedy.  It is possible that the police would investigate further and ultimately turn the matter over to the district attorney.  Certainly, if a driver is habitually buzzing cyclists, the likelihood of a prosecution would increase. 

If the driver’s conduct causes you to crash and causes damage to your property or physical injuries, you may be entitled to recover damages.  Again, you should make every effort to get a complete description of the vehicle, including the license plate number if possible.  You should report the matter to the police and to your Uninsured Motorist carrier.  Most people carry UM coverage on their automobile insurance policy.  If you do not own a car, but you live in a household with a relative who does, it is possible you would be eligible for insurance benefits under that person’s policy.

Now that Colorado is no longer a “no fault” state, the importance of carrying health insurance and uninsured motorist insurance coverage has increased.  Ultimately, if the identity of the driver of the car that ran you off the road is learned, you could proceed in a claim against that individual and/or his insurer.

Learn more about the Star CSP hotline to report aggressive driving 

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