NEW JERSEY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Leaving The Scene Of An Accident Lawyers

The Significance of Staying at the Scene of an Accident and the Seriousness of Hit and Run Charges

Getting involved in a vehicular accident could be one of those situations that could quickly become overwhelming. It’s even scarier when you experience a hit and run situation or leave the scene before fulfilling your legal obligations. Simply put, leaving the scene of an accident is not just frowned upon – it is a severe offense.

What Does it Mean to Leave the Scene of an Accident?

The term “leaving the scene of an accident” refers to a scenario where a person hits property, another vehicle, or pedestrian while driving, then fails to stop at the scene or provide identification information afterward. In any jurisdiction, hit-and-run incidents are illegal and are considered seriously regardless of who caused the accident.

Legal Consequences for Leaving the Scene of an Accident

If found guilty, hit-and-run charges carry consequences that differ depending on how severe they are. Generally speaking, these charges could range from misdemeanor to felony charges. A guilty verdict for misdemeanor hit-and-run charge leads to significant fines, penalties such as community service, probation with restitution requirements and license suspension among others.

Key points to note when death or injury is involved include more severe penalties like imprisonment, monetary damages restitution among many others. It is important to note that fleeing the scene after an accident accrues penalty points on your driving record that insurance companies use during renewals; that could result in reduced coverage options and increased premiums.

What To Do If You’re Involved in An Accident

Being in any auto crash can trigger feelings of anxiety but dealing with them calmly will help you comply with your legal responsibility accurately. The following tips inform what you should do if you’re ever involved in a car accident:

Steps       Action Plan

Step 1
Pull over

Step 2
Always Check yourself, passengers and other drivers for injuries

Step 3
If anyone is hurt, instantly contact emergency services

Step 4
Exchange personal contact and insurance information with other involved drivers

Step 5
Capture photos of the scene; including vehicles involved and resulting damages

 Step 6
Lastly, alert local law enforcement authorities of the event

It is crucial to always remember that leaving the accident scene could result in severe legal penalties that’ll significantly impact your life. Regardless of how minor or serious the occurrence may seem, it’s to stay at the scene until relevant authorities arrive and provide all necessary information.

Why You Need a Hit-and-Run Lawyer

If you ever find yourself accused of committing a hit-and-run offense, it’s essential to seek help from an experienced lawyer right away.  

When you work with an attorney knowledgeable about the charges and potential consequences, they can evaluate your case, determine its merits (or lack thereof), explain its possible implications (fine amounts, community service requirements) or imprisonment likelihood based on previous cases like yours.

Consequently, a competent professional can work towards achieving the possible outcome for your hit-and-run charge. 

Conclusion

The magnitude of leaving an auto-crash scene can never be overemphasized. It is important to do everything legally required under such circumstances to avoid potentially life-changing legal punishments. Also, always remember that seeking help from experienced hit-and-run defense lawyers can aid in mitigation efforts.