Being in a car accident is stressful enough. But did you know a driver involved in an accident has certain duties they must fulfill before they leave the accident scene?
Sometimes drivers don’t even realize they’ve been in an accident. Other times, panic sets in and they leave the scene before exchanging the required information.
If the accident results in damage to property over $1000 or it’s reasonably possible that someone may have been injured in the accident, leaving the scene of an accident prematurely could result in a charge of Felony Hit and Run.
A Class 5 Felony is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than one year nor more than 10 years, or in the discretion of the jury or the court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.
If you are charged with Felony Hit and Run, you’ll need to consider the facts of your case. Did you stop your vehicle after the accident? If so, when? If not, what were the circumstances? What was the extent of the vehicle damage? Were you or anyone else injured in the accident?
Experience matters. You want an attorney who handles Felony Hit and Run cases to help you answer these questions. A trained lawyer is the best person to help you explore possible issues and explain what may be the best to approach your case. It’s vitally important that you understand your legal rights and options.
We can guide you through that process. You don’t have to do this alone.
I was going to call the police to report the accident, but the police arrested me before I could report it. Can I still be charged with Felony Hit and Run?
Yes. Even if you intended to later report the accident, you can still be charged with Felony Hit and Run.