After being involved in a car crash, some drivers panic and flee the accident scene. However, in New York, leaving the scene of an accident, also known as a hit-and-run, is a serious offense. If you’ve been accused of a hit-and-run in New York, please read this to learn the penalties you can face and how an experienced Rockland County Criminal Defense Attorney can help you understand your rights.
What is a Hit-and-Run?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver who caused a collision leaves the scene without providing assistance and identifying themselves. In New York, accidents where there is only property damage require drivers to share their license and insurance information with the other parties involved. For an accident that involves injuries, the driver must contact the police, file a report, share insurance information, and exchange personal contact information with all parties, regardless of who is at fault. Drivers are required to stop immediately after an accident. Failure to do so can result in serious consequences including fines, license suspension, and jail time.
What Are the Consequences of a Hit-and-Run in New York?
If you leave the scene of a car accident in New York, you can face criminal charges. As such, it’s important to understand what penalties you can face if you are convicted. If you flee the scene of an accident that only results in property damage and leave without sharing information, you will face a traffic violation. If the accident results in an injury and you leave without exchanging information with the other parties involved, that is considered a misdemeanor. If catastrophic injuries occur, the offense of leaving the accident scene will be considered a Class E felony. If the accident results in a fatality, the hit-and-run will be classified as a Class D felony.
The penalties for fleeing an accident scene that results in minimal property damage and no injuries, you could be fined up to $250 and jailed for 15 days. If someone is seriously injured, you could be fined up to $5,000 and imprisoned for up to four years. Furthermore, if a hit-and-run accident results in a fatality, you could be fined up to $5,000 and face up to seven years of imprisonment.
Are There Any Defenses?
If you’ve been accused of a hit-and-run in New York, there may be legal defenses that can be asserted to challenge your charges. Working with a skilled attorney is critical, as they will examine the unique circumstances to determine the best course of action. Common defenses may include lack of knowledge, mistaken identity, mechanical failure, and fear of personal safety.
At The Law Office of Carl Spector, we are prepared to help you navigate these complicated matters. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can assist you.
