What Is the Punishment for Leaving the Scene of a Car Accident?

The criminal charge of leaving the scene of an accident can be either a misdemeanor or a felonyand is commonly referred to as hit-and-run.

Generally, if the accident involved no injuries, the crime is a second-degree misdemeanor and can lead to up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Furthermore, Florida statute 316.062 requires a person involved in an accident to provide his or her name and address, the registration number of the vehicle driven and, upon request, the driver’s license to the driver or occupant of the other vehicle involved in the accident.

If someone is injured in an accident, you are required to render reasonable assistance to the injured party. If you are charged with leaving the scene of an accident and any person has been injured, the crime may be deemed a felony, which will involve increased penalties.

Contact Attorneys Who Know the Criminal Justice System From the Inside

As former prosecutors, we have handled dozens of cases involving leaving the scene of an accident from the other side and, since then, have handled this charge in numerous cases as defense lawyers.

This means that if you are accused of leaving a road or parking lot accident, we know the challenges prosecutors face and can ask key questions. Were you driving your car, or was someone else possibly driving it? How will the state attorney prove you were driving the vehicle? Can witnesses testify that you were present during the accident? Did you intend to leave the scene or simply to stop in a safe location?

Whatever the case, it is important that you contact our firm soon, before you incriminate yourself and before prosecutors conclude their investigation.

There is hope following charges of hit and run. For a no-charge consultation and for experienced and committed legal help, contact our offices at 407-377-0150.