It’s important to understand that a hit-and-run accusation is not something that should be taken lightly. If the police arrive and accuse you of this act, it’s not as simple are receiving a traffic ticket. The penalties you can face are intense and ask suck, it’s in your best interest to connect with Houston criminal defense attorneys who can assist you through these complicated matters. The following blog explores what you must know about this offense and the penalties you can face if convicted of leaving the scene of an accident.
What Constitutes a Hit-and-Run?
When you are involved in a collision, you are legally required to stop your vehicle and exchange information with the driver of the other vehicle or the owner of any property damaged. If the driver is not present, you must still leave your information on the vehicle.
If you do not stop after a collision, it constitutes a hit-and-run. Even if you do stop but then leave the scene before the police arrive or before you can exchange information, it also constitutes leaving the scene of the accident, even though you technically did stop.
What Consequences Can I Face if Charged?
The consequences you will face for a hit-and-run vary based on the circumstances of the accident.
If there are limited damages, you can face a Class C misdemeanor for leaving. However, the more severe the accident is, the harsher the penalties will be. For example, if you leave the scene of an accident that caused an injury, you can face a third-degree felony offense. This carries penalties of up to $10,000 and between two and ten years in prison. If the accident results in the death of another person, you’ll face a second-degree felony carrying up to 10,000 in fines and between two and ten years in prison.
It’s important to understand the hit-and-run charges will be in addition to any other applicable offenses, like reckless driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Is There Anything I Can Do to Fight the Charges?
If you are accused of a hit-and-run, it’s imperative to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible, as the penalties you can face for this offense can be incredibly severe.
Your attorney will examine our circumstances to determine the best defense for your situation. For example, your attorney can argue that you were simply trying to find a safe area to pull over, especially if you were on a busy highway or unsafe location. Similarly, if you sustained injuries, you may have panicked and driven away to find medical attention.
Regardless, these charges can be serious, which is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an attorney with the Gonzalez Law Group to discuss your circumstances. Our firm understands how complex these issues are, so we are dedicated to helping guide you through these matters. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
