How To Beat A Leaving The Scene Of An Accident Ticket
The clash of metal, the shatter of glass, and a moment of shock. Adrenaline rushes in as you find yourself causing an accident, you panic and leave the scene.
The most pressing question on your mind: “How to beat a leaving the scene of an accident ticket”. This article will help you in this tricky situation
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Examples Of A Hit And Run
According to traffic law, the phrase “leaving the scene” doesn’t always have its literal meaning. It could also mean that you failed to report or provide assistance after getting involved in an accident, even if you didn’t “leave” the scene.
Any type of negligence towards such an event can be classified as a “hit and run”.
What Should You Be Doing? Dealing With Accident Ticket
The ideal situation would want you to exchange information with the other party involved in the accident. But in this unfortunate situation, here’s the approach you should be taking to avoid the traffic ticket and other punishments.
Compose Yourself
First, find a safe place to stop and take deep breaths. Panic can cloud judgment, but decisions made in haste can have long-term consequences.
Check if you’re hurt or bleeding, get immediate medical attention if that is to be the case.
Return To The Accident Scene
If you can, go back to the scene of the accident as soon as possible.
Your willingness to return and stay at the scene can support your argument if the case goes to court, as it shows a display of responsibility and remorse.
Contact The Police
If returning to the motor vehicle accident isn’t possible, immediately contact the police to report the accident. Provide them with all personal details like contact information and insurance information, and detail of the incident and your reasons for leaving the scene.
It’s always better to be truthful, as any detected lies can and will be used against you.
Seek Legal Counsel
Before you engage in detailed discussions with law enforcement or insurance companies, it’s imperative to consult with a legal professional. NY Ticket Defenders offers free consultation and legal advice so check them out.
It is your right to consult a criminal defense attorney and a traffic ticket lawyer before giving a formal statement.
Avoid Public Discussions
Refrain from discussing the details of the accident or the case on social media or with anyone other than your lawyer. Public statements can be used against you and may complicate your defense.
Attend Required Court Appearances
If the case goes to court, then it’s imperative you attend all meetings. It shows your willingness to take accountability. Avoid giving out unnecessary information and just stick to the facts.
Moreover, if you skip it, then it is likely the judge will assume you’re hiding something more.
Learn From The Experience
Use this incident as a learning opportunity. Consider defensive driving courses and take time to understand why you reacted the way you did, so you can handle situations more effectively in the future.
Possible Penalties & Criminal Charges For Leaving The Scene Of An Accident
This is obviously not just a simple traffic violation, it carries severe penalties depending on the damage.
So, just to give you an idea, here’s what to expect if you don’t take accountability by choosing not to follow the previous section.
A Criminal Record
Fleeing the scene can result in a permanent criminal record. A criminal offense can affect your ability to secure employment, especially in fields that require a clean driving or criminal history.
A criminal record can also hamper your ability to obtain professional licenses, secure housing, and the ability to access certain financial services.
License Suspension
Depending on the severity of the accident, this could either be a temporary suspension or a full fledged termination. They’ll look at your driving record, to see any other instances where you’ve broken the traffic law.
Losing your license can have significant impact on your life, making commute and the nature of essential errands difficult.
Heavy Fines
You can expect a range of $250 to $1000 for non serious injuries, depending on the presses charged by the owner of the vehicle. But if it is something serious where the accident involves fatalities, the bill can go up till $5000.
These fines are the least of your worries though, as there can be potential jail time.
Jail Time
You’re most likely going to end up in jail if the situation was bad. Expect a year or a half if it resulted in significant property damage, this would be labeled as misdemeanor. For example the motor vehicle or the pavement being damaged.
In the case of personal injuries and fatalities, you can be locked up for several years.
Going to jail not only puts a pause to your life, but also disrupts your personal and professional relationships.
Emotional & Psychological Impact
Dealing with this event can lead to heavy emotional stress, for example PTSD.
You’ll forever be living in guilt and regret, worsening your mental state and the relationships you have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the answers to some questions which are often asked, it’s possible that you have the same ones in mind.
Q: Is it possible to not be tracked after a hit-and-run?
It’s immoral and also risky to take this action. The technology they have is much more advanced than you think, CCTV exists in most places.
Q: What if I don’t have my own personal lawyer?
It’s always better to have one but it’s not a huge issue if you don’t. It’s very likely that you’ll be provided with a competent one for the case.
Q: Does this act warrant a capital punishment?
Capital punishment is only given on very serious offenses like first degree murder and terrorism.
The maximum offense on a hit and run would be a hefty prison sentence.
