Yes, a hit and run accident that causes death or serious physical injury is considered a felony. The charges might vary depending on the circumstances of the accident. However, a hit and run accident is considered a class 2 felony where there is death or serious physical injury.If the defendant fled the scene of the crime, but didn’t cause the accident in the first place, he/she will be charged with a class 3 felony.
On the other hand, a class 5 felony is charged if the hit and run doesn’t cause serious physical injury or death. Note that, if you’re involved in any vehicular accident with property damage, after which you flee the scene, you can be charged with class 3 misdemeanor.
In addition to the criminal penalties such as jail or prison time and fines, the driver’s license can be suspended or revoked.
First, provide your full name, address and registration to the responding police officer or to the other driver. If the other driver requests to see your driver’s license, you’re supposed to do so. If the other driver gets serious injuries from the accident that requires first aid, you need to administer it and call for assistance. As mentioned above, failure to do any of these duties can, and often does, result in criminal sanctions.
If you don’t stop immediately after an accident, you should return to the scene as soon as possible. After a hit and run accident, you need to find a good legal team for your case. That way, you can explore possible defenses that will reduce your charges considerably.
You need to find an experienced attorney to handle your hit and run case, if you’re involved in one that causes serious harm or death to any third parties. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a good attorney to handle your case.
The basic rule of any vehicular accident is one must never flee the scene. Robert personally answers his own telephone and he will personally handle your case. Contact Robert A. Dodell, Attorney at Law, directly by email or by calling 480-860-4321 now for a free initial consultation.