Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Indiana, PA

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s essential to understand the legal obligations associated with such incidents. Pennsylvania law requires all drivers to provide their contact and insurance information to the other party involved. Failing to do so can result in charges of ‘hit and run,’ which carry serious legal and financial penalties. While leaving the scene of an accident can create significant consequences, it’s equally crucial to explore your defense options if you find yourself facing these charges. Seeking the help of an experienced criminal lawyer can be the key to protecting your rights and minimizing potential penalties.

Legal Obligations in Pennsylvania

Under Pennsylvania law, if you’re involved in a car crash, here’s what you’re legally required to do:

• Stop Immediately: You must bring your vehicle to a stop as close to the scene of the accident as safely possible.
• Provide Information: Share your name, address, and vehicle registration number with the other party.

Failing to comply with these obligations can result in severe penalties, ranging from fines to the suspension of your driver’s license. If out-of-state drivers face similar charges, consulting an Indiana PA criminal lawyer ensures the right legal representation is available.

Why Fight Charges for Leaving the Scene?

Charges for leaving the scene of an accident are not only serious but also carry long-lasting impacts on your life. It’s imperative to fight these charges for the following reasons:

Scenarios and Penalties:

1. Property Damage Only:

• Classified as a 3rd-degree misdemeanor.
• Punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of $2,500.

2. Accidents Resulting in Injury:

• Considered a 3rd-degree felony.
• Carries penalties of 90 days to 7 years in incarceration and a minimum $1,000 fine.

3. Fatal Accidents:

• The most severe case, classified as a 3rd-degree felony.
• May result in 90 days to 7 years in prison along with a fine of $2,500 or more.

Additional Consequences:

• Driver’s License Suspension: A conviction often results in extended periods of driver’s license suspension, affecting your ability to legally operate a vehicle.
• Higher Insurance Premiums: Such convictions may significantly increase your insurance costs for years.

To avoid these consequences, get in touch with a qualified Indiana PA DUI attorney who can guide you through the legal process.

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help

At Logue Law Group, we specialize in defending clients charged with leaving the scene of an accident. Here’s how our experienced legal team can assist you:

• Thorough Investigation: We take a deep-dive, hands-on approach to uncover evidence that supports your defense.
• Minimizing Penalties: Even in cases where guilt is proven, we work tirelessly to reduce fines, license suspension periods, and jail time.
• Protecting Your Rights: Our expertise ensures that your legal rights and privileges are rigorously safeguarded.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Unique Laws

Pennsylvania is part of the Driver License Compact (DLC), an agreement among 46 states to share information on traffic violations and convictions. Under this agreement:

1. Traffic convictions in other states can impact your driving record in Pennsylvania.
2. Penalties such as license suspension in another state are enforceable in Pennsylvania.

For out-of-state offenders or complex cases involving interstate violations, a skilled Indiana PA criminal lawyer is critical.

Additionally, keep in mind Pennsylvania’s “Ride on Red” law. This traffic regulation allows drivers to cautiously pass malfunctioning traffic lights when it’s deemed safe. While convenient, misuse can lead to citations or accidents, making it vital to consult an Indiana PA DUI attorney if such charges arise.

Why Choose Logue Law Group?

Over the years, Sean Logue and his team at Logue Law Group have helped hundreds of clients in Indiana, PA, and surrounding areas. Our tailored defense strategies and proven track record set us apart. Here’s why you should work with us:

• Experienced Representation: Specializing in DUI and traffic-related offenses in Indiana, PA, and beyond.
• Customized Defense: We dedicate time and resources to building a defense strategy that fits your specific situation.
• Proven Results: We’ve successfully reduced penalties, avoided convictions, and helped clients retain their driving privileges.

With our team by your side, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with diligence and determination. And the best way to do that is to hire an Indiana PA criminal lawyer right away.

Don’t Delay – Take Action Today!

Facing charges for leaving the scene of an accident can quickly escalate into severe consequences, including higher fines, license suspensions, or even imprisonment. The earlier you act, the better the outcome.

Call844.PITT.DUI or contact us online to schedule afree initial consultation with a top-rated Indiana PA DUI attorney today. Our dedicated attorneys at Logue Law Group are available 24/7 to serve Indiana, PA, along with Ohio and West Virginia.