Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Top Rated Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Morgantown

If you’ve been in a car crash, you must know your legal duties regarding sharing contact and insurance details with the other driver. Ignoring this can result in a “hit and run” charge, which carries severe penalties. In Pennsylvania, the law operates on a straightforward idea: if you haven’t done anything wrong, you shouldn’t flee the accident scene. However, if you find yourself facing these charges, you need to understand your defense options. Working with a skilled Morgantown criminal lawyer is vital to safeguarding your rights.

Important Facts About Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Under Pennsylvania law, if you are involved in a wreck while driving, you are legally required to stop your vehicle immediately or as close to the incident as possible. You must also give specific details to the other person(s) involved, including your vehicle registration number, name, and address.

Why Should I Fight These Charges?

If you are accused of leaving the scene of an accident, fighting the charges is critical because they bring significant penalties and long-term negative effects. The severity of the punishment depends on the specifics of the incident. Here are the different scenarios that can lead to this charge:

• Property Damage Only: If the crash only caused damage to property, it is treated as a 3rd-degree misdemeanor. You could face up to one year in jail and a fine of $2,500.
• Injury Involvement: Fleeing an accident where someone was injured is a 3rd-degree felony. A conviction here can mean a prison sentence between 90 days and 7 years, plus a minimum fine of $1,000.
• Fatality: Leaving the scene when a death has occurred is the most severe violation. This is a 3rd-degree felony punishable by 90 days to 7 years of incarceration and a minimum fine of $2,500.

Additionally, a conviction can lead to a lengthy suspension of your driver’s license, limiting your legal right to drive.

Given the serious consequences of a guilty verdict, you should immediately contact an experienced Morgantown DUI attorney like those at Mountaineer Law Group. They can guide you on the best steps to take for your specific situation.

How Can We Help You?

Sean Logue and his associates at Mountaineer Law Group have a strong history of successfully defending clients in hit-and-run cases. Their knowledge ensures that even if the evidence is against you, they will work hard to reduce penalties and protect your rights. By using a thorough, investigative strategy, they dig up all the facts to build the strongest defense possible.

Criminal Lawyer From Mountaineer Law Group

Do not simply accept the charges; fight back with determination. Join the hundreds of clients who have found help with Sean Logue and his team.

Contact Mountaineer Law Group in Morgantown to set up a free initial consultation with a seasoned Morgantown criminal lawyer. We are available 24/7 and can be reached online or by calling (304) 381-3656.

Do not delay; hire a Morgantown DUI attorney to represent you now to avoid steeper fines and harsher punishments. Mountaineer Law Group serves the entire Morgantown area, including Berks County and surrounding regions, as well as Ohio and West Virginia.