Need a New Castle Defense Lawyer for Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Property Damage?

Car accidents that cause serious property damage can lead to legal trouble, in both criminal and civil court, depending on what happened. If the police believe you were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the damage occurred, your situation can get even more complicated. Anyone facing these kinds of charges should talk to a skilled attorney as soon as possible.

At Logue Law Group, our team is ready to guide you through the challenges that come with criminal charges following a car accident. With more than ten years of experience in criminal law, attorney Sean Logue is dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. To schedule a free consultation and discuss your options, contact Logue Law Group at 412.387.6901 or fill out our online form.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Vehicle and Property Damage Laws

If you cause an accident that damages someone’s property, it’s important to respond the right way to avoid criminal charges. Under Pennsylvania law, drivers have several responsibilities. A trusted New Castle criminal lawyer can explain how these rules apply to your specific situation:

• Immediate Response Required: Drivers must stop right away at the scene if they’ve damaged another vehicle or piece of property.
• Informing the Property Owner: You’re required to speak with the owner of the damaged property whenever that’s possible.
• Unattended Property Protocol: If the owner isn’t around, the driver must try to find them and share their personal and vehicle details.
• Assistance Duty in Injuries: If anyone is hurt in the accident, the driver must provide help or call for it.

If you can’t find the owner and no police officer is at the scene, you must report the accident at the nearest police station. Keep in mind that if the driver is badly injured, any passengers must take these steps for them.

Failing to identify yourself after an accident can turn even small amounts of damage into serious legal problems. To fully understand what a property damage accident means for you and what penalties a conviction could bring, it’s wise to speak with an experienced New Castle DUI attorney who knows Pennsylvania traffic law.

Potential Criminal Consequences for Hit-and-Run Incidents

If you’re convicted of leaving an accident scene, you could face a range of criminal penalties depending on the details of your case:

• Summary Offense: Failing to report an accident or exchange information after damaging an unoccupied vehicle or property can lead to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine.
• Third-Degree Misdemeanor: Leaving the scene of an accident that involves an occupied vehicle can result in up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

To avoid these charges and protect your driving record, always follow the law and pull over after an accident that causes vehicle or property damage. If someone is injured and the driver leaves the scene, the penalties after a conviction become much more severe. A knowledgeable New Castle criminal lawyer can help you understand exactly what you’re up against and build a strong defense.

Seek Legal Expertise Following a Car Accident Arrest

If you or a member of your family has been arrested after a car crash that caused major property damage, it’s important to reach out to a seasoned attorney right away. At Logue Law Group, we’re committed to providing the high-quality legal representation you need to fight your case in Lawrence County and beyond.

Why Choose Logue Law Group?

• Personalized Attention: Unlike firms that take on a heavy caseload, we choose to handle fewer cases. This way, every client gets the dedicated focus their case deserves.
• Free Consultation: Knowing your rights and the facts of your case matters. We offer a free initial consultation to help you start your defense on solid ground. Working with a dependable New Castle DUI attorney early on can make a real difference.
• Local Experience: Our firm has deep local knowledge and experience that can be key when defending against charges that come from car accidents.

Get the support and legal guidance you need to fight these serious charges. Contact Logue Law Group today at 412.387.6901 to set up your free legal consultation.