In New York State, it is against the law to flee the scene of a car crash when you know that property damage or injury occurred. Depending on the severity of the damages, the penalties for leaving the scene of an accident in New York can be severe. It will take an intelligent and experienced criminal defense attorney to defend your case, but it can be done. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation and protect your rights.
Penalties for Leaving the Scene of an Accident | Charges
After being involved in a car accident, it can sometimes be hard to keep your wits about you. Obviously, you should never leave the scene of the crash, but the good news is that it may not be a crime if you do so. If minimal property damage has occurred, then an experienced attorney can work it down to a traffic violation. However, the maximum penalty for this type of accident would be 15 days in jail and a $250 fine.
If someone is injured in the accident and you still drive off, then the penalties become much more severe. You would receive a Class A misdemeanor, which is a criminal charge that will remain on your record. You also could be facing up to one year in prison and a maximum fine off $1,000. It is important to speak with a knowledgeable attorney right away, regardless of whether you are a first-time or repeat offender.
Penalties for Leaving the Scene of an Accident | Harsh Consequences
If you are a repeat offender, then the charges become steeper. The penalty turns into a Class E felony with a maximum punishment of four years in prison and a fine of $5,000. Furthermore, if the injured person dies as a result of the accident and you still flee the scene, you will have a Class D felony on your hands. This would result in seven years in jail and a fine of $5,000.
However, an experienced New York criminal defense lawyer will have a variety of strategies to reduce your penalties. Plea bargaining is one such defense tactic that can result in your charges being minimized. But it takes the right lawyer to successfully do so.
If you are involved in a car accident, you need to stay at the scene and present your driver’s license and insurance information to the other party. If you do leave the scene of an accident, then you need to call our office right away. Experienced New York criminal defense lawyer Arthur Pressman will defend your rights and protect your freedoms during this difficult time. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.