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Understanding Hit & Run Laws
Being involved in a car accident can be stressful, but what happens if someone drives away without stopping? That’s what we call a hit-and-run. Whether you’re facing charges or just want to better understand what this means, we’re here to break it down in a way that’s easy to understand, no legal jargon—just the info you need.
What Does a Hit-and-Run Mean?
A hit-and-run happens when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to share their contact info or help anyone who might be hurt. It covers everything from small fender benders to major collisions involving injuries or death.
Why is this such a big deal? Well, the law takes it seriously because failing to stop can leave victims without help or a way to address damages. Pretty much everywhere, drivers are required to stop after an accident, exchange details like name and insurance, and help if someone is injured. Driving off could lead to hefty fines—or even jail time.
What Can Happen if You’re Charged?
The punishment for a hit-and-run really depends on how serious the accident was. For example, leaving the scene of a minor scrape might result in fines and license penalties, but if injuries or deaths are involved, things escalate quickly. You could be looking at felony charges, significant fines, jail time, or a permanent stain on your criminal record.
Another thing to consider? Your insurance rates. A hit-and-run conviction usually leads to much higher premiums, and that’s assuming your insurer doesn’t drop you altogether.
Variations in State Laws
Are Hit-and-Run Laws the Same Everywhere?
Not exactly. While the basic idea of a hit-and-run doesn’t change—leaving the scene is illegal—each state has its own twist. Some states are extra strict. For example, in Florida, drivers must stay at the scene until the police arrive, no matter how small the accident. Others have specific reporting rules if damage or injuries occur.
Knowing the rules in your state (or any state you travel to) is crucial. Ignorance of the law won’t help your case if you’re caught.
What Every Driver Should Do
Your Legal Responsibility After an Accident
If you’re involved in an accident, here’s what the law expects you to do:
- Stop right away, close to the scene, without blocking traffic if possible.
- Share your info—this usually means your name, address, license, and insurance details.
- Call for help if anyone is hurt. Reporting the incident to the police can be required in some states, especially if there’s major damage or injuries.
By doing these things, you’re sticking to your legal obligations and avoiding bigger trouble down the road.
Reporting an Accident
Reporting laws aren’t the same everywhere, but they’re widely required if an accident involves injuries, death, or significant property damage. Filing a report creates an official record, which can be helpful for insurance and prevents misunderstandings.
Some states might even ask drivers to report smaller accidents to the DMV. Bottom line? Take the reporting requirement seriously. Skipping this step can lead to fines or criminal charges.
Self-Defense and Hit-and-Run
Can Self-Defense Be a Valid Reason?
Everyone’s safety matters, including your own. If you left the scene because you thought you were in danger—say, from road rage—you might claim self-defense. But here’s the catch—it’s up to you (and likely your attorney) to prove that you truly felt threatened and that leaving was your only safe choice.
Evidence like dashcam footage, witness testimony, or signs of aggression from the other driver can help back up your claim, but the bar for proving self-defense in these cases is high.
Facing a Hit-and-Run Charge?
Hit-and-run charges can feel overwhelming, but getting the right legal help makes all the difference. At Knowles Law Firm, PLC, we specialize in defending clients in hit-and-run cases.
Our Mesa and Scottsdale-based team understands the challenges you’re facing and is here to help you build a strong defense. Whether you claim self-defense or need guidance navigating the legal process, we’re on your side.
Call us today at (602) 702-5431 to schedule a consultation. Don’t face this alone—let us guide you toward the best possible outcome.