How Serious Is A Hit And Run Charge?

How Serious Is a Hit and Run Charge? 

A hit-and-run charge is considered a felony crime in New York. A hit-and-run conviction can lead to additional charges, such as vehicular assault, reckless endangerment, or vehicular manslaughter. However, there are defenses to a hit-and-run charge.

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Leaving the scene of an accident without properly identifying yourself 

A hit-and-run charge is when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing adequate information to the police. It can involve a collision with another vehicle, a pedestrian, or a fixed object. If someone is injured, a hit-and-run charge can be a felony. 

Felony penalties for a hit-and-run in New York 

In the state of New York, hit-and-run charges can result in both misdemeanor and felony convictions. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, penalties may range from a fine of up to $2,500 to seven years in jail. To avoid a hit-and-run charge, drivers involved in a collision should exchange information with other drivers involved in the collision. In addition, they should call the police and report the accident to the authorities. 

Traffic violation for property damage 

If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident and left the scene without reporting it, you may be liable for a traffic violation for property damage. This type of offense can carry serious penalties. You could face fines and jail time as well as points on your driver’s license. 

Defenses to a hit-and-run charge 

Some defenses to a hit-and-run charge involve the defendant not having a direct connection to the accident. In other words, the driver was not aware of the collision and left the scene before either party realized that the damage was done. In addition, the driver may have a legitimate reason for leaving the scene, such as an emergency. In these cases, the driver cannot be convicted. 

Defenses to a felony hit-and-run charge 

If you were charged with felony hit-and-run, your attorney may suggest defenses to the charge. In some cases, it’s possible to avoid the charge entirely by proving that you were not at fault. For example, if you were driving and rear-ended another vehicle, and there were no injuries, then you’re not liable for the accident. 

Defenses for a traffic violation for property damage 

A hit-and-run charge for property damage often involves a simple mistake. The driver may hit a mailbox or parked car and leave the scene before realizing the damage. In this case, the driver may not have insurance, and the damages were unintended. 

Defendants of a hit-and-run charge 

If you have been arrested on a hit-and-run charge, you have several options. First, you can argue that you had a legitimate reason to leave. A valid excuse can include a medical emergency or a family crisis.