Leaving The Scene of an Accident

Charged with “leaving the scene” in Broward County?

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious legal matter.  This offense, also called “hit and run” can result in very stiff penalties if you are convicted.  One is required by Florida law to stay at the scene of an accident in which one has been involved.   If you have left the scene of an accident and are later arrested and charged, you may spend time in jail or prison, and be forced to pay expensive fines as well.  If the accident only caused property damage, the penalty will be less than if there are injuries involved in the accident. 

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Broward County

It is a legal requirement that if you are involved in a vehicle accident, that you stop and exchange contact information, insurance information and get medical assistance for any injured individuals.  If you fail to do so, you will be sought out by law enforcement, and when caught, charges of leaving the scene of an accident will most likely be the result.  This is a very serious legal problem, and it is critical that you contact a Broward County criminal defense lawyer if you are facing this situation.  With the assistance of an attorney from Hager & Schwartz, P.A. it is possible that a defense for your case can be immediately determined and begun.

Leaving the scene is a very serious charge and has several levels of penalties, based on the accident and the outcome.  Leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in property damage only is usually charged as a second degree misdemeanor and part of the penalty is often up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.  If there was an injury in the accident, and you are charged with leaving the scene, the charge becomes much more serious.  You will now be facing a third degree felony charges and the penalty includes up to 5 years in prison, as well as up to $5,000 in fines.  If the accident caused a fatality, the crime charged will likely be a first degree felony, which, if convicted has a punishment of up to 30 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000.

It is crucial that you get legal assistance if you are facing such a charge.  At Hager & Schwartz, P.A. the legal team offers a free initial consultation to determine how to move forward with your defense.  The firm is made up of seasoned criminal defense lawyer who have a long history of successfully fighting for the rights of individuals charged with leaving the scene and other criminal offenses.

Contact a Broward County Criminal Defense Attorney from Hager & Schwartz, P.A. if you are seeking experienced, dedicated and relentless legal representation in any “leaving the scene of an accident” charges in Broward County or Fort Lauderdale.