Jacksonville Lawyer for Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Discuss Your Case During a Free Consultation

In Florida, you are required to remain at the scene of an accident that caused property damage, bodily injury, and/or death. Failing to stay could result in severe penalties that affect your future. If you were charged with leaving after being involved in a crash, contact our lawyer at The Law Offices of Kate Mesic, P.A. for legal representation. We will take the time to listen to your side of the story and gain an understanding of the circumstances. From there, we will develop a legal strategy to defend your case.

For the aggressive defense you need, call us at (904) 615-8950.

Driver’s Requirements After a Crash

Under Florida law, drivers must stop at or near the scene of an accident in a way that does not obstruct traffic. They are also required to check that others involved are safe and render assistance as necessary.

Additionally, the driver must exchange the following information with others:

• Name,
• Address, and
• Vehicle registration number

If requested by anyone else involved, or the officer investigating the accident, the individual must furnish their driver’s license or driving permit. If others are in no condition to receive the information, the driver must report the collision to the local police department.

Failing to provide the required information is a noncriminal traffic infraction.

Leaving After a Crash Involving Vehicle or Property Damage

Failure to stay after a crash that resulted only in damage to property is a second-degree misdemeanor.

Conviction penalties include:

• Up to 60 days in jail
• Up to 6 months of probation
• Up to $500 fine

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Injury

If a driver is involved in an accident that caused bodily injury to others, and they do not meet their lawful obligations to exchange information and render aid, they could be charged with a third-degree felony.

If convicted, they could face:

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Up to 5 years of probation
• Up to $5,000 in fines

If the accident caused serious bodily injury, the level of this offense would increase to a second-degree felony.

The potential penalties include:

• Up to 15 years in prison
• Up to 15 years of probation
• Up to $10,000 in fines

In addition to the criminal penalties, a person found guilty of leaving the scene of an injury-causing accident could also get their license revoked for a minimum of 3 years.

Contact The Law Offices of Kate Mesic, P.A. for Skilled Legal Representation

Our Jacksonville attorney has over 12 years of experience and knows how to challenge criminal accusations. When you retain our services, we will help you navigate the criminal justice system and develop a strategy to avoid lasting consequences on your record. There are multiple options in resolving these cases, don’t just enter a plea that will result in a criminal record, consult an attorney to fully understand your options.

Schedule your free consultation by calling us at (904) 615-8950 or contacting us online.