Staying at the Scene of an Accident

 After a car accident there can be chaos and confusion. However, it is vital that you stay at the scene of the accident. There are very serious legal consequences if you do leave the scene before a report has filed.

Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run: A hit-and-run, in most states, is classified as a misdemeanor if it involves only property damage and does not involve injury to another party. A misdemeanor hit-and-run can result in steep fines and up to a year in jail time.

Felony Hit-and-Run: A Felony hit-and-run is issued for injuring another party such as a driver, passenger or pedestrian. Felony hit-and-run punishments vary by state but are more severe than misdemeanors; fines can be up to $10,000 and involve incarceration. No matter what state you live in, it is felony if you leave the scene of an accident that results in a death of another person.

Arrest Warrant: The police will arrive at the scene of the accident and do a thorough investigation. This will involve interviewing witnesses and reviewing any available surveillance video. Once the police determine who was at fault for the hit-and-run, it is very likely there will be a warrant issued for your arrest and the police will immediately begin to locate you.

Hit-and-run laws do not apply to witnesses, passengers, or any other person passing by. These parties may leave the scene without consequences. Avoiding the initial instinct to flee after hitting another person is essential to saving you from serious fines or even jail time later on.

McCarron Law Firm proudly serves the McLean County area. Located in downtown Bloomington, we provide personal injury settlements to car accident victims. McCarron Law Firm represents clients throughout Central Illinois, including Normal, Carlyle, Eureka, Pontiac, Peoria, Champaign, Pekin, Lincoln, Lexington, Hudson, Heyworth and Clinton, and all of McLean County, Livingston County, Clinton County, Woodford County, DeWitt County and Tazewell County. Call today to schedule your free consultation.
309-820-1010