It is illegal in most cases to leave the scene of an accident in Georgia, at least until the police arrive and take a statement. You also are generally required to stop and render aid if you believe someone was injured in a crash that you were a part of. Failing to take these steps could put you in criminal jeopardy, but the good news is that a dedicated car accident attorney can help.
With the right legal counsel by your side, you could beat these charges or negotiate a reasonable plea bargain. Instead of taking the risk of handling your case alone, let a Doraville hit and run lawyer advise you of your options.
When Should a Driver Stop After a Crash?
There are specific circumstances that require you to stop and render aid after a motor vehicle accident in Doraville. However, in the practical sense, you can expect almost any accident to meet these qualifications.
Drivers must wait for the police to arrive after a collision that involves:
- Death of another person
- Bodily injuries to another person
- Serious damage to another vehicle
Any time a person is harmed, it is necessary to remain at the scene until police arrive. That said, it is also necessary to remain at the scene of accidents that involve any noticeable property damage, given the high cost of repairs.
One of the few situations where leaving the scene is allowed involves striking an unoccupied vehicle and being unable to track down the owner or driver. In that scenario, motorists are required to leave a note with their contact information.
Penalties
While any conviction for hit and run is a serious offense, a Doraville lawyer could help mitigate those consequences. The specific sentence will depend on the number of prior convictions a person had at the time of the accident.
A first-time offender faces a potential fine between $300 and $1,000 on top of a maximum jail term of 12 months. For a second offense within five years, the minimum fine increases to $600. Third or subsequent offenses carry a $1,000 minimum fine and a maximum jail term of one year.
While these consequences are serious, it is important to remember that there is always the ability to challenge the state’s case. With the right legal team, it may be possible to avoid a guilty verdict entirely.
Defenses
There are defense strategies available in cases of an alleged hit and run accident in Doraville. The important thing to keep in mind is that the specific facts of each case will determine the right approach, as there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
One common strategy involves claiming a medical emergency. If a driver was also injured in the crash, they may have required care that could not wait. There is no obligation to stay at a crash site if it is detrimental to a person’s health. Other possible options include arguing that the driver never actually left the scene or was not involved in the accident.
Reach Out to a Doraville Hit and Run Attorney Today
Facing these allegations can be scary, but securing a positive outcome might be more likely than you realize. With the support of a Doraville hit and run lawyer, you may be able to beat these charges. Call today and schedule a consultation to learn more.