Being involved in a car accident can really give
you a scare. Some drivers would actually choose to just run when they hit
another car or a person. Because of the stress and fear, they can’t think
straight and do not realize the consequences of leaving the scene of accident.
The punishment is serious because as a driver, you are expected to know what to
do when you are involved in an accident.
After a car accident, a driver has legal duties to
fulfill. It is important that you know what you need to know and not go leaving
the scene of accident.
·
Stop the car immediately or stop when it is safe
for you to leave the car already.
·
Look for anyone who was involved in the accident
and check if they are injured or hurt.
·
If they are injured or hurt, provide assistance
in whatever way possible.
·
You must contact the traffic police or law
enforcement agency so they can respond to the accident immediately.
·
You should get important information for the
driver, passenger or pedestrian involved. Get their name, address, phone
number, license number, insurance company, insurance policy number, vehicle
registration and the likes.
As you can see, leaving the scene of accident is
not something you must do because it is actually your duty to talk to the other
person involved and offer help if needed. This is why it is considered a crime
to do a hit-and-run. You will have to suffer from criminal penalties and
punishments if you are proven guilty of this charge.
In such cases, you will need a traffic lawyer to
represent you, if you choose to run after the accident. Although in some
states, hit-and-run is considered as a misdemeanor only, the punishment will
still depend on the seriousness and severity of the accident.
In California, punishment may include county jail
imprisonment or it could also be state imprisonment for a year. Added to that
is a fine that can range from $1,000 to $10,000. In Texas, if the accident
resulted in serious injury or death, the punishment can be up to five years
imprisonment or a fine of $5,000 or both.
A traffic lawyer will come in very handy during
your trial. He or she can help prove your innocence, negotiate for less
punishment or anything to avoid harsher punishments. A traffic lawyer is very
experienced in dealing with such cases.
Of course, no one wants to go to court or even
jail. If you are involved in an accident, don’t think about leaving the scene
of accident even for a bit. Otherwise, you will have to contact a traffic
lawyer to save you.
Rick Silverman, P.A.
311 S Brevard Ave. Tampa, Florida 33606
(813) 871-1125
http://www.businesslocallistings.com
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