A hit-and-run occurs when a driver flees the scene of a crash without stopping. Recognize that if you are involved in a collision, you are required by law to stop and provide any needed information, like your identification and proof of insurance. To learn more about the penalties of this offense, continue reading and give our skilled Bergen County criminal defense attorney a call today.
What are the penalties of a hit and run?
As one can expect, leaving the scene of an accident is a crime in New Jersey. Offenders can face up to one or more of the following penalties:
In circumstances of injury or death:
- A fine ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, a jail term of up to 180 days, or both. License suspension for a year, and permanent suspension for repeat offenders.
In cases of damage to the vehicle and/or property:
- A fine ranging between $200 and $400, a jail term of up to 30 days, or both. Licenses suspension for six months, or a year for repeat offenders.
Depending on the individual instances, more serious charges that come with more serious penalties may be used.
What are the different types of hit and run accidents?
- Pedestrian hit and run accidents:
Pedestrians are especially at risk of fatal hit-and-run accidents because they lack the body of a vehicle to protect them. When the driver escapes the scene, it could be just like signing the victim’s death warrant as the immediacy of medical care can make the difference between life and death. - Cyclist hit and run accidents:
Even protective equipment worn by cyclists does not provide complete protection in the face of a car crash. Victims can encounter severe injuries such as bone fractures that require surgery or rehabilitation. In serious cases, the injury can even be life-changing. As children and young people make up a large part of cyclist hit and run accidents, it is important that these victims have someone that can fight for them and their rights. - Multiple vehicle hit and run accidents:
Even though you are more protected from a crash than a pedestrian would be, victims of numerous vehicle hit and run accidents have also faced serious life-changing injuries. Regardless of that, there is the damage to your vehicle to think of and repair costs to pay for. Additionally, if you are a passenger, you may not have an insurance policy and end up having to pay large amounts in medical bills.
Contact our Firm
Contact the Law Office of Carl Spector for an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who will aggressively fight for you. When your future is on the line, don’t settle for less than the best possible legal representation.
