Leaving The Scene Of An Accident

How Does New York Define Leaving The Scene Of An Accident?

There two types of offenses involving leaving the scene of an accident: one involves a property damage accident, the other a personal injury accident. The latter is a misdemeanor, however, leaving the scene of a personal injury accident resulting in serious personal injury or death can be charged as a felony. If you were involved in an accident in White Plains, NY and were charged with leaving the scene of the accident, make sure you contact a Traffic Violations Attorney in White Plains, NY right away.

What Are The Most Common Reasons Someone Leaves The Scene Of An Accident?

Most people panic and leave the scene of an accident hoping that no one has recorded their license and therefore cannot track them down. However, if the accident is witnessed and someone records your license plate and reports it to the police, they will run it through the DMV computer and appear at your home as soon as possible to either issue you tickets or take you into custody, if it is a serious accident. Leaving the scene of the accident is considered a serious crime which should not be taken lightly. Make sure you contact a White Plains, NY Traffic Violations Attorney to have the charge reduced or dismissed.

What Are The Most Common Misconceptions Concerning A Leaving The Scene Incident?

The most common misconception is that it is no big deal. Leaving the scene of a property damage accident carries three points against your license, in addition to a fine. Leaving the scene of a personal injury accident however is much more serious and can result in your being charged with a misdemeanor and in some cases involving serious physical injury or death, a felony which carries substantial jail time as well as substantial fines.

What Then Is A Motorist Duty Upon Being Involved In An Accident?

If it is a property damage accident, you should display all required information at the scene. If no other persons are around, you should leave a note on the other vehicle with your contact information. You then should report it as soon as possible to your insurance company and they will take appropriate steps to advise the DMV.

However, if you are involved in a personal injury accident, you should not leave the scene until after the police arrive and conduct their investigation. In the unfortunate event that you do end up facing a charge for being involved in an accident, get in touch with the White Plains, NY Traffic Violations Lawyers at our office. Our Traffic Violations Attorney in White Plains, NY will make sure you get the best representation for your case.

However, if you are involved in a personal injury accident, you should not leave the scene until after the police arrive and conduct their investigation.