What are the consequences for leaving th scene of an accident?
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What are the consequences for leaving th scene of an accident?
I left the accident to my house because I was scared and my house was 5 seconds away. Property damage was $12,000. The property damage was wooded area. My first time I did not know what to do and I panicked and had my wife call the police.
Asked on June 22, 2011 under Criminal Law, Florida
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
The good thing is you had your wife contact the police. It is very understandable you were scared, especially if this is the first time it happened. I assume by your concern that the police cited you for leaving the scene of an accident. The consequences differ from state to state for what is called leaving the scene of an accident or as most people know as a "hit and run". Of course, the consequences are not simply potential imprisonment (jail time) and fines, but also whether this is the type of offense that can impact your driver's license. In your state of Florida, I believe you get over 5 points on your driving record. In terms of the criminal penalty, and assuming criminal charges are filed or you don't get the matter dismissed, you are talking about 2 or 3 months in jail (enhanced if this is not a first offense or if you are on probation) and fines.
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