Criminal Defense Attorney Tyler Chriscoe explains when you can and can’t leave the scene of a crime.
Crashes Are Scary
Crashes are scary. But North Carolina law is clear. If you are involved in a crash there are three things you have to do.
- Stop the Vehicle
- Remain with the Vehicle
- Do not move the Vehicle unless authorized to do so
If you are in a crash, it is a crime to drive away, walk away, or even move the vehicle. Punishments for hit-and-runs can be severe and like most crimes, it depends on the severity of what happened.
When Can I Leave an Accident?
There are some times when you can leave the scene of an accident. Some examples would be,
- If you staying on the scene puts yourself or somebody else at risk of injury.
- If you need medical attention.
- Any time an officer allows you to leave the scene.
When Can I Not Leave an Accident?
There are some reasons why you should not leave an accident.
- Being scared or anxious.
- Not knowing what to do.
- Having to be somewhere else by a certain time.
Law enforcement is going to be the one to decide when you can and can not leave.
Can I Leave a Small Fender Bender in a Parking Lot?
If there is no injury and you think the property damage will be less than $1,000, the parties involved in the accident can agree to exchange information without involving law enforcement. But, keep in mind that property damage can easily be more than $1,000.
Contact Us
Hopefully, this message reaches you before you are involved in a car crash and you’ll know what to do. But, if it’s reaching you too late and you’ve already been charged with hit and run, the best thing that you can do is to call an experienced criminal defense attorney. Dummit Fradin has been helping people charged with crimes for over 30 years. So if you’ve had a hit-and-run, give Dummit Fradin a call today. If you have been charged with a hit and run contact us to discuss your options.