Articles Posted in Criminal Traffic Crimes

Being involved in a traffic accident is stressful under any circumstances. But when you’re accused of leaving the scene—sometimes called a “hit-and-run”—the stakes rise dramatically. Florida law takes these charges very seriously, and the consequences can be life-changing. If you or someone you know is facing this situation, hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Understanding Florida’s Law on Leaving the Scene

Under Florida Statutes § 316.061 and § 316.027, drivers have a legal duty to stop immediately after an accident that results in property damage, injury, or death. Failing to do so is a crime. The severity of the charge depends on the circumstances: Continue reading

Were you arrested or given a notice to appear for leaving the scene of an accident in Florida?  Or, have you received calls from the police requesting to discuss you leaving the scene of an accident with them?  If so, there are steps you can take to avoid being found guilty even if you really did hit a car and then leave the scene.

Leaving the scene of an accident, or “hit and run” as it is commonly called, is governed by
Florida Statute section 316.061. Under that section, the offense of leaving the scene is committed when you:

  1. are involved in an accident or crash with another person’s property; such as a vehicle, building, or structure; and
  1. willfully leave the scene of the accident or crash without providing your name, address, registration information, and driver’s license to the owner of the property.

If the owner of the property is not present for you to provide your information or cannot be readily located, you are required to report the accident or crash to the nearest law enforcement agency and provide your name, address, registration information, and driver’s license. Continue reading

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