Leaving the scene of an accident (most commonly referred to as a “hit and run”) has serious consequences in New Jersey. State law requires a driver to stop and report any sort of motor vehicle accident, even if no injuries were sustained. If you’ve been charged with this crime, it is important to retain an experienced hit and run lawyer in Mount Holly.

What is Required From You After an Accident?

Common reasons for leaving the scene of an accident may include not having adequate auto insurance coverage, being intoxicated, or simply believing that all was okay and that it wasn’t necessary to stop.

Or perhaps it wasn’t even you who left the scene of an accident. If someone borrowed your car and fled the scene, you could be the one charged after your license plate is tracked down.

New Jersey law constitutes the following as a hit and run:

• When a driver is knowingly involved in an accident that causes death or injury and fails to stop.
• When a driver is knowingly involved in an accident that causes damage to either vehicle or other property and fails to stop.
• When a driver is knowingly involved in an accident that causes damage to an unattended vehicle or other property and fails to stop.

For the first two instances, the driver is required to find a safe spot to pull over and exchange information with the other driver and report the accident to police. He or she is also required to render reasonable assistance to an injured party, including taking them to the hospital if it is apparent that such treatment is necessary or requested by the injured person.

In the last scenario, the driver must notify the owner of the property, or if the owner cannot be located, they must leave a note in a conspicuous spot containing their name and address, and notify police.

A hit and run conviction carries with it harsh penalties, which range from 30 to 180 days in jail; $200 to $5,000 in fines; and a 6- to 12-month suspension of driving privileges, depending on the severity of the situation. Obviously, leaving the scene of an accident that results in death will result in sentencing on the high end of the range.

A Mount Holly Hit and Run Lawyer For Your Case

Mark Catanzaro, the premier hit and run lawyer Mount Holly residents can count on, has nearly 30 years of experience defending clients in similar cases. He will consult with you about the incident and review the relevant files in order to build the best defense for your specific case. There is no question too big or too small for your Mount Holly hit and run lawyer. Call today to make an appointment.