An old Hebrew proverb says, “The guilty flee even though no one pursues them, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.” That’s what it’s like in a hit and run accident. All that nervous energy makes you want to run away, especially if it’s your fault. But, a hit and run can come with serious consequences, especially if someone died or was seriously hurt as a result. So, if you’ve been involved in such an accident, you need to know the possible consequences. Plus, you need the best local hit and run lawyer to defend you!

Consequences Without a Local Hit and Run Lawyer

First, let’s review the consequences. If you were the driver of the vehicle, here’s what can happen if…

• The accident resulted in death.

In this case, the driver bears the guilt of a second degree crime. This can come with a sentence of between 5 and 10 years in prison.

• The accident resulted in serious bodily injury.

Considered a third degree crime, this can come with probation (at minimum), and up to 5 years in prison.

Without the best attorney by your side to defend you, you could face the maximum sentence!

“Serious Bodily Injury” Defined

Like we mentioned above, the consequences for hit and run get steeper when someone suffers “serious bodily injury.” But what does that phrase mean? The best local hit and run lawyer will know. According to the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice NJS 2C:12-1.1, serious bodily injury is an injury “which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.”

Other Questions

Now, you probably have other questions. What if you weren’t at fault for the accident? What if you didn’t know someone got hurt before you fled? The best local hit and run lawyer will know the answers to all your questions.

• Not at fault?

If the hit and run accident resulted in either death or serious injury and a driver flees the scene, it does not matter if the driver was not at fault. Simply put, never flee the scene of an accident!

• Didn’t know someone died or was seriously injured?

In the case of a hit and run accident, the driver is still guilty of a crime. Pleading ignorance doesn’t apply to this situation.

The Best Local Hit and Run Lawyer

Thankfully, you do not have to face such an overwhelming case alone. Mark Catanzaro has the boldness of a lion who will stay by your side and defend you. So, if you need help, contact Mark Catanzaro today!