What to Do When Charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident in New York

Being charged with leaving the scene of an accident in New York can feel overwhelming and intimidating. In Queens, where traffic congestion and road incidents are common, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and the steps you should take if you find yourself facing such a charge. At Vasiliou Law, we’ve helped numerous clients navigate these complex situations, ensuring they are informed and protected at every stage. Here’s what you need to know if you’re charged with leaving the scene of an accident.

Understanding the Charge

In New York, leaving the scene of an accident is taken very seriously. The law requires all drivers involved in an accident to stop and exchange information, such as names, addresses, and insurance details, regardless of whether the incident involves property damage, injury, or death. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 600.

The severity of the charge depends on the circumstances:

1. Property Damage Only: Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is a traffic infraction.
2. Personal Injury: If the accident results in injury to another person, leaving the scene is considered a misdemeanor.
3. Serious Injury or Death: If someone suffers serious injury or dies, leaving the scene can lead to felony charges, carrying severe penalties.

Penalties You May Face

The penalties for leaving the scene of an accident vary depending on the specifics of the case but can include:

• Fines: Ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor infractions to thousands of dollars for more serious cases.
• Jail Time: Up to one year for a misdemeanor and more for felony charges.
• Driver’s License Consequences: Points on your license, suspension, or even revocation.
• Criminal Record: A conviction can leave you with a permanent record, affecting employment, housing, and other aspects of your life.

Steps to Take if Charged

1. Do Not Admit Fault at the Scene

If you’re involved in an accident, stay at the scene and exchange information. However, avoid admitting fault, as this could be used against you later. Remain calm and stick to the facts when speaking to others involved or law enforcement.

2. Contact an Attorney Immediately

If you’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident, your first step should be to consult an experienced attorney. At Vasiliou Law, we specialize in criminal defense and are familiar with the nuances of New York’s traffic and criminal laws. We will assess the details of your case and work to protect your rights.

3. Gather Evidence

Document as much information about the incident as possible. This includes photos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles, and any injuries. If there were witnesses, obtain their contact information. Evidence can be critical in building your defense.

4. Do Not Speak to Authorities Without Legal Representation

Law enforcement may try to contact you for a statement. While you should cooperate with legal authorities, avoid providing details about the incident until you’ve consulted with your attorney. Anything you say could be misconstrued and used against you.

5. Understand Potential Defenses

Several defenses may apply to your case, depending on the circumstances. For example, you may not have realized an accident occurred, or you may have left the scene for safety reasons, such as fearing harm from another driver. An experienced attorney will help identify the best strategy for your case.

Why Choose Vasiliou Law?

At Vasiliou Law, located in Astoria, Queens, we understand the high stakes involved in these cases. With over 40 years of combined experience, our team is dedicated to providing personalized, aggressive representation to clients facing charges like leaving the scene of an accident.

We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of New York’s legal system and our ability to navigate the complexities of criminal and traffic laws. Our goal is to minimize the impact of these charges on your life and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Queens or anywhere in New York, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Contact Vasiliou Law at 347-967-6141 or visit our website at www.svlawpartners.com to schedule a consultation. Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of protecting your rights and future.

This blog is tailored for Vasiliou Law’s clients in Queens, NY, and emphasizes the importance of taking immediate, informed action when facing this charge.