If you flee the scene of an accident in New Jersey you can be subjected to a variety of legal repercussions and penalties. To ensure your rights are protected throughout your case it is important that you are adequately represented. Work with a Bergen County criminal defense attorney for skilled advice and legal representation.
Yes, fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal. According to New Jersey Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulation 39 § 4-129, “The driver of any vehicle knowingly involved in an accident resulting in injury or death to any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close thereto as possible but shall then forthwith return to and in every event shall remain at the scene until he has fulfilled the requirements of section (c) of this section.”
The statute also states that “The driver of any vehicle knowingly involved in an accident resulting only in damage to a vehicle, including his own vehicle, or other property which is attended by any person shall immediately stop his vehicle at the scene of such accident or as close thereto as possible, but shall then forthwith return to and in every event shall remain at the scene of such accident until he has fulfilled the requirements of subsection (c) of this section.”
The requirements of subsection (c), as they are referred to in the above paragraphs include giving your name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration to an injured party, a person whose property was damaged, a police officer, witness, and the driver or occupants of the other vehicles involved. You are also required to offer reasonable assistance to anyone injured in the accident, including taking them to a hospital or doctor if necessary.
As established above, you have several requirements after being involved in an accident, whether someone was injured or only property damage was done. By failing to complete any of these legal requirements you could be charged with a criminal offense.
Fleeing the scene of an accident where someone was injured is considered a third-degree crime in New Jersey. This is considered a felony offense and if convicted you can face a variety of severe penalties including:
If only damage to property was done and no one was injured, you could be fined up to $400 and be jailed for up to 30 days for a first offense. A second or subsequent offense will result in harsher penalties.
Because the consequences of fleeing the scene of an accident are so severe, it is crucial that you obtain skilled representation and thoroughly understand your legal rights and options. Work with an experienced attorney for help in your case.
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