What If You Flee The Scene Of An Accident?
After an accident, it is your responsibility to remain on the scene until the situation can be handled. However, some people choose to leave the scene without talking to the other driver or waiting for police to take statements. There are serious legal consequences that result from leaving without consent. If you were involved in an accident and fled the scene, here is what you need to know:
What Are the Consequences?
The consequences for leaving the scene of an accident can vary. Various factors can influence the punishment you face. For instance, your state's laws will play a major role in what happens next to you. Whether the act is classified as a misdemeanor or felony is also important. Even the injuries and damages suffered by the victim are considered.
At a minimum, you could face a fine. The fine is more likely if the damages were limited to property. However, if someone was injured and you left the scene, you could face a larger fine, jail time, or probation. You could even lose your license.
To make matters worse, if it takes time for the police to find you, the prosecutor and judge could be far less lenient when it comes to deciding on a punishment. Failing to own up to your actions could be seen as having little remorse for what you did.
What Can You Do?
The most logical step for you to take is to turn yourself in for leaving the scene. Before doing so, you can consult with an attorney. He or she can determine if police are truly looking for you. If so, he or she can arrange for you to turn yourself in. In some instances, the attorney can even negotiate for the bail amount so that you will not have to stay in jail until your case is resolved.
You should also contact a bail bondsman to learn the terms of obtaining a bond. You can arrange for the bondsman to meet you and your attorney when you turn yourself into the police. If there is a previous arrangement between your attorney and the prosecutor and court, you can likely be bailed out shortly after being booked into the jail.
By preparing ahead of time, you can avoid sitting in jail for days until your case is heard by a judge. You can also take matters into your own hands and ensure that you are bailed out within a reasonable time.
Contact a company like Rader Bonding Co for more information and assistance.