Why You Should Never Flee the Scene of a Car Accident

Being involved in an accident is a frightening thing. One of the first instincts, if we think we’ve done something wrong, is to run. Leaving the scene of the accident makes you appear to be guilty, regardless of whether or not you’re at fault. In an age of cell phone cameras, traffic monitoring at every intersection, and parking lot security surveillance cameras, chances are that you’ll be caught if you flee.

Leaving the scene of the accident can have lifelong consequences, from large fines to jail time. Naturally, consequences vary according to the severity of the accident and whether human life or property is involved. 

According to Ohio law, if you’re in an accident, you must provide your name, address, and vehicle registration number, as well as insurance information to the other person involved in the accident. If the other person isn’t able to comprehend or record the information, you must notify the nearest police authority, remaining there unless taken away by ambulance. In the case of an accident with an unoccupied vehicle, you must leave the information securely attached to the vehicle.

Penalties

Hit and runs are punished very severely in Ohio. Failing to stop after an accident is a misdemeanor. If the accident results in serious physical injury or death, failure to stop is a felony offense. In addition to other penalties, the law requires that anyone leaving the scene of an accident lose their driver’s license for a minimum of six months. In addition, you may incur very steep fines and be required to pay restitution into the tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the circumstances.

Here’s what to do if you’re in an accident:

• If there is any injury to anyone involved in the accident, get emergency assistance immediately
• Stay on the scene and wait for the authorities to arrive
• If possible, provide your name, address, registration and insurance information to the other party in the accident, and get their information
• Cooperate with the police investigation 

What to do if you’ve fled the scene of an accident:

If you’re in this situation in Columbus, Ohio, there is a good chance that authorities are looking for you and it is just a matter of time before they identify and arrest you.  You need the counsel of a hit and run defense lawyer.

You need an attorney who knows the law and has the experience and skill to represent your best interests and defend you against hit and run charges. The Maher Law Firm will work to protect your rights and freedoms. Call The Maher Law Firm today for a free consultation at 614-205-2208 or contact us online.