Leaving Scene of an Accident
Leaving the scene can mean felony charges. We build your defense and fight to reduce or dismiss the case.
Legal Requirements
Florida law requires drivers involved in a crash resulting in injury or property damage to immediately stop at the scene and remain until they have fulfilled their statutory duties, which include providing identification and rendering aid. Failing to do so—often called “hit and run” or “leaving the scene”—is a serious crime. The severity depends on whether the crash caused property damage, injury or death.
Penalties
Property damage only: Leaving the scene after a crash that causes property damage is a second‑degree misdemeanor.
Injury: Failing to stop when the crash involves injury is a third‑degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison.
Serious bodily injury: Leaving the scene of an accident with serious bodily injury is a second‑degree felony carrying up to 15 years in prison.
Death: If someone dies and the driver fails to remain at the scene, the offense is a first‑degree felony with a mandatory minimum of 4 years in prison. Penalties are enhanced when the driver was under the influence.
Additional Considerations
Leaving the scene offenses often stem from panic or confusion. Florida law requires drivers to report accidents, provide contact information and assist injured parties. Even if you were not at fault in the crash, fleeing can turn a civil accident into a felony. A conviction can result in incarceration, license revocation and a criminal record. Defending these cases requires investigating whether you actually knew an accident occurred and whether you were reasonably able to stop.
How Ticket Shield Helps
If you are accused of leaving the scene, Ticket Shield will immediately start gathering evidence, including witness statements, 911 calls and surveillance footage, to build a timeline of events. Our attorneys challenge whether law enforcement can prove you knew of the crash and intentionally left. We also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or probationary sentences, especially when clients return to the scene or contact authorities soon after. Our priority is to protect your freedom and driving privileges while resolving the case as favorably as possible.
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