If you’ve been involved in a hit and run accident, getting experienced, qualified legal representation should be your first priority. Under Ohio law, if you’ve been involved in an accident, you must:
- Get emergency assistance if anyone has been injured
- Stay at the scene of the accident and wait for the authorities to arrive
- Provide your name, address, registration and insurance information to the other party in the accident, and get their information if possible
- Cooperate with the police investigation
If you hit an unoccupied vehicle, you are also required to leave your information securely attached to the vehicle that was hit.
If you’re involved in an accident, it can be a very scary experience, and it is human nature to run if we’ve done something wrong. But if you leave the scene of the accident it tends to make you look guilty whether or not you are at fault.
Leaving the scene of an accident has very serious consequences under Ohio law. If you’re convicted of the charge, which is a first-degree misdemeanor, you could receive up to a six-month jail term, a minimum of six points on your driving record, and up to a $500 fine. If there is serious injury to another person, the charge becomes a fifth degree felony, incurring a six to 12 month prison term, driver’s license suspension for six months, and as much as $2,500 in fines.
If the prosecutor can prove that the accident happened while you were drug or alcohol impaired, you’ll receive an additional six points on your driver’s license. In addition, you may incur very steep fines and be required to pay restitution into the tens of thousands of dollars, depending the circumstances.
Need a Hit and Run Defense Lawyer in Columbus, Ohio?
If you have left the scene of the accident, you face very serious charges. This is no time to go it alone or depend on your wits in court. Your very future could be at stake. If you’re facing hit and run charges in Columbus, Ohio, you need an experienced hit and run defense lawyer who will review your case and create a strategy to either win the case or mitigate the potential damage to your record. This will protect your driving record, your license, and possibly even your livelihood. The skilled, trusted legal representation at Probst Law Office offers the help you need to be sure you have the best representation possible in fighting hit and run charges. Get the experience that you need and deserve when you hire Michael Probst as your attorney. Contact Michael today for your free consultation, or call now at 614-232-8890.