Yes, it is actually a crime to leave the scene of an accident after you get into a car crash. This is true whether you hit an occupied vehicle or a parked car. There are rules that must be followed so that insurance companies can do their jobs and any injured parties can be properly treated. If you have been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, you should talk to our Dallas County criminal lawyers.

Why Do You Have to Stay at the Scene of an Accident?

In accordance with state law, you are supposed to stay at the scene of an accident and exchange information with any other involved drivers. This includes information about your vehicle and insurance policy, along with contact info. If anyone is hurt, you are supposed to call for help and do your best to assist them before an ambulance arrives. You should also contact the police to make sure that a report of the accident is made.

Even if you hit a car and no one else is around, you still can’t just leave the scene of an accident. You have to make some effort to try and find the driver of that vehicle you hit. Failing that, you should leave a note so that you can be contacted if a repair needs to be paid for. This can seem like it’s just common courtesy, but it’s also the law!

What Are the Punishments For Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

You can be punished for leaving the scene of an accident, even one where you just struck a parked car and no one could possibly be injured. You could be charged with a misdemeanor, a serious misdemeanor, or a Class D felony for fleeing. Penalties for these charges can include:

  • Up to $625 in fines and up to 30 days in jail for a misdemeanor where only vehicular damage occurred
  • Up to $1,875 in fines and up to one year in jail for a serious misdemeanor where someone else was injured
  • Up to $7,500 in fines and up to five years in jail for a Class D felony where someone died in the accident

Could I Lose My License If I Flee the Scene?

This is a possibility. If you get convicted of a crime relating to the accident, it is possible that your license will be suspended temporarily. It could even get revoked entirely. This is more likely to happen if you already have a criminal record or a record of driving-related infractions. Driving is a privilege, and the state can take that privilege away if it wants to.

Meet With Our Legal Team

If you have any other questions about how to fight these criminal charges, contact Iowa Defenders, PLLC. We can schedule a case consultation and help you learn more about your legal options.