Loudoun County Hit and Run Lawyer

Anyone involved in a traffic accident in Virginia must fulfill certain duties under state law before leaving the scene. A person who misses even one of their obligations following a collision can wind up facing serious criminal consequences, potentially rising to a felony punishable by prison time.

When you have been accused of prematurely leaving a crash scene, contact a seasoned traffic defense attorney to protect your long-term best interests and personal prospects. Time may be limited when achieving favorable resolutions to these cases, so your top priority should be to retain a Loudoun County hit and run lawyer.

How State Law Defines Hit and Run

According to Code of Virginia § 46.2-894, every person involved in a motor vehicle wreck with an occupied vehicle or property must immediately stop a reasonably safe distance from the scene. They must provide their name and other key personal information to all involved parties, respond to law enforcement, and render reasonable aid to anyone in need.

Those unable to comply with these requirements at the accident scene due to their own injuries must do so through a written report submitted to local or state law enforcement as soon as possible. VA Code § 46.2-896 establishes similar requirements and a 24-hour time limit for collisions involving unoccupied vehicles or property.

Potential Consequences of Violating Crash Obligations

Anyone who violates the rules in a wreck with less than $1,000 of total property damage and no injuries has committed a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, hit and runs involving less than $250 worth of damage to unattended property may be considered a Class 4 misdemeanor. If the crash results in injury or more than $1,000 of property damage, a hit and run would be a Class 5 felony offense.

Therefore, a conviction for even a first-time criminal offender could lead to a maximum ten-year prison term. A person may also incur substantial monetary fines and administrative penalties, such as a prolonged driver’s license suspension. Support from a seasoned Loudoun County attorney could be especially crucial to address this hit and run charge.

Contesting Hit and Run Charges in Loudoun County

Ignorance of the lawful responsibilities imposed in a car wreck is not a solid defense against criminal hit and run charges. That said, acknowledging fault for an offense after it occurs can still help minimize its long-term consequences, especially for people with no prior criminal records.

It is always best to contact a lawyer after a hit and run in Loudoun County, regardless of the incident’s severity. Legal counsel could help mitigate penalties and argue against charges on their client’s merits. This would mean establishing a defendant did comply with all the requirements imposed on them by state law.

Speak with a Loudoun County Hit and Run Attorney Today

While car accidents can be traumatic and overwhelming, you still have duties to fulfill after being involved in one, and not doing so can carry severe legal repercussions. Fortunately, you have help from dedicated legal professionals if you find yourself facing criminal charges over leaving a crash scene prematurely.

A Loudoun County hit and run lawyer could work diligently to secure a favorable resolution to your criminal case. Call Karin Riley Porter Attorney at Law today for a private consultation.