Florida Vehicle Accidents | Do Not Leave The Accident Scene
In Florida, leaving the scene of an accident can have harmful repercussions. It is always a criminal offense to leave the scene unless the police have approved your departure. These criminal charges can even turn into felonies if the accident involved any injuries or death. Stay put after an accident, and call the police and an attorney immediately. At Canan Law, we can advise you of your rights during a crash and potential accident investigations. Our experienced team of lawyers knows the St. Augustine and Interstate 95 areas and how to react to an accident to avoid further hindrances.
Leaving The Scene And Your Statutory Duties
After an accident occurs, you are required by law to stay at the scene if there is any property damage or serious injury involved. Leaving the scene can also be called a ” hit and run,” and it becomes a serious crime when anyone has suffered injuries or death at an accident scene.
You have a responsibility to give reasonable assistance to the other parties involved if they are injured. This aid can include checking on the individuals involved, calling the police to report the injuries and helping to carry or transport the injured person. You also have a responsibility to secure any property from the accident and return it to the owner.
Call An Attorney Immediately In An Accident Or If You Left The Scene
At Canan Law, we can advise you on your rights and responsibilities during an accident. You need to cooperate with the police, but it is not required to incriminate yourself. You might be scared to stay at the accident scene if the accident involved a drunk driving accident or someone was severely injured. You may have already left the accident scene and are unsure what to do next.
