If a person causes a vehicular accident and doesn’t stop, this is called a hit and run accident and considered a serious offense. The laws related to these situations in Maryland are strict and the consequences are often severe. If a driver is involved in any accident, even a minor one, they should never leave the scene. Learning more about the laws and how a Hit And Run Accident Law Attorney in Waldorf, MD can help is beneficial.
Hit and Run Accidents Explained
According to the law in Maryland, an accident is only classified as a hit and run if property damage or bodily harm occurs. It is always wise to stop if an accident occurs since leaving can result in fees for fleeing the scene.
Penalties for Leaving an Accident Scene
The consequences a person may face if they are involved in a hit and run accident can be severe. However, the severity is dependent on the bodily harm or property damage that occurs because of the crash.
A driver that flees the scene that has resulted in property damage may face time in jail. The precise penalty is a fine of up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail. Drivers that cause property damage due to a hit and run may have eight points added to their license, which will result in them losing it. If bodily harm or a fatality occurs because of a hit and run accident, the at-fault driver can face felony charges. If they are convicted, the penalty is up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000 or both.If the accident causes a fatality, the at-fault driver will face felony manslaughter charges with penalties of up to a $10,000 fine, 10 years in prison or both.
The Importance of Legal Representation
If a driver is charged with a hit and run accident, they need to hire a hit and run accident law attorney in Waldorf, MD right away. The consequences for being convicted of this crime are severe and something an attorney can, in some situations, help with.
Don’t ignore hit and run accident charges. They can result in years in prison and hefty fines. Those who have questions can get more information.
