Miami, Florida Hit & Run Lawyer

Respected Attorney for Charges of Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Miami

When drivers in Florida are involved in crashes that injure others or cause damage to property, they are required to stop and remain at the scene of the accident to provide necessary information and render aid. Leaving the scene of any automobile accident without satisfying the necessary requirements is a criminal offense that is commonly referred to as a "hit and run."

An alleged offender who is accused of leaving the scene of a crash in Florida could face felony charges and a possible prison sentence as well as a large fine if they are convicted. Some people can be charged with a hit and run offense even if they did not know they were involved in the accident.

Were you charged with a hit and run in Miami? If so, make sure you contact an experienced attorney immediately to protect your rights and your future. Our team at The Hoffman Firm is standing by to help.

Attorney for Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Miami, FL

If you think that you might be under investigation, or if you were already arrested in Florida for an alleged hit and run crime, it is in your best interest to exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal counsel. The Hoffman Firm aggressively defends clients accused of criminal traffic offenses in communities all over Miami and South Florida.

Our Miami criminal defense lawyer, Evan Hoffman, can work tirelessly to help you achieve the most favorable resolution for your case. If possible, our team can aim to have your criminal charges reduced or dismissed altogether. Our attorney can provide an honest and thorough evaluation of your case when you call 305-249-0090 or contact us online to take advantage of a free, confidential consultation.

Consequences of Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Florida Statute § 316.062 establishes that the driver of any vehicle involved in a crash resulting in injury to or death of any person, or damage to any vehicle or other property that is driven or attended by any person, must provide a variety of information.

In short, anyone involved in an accident must provide the following:

• Their legal name
• Their address
• Registration number of the vehicle they were driving

Upon request, and if available, the driver of any vehicle involved in a crash should also exhibit his or her license or permit to drive to any person involved in the crash. They should also give information to any police officer at the scene of the crash.

In the event that none of the applicable parties are able to receive the necessary information and no police officer is present, the driver—after fulfilling all other aforementioned requirements as well as those established under Florida Statute § 316.027— should report the crash to the nearest police station and provide them with the necessary information. Violations of Florida Statute § 316.062 are noncriminal traffic infractions, punishable as nonmoving violations.

Under Florida Statute § 316.063, any driver who collides with an unattended vehicle or property must immediately stop and either locate and notify the owner or attach a written notice giving the driver's name, address, and their vehicle's registration number, in a noticeable spot. They should also notify the nearest police office. Failure to comply with this statute is a second-degree misdemeanor.

Florida Statute § 316.061 also makes it a second-degree misdemeanor for an alleged offender to leave the scene of a crash involving damage to a vehicle or other property which is driven or attended by any person. Under Florida Statute § 316.027, it is a third-degree felony if a driver leaves the scene of a crash resulting in injury to a person other than serious bodily injury.

The crime will be charged as a second-degree felony if a driver leaves the scene of a crash resulting in serious bodily injury to a person, and a first-degree felony if a driver leaves the scene of a crash resulting in the death of a person.

Miami Hit & Run Crash Penalties

The possible sentence for leaving the scene of an accident in Florida depends on how the alleged offense is classified. The statutory maximums for hit and run crimes are as follows:

• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500
• Third-Degree Felony: Up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000
• Second-Degree Felony: Up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000
• First-Degree Felony: Up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000

Contact Our Miami, FL Hit & Run Defense Attorney

Were you arrested for a hit and run, or do you believe that you could be under investigation for allegedly leaving the scene of an accident in Florida? Do not say anything to authorities until you have contacted The Hoffman Firm; we may be able to help you fight these serious accusations.

Evan Hoffman is an experienced criminal defense attorney who represents people in Miami and the surrounding areas. If you need help from a skilled, trustworthy legal professional, our team is prepared to provide you with the comprehensive counsel you need and deserve. Call 305-249-0090 or contact us online to set up a free consultation and get started on your case.