Being involved in a car accident in New Jersey is jarring enough, but discovering the other party has fled the scene, leaving you to manage the fallout alone, can be even more shocking. Motorists are legally obligated to remain at the scene of an accident to exchange information or assist injured parties. When a driver fails to do this, the incident is classified as a hit-and-run. This offense can lead to harsh penalties, including the loss of driving privileges, hefty fines, and time behind bars. Please continue reading to learn the potential penalties of hit and run accidents in New Jersey and how our experienced New Jersey & Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyers can help protect your rights.
What is Considered a Hit and Run in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, a “hit and run” occurs when a motorist fails to stop at the scene of an accident. Generally, motorists are expected to remain at the scene to exchange necessary information (name, address, insurance) and render aid to injured parties. Even if you only struck an unoccupied, parked vehicle, New Jersey law mandates that you leave a note with your contact information. It is ill-advised to chase after the other vehicle.
What Are the Penalties for a Hit and Run Accident Involving Only Property Damage?
While you might assume that leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage won’t lead to severe consequences, the law considers this a serious offense, even though no parties were injured. If you leave the scene of an accident involving only property damage, it can result in $200-$400 in fines, up to 30 days behind bars, a potential 6-month license suspension, and 2 points being added to your driving record.
If this is your second offense, these consequences will increase to $400-$600 fines, up to 180 days behind bars, and the loss of your driving privileges for up to one year.
What Are the Penalties for a Hit and Run Accident Involving Injury or Death?
A hit and run offense in New Jersey resulting in serious injury will likely be prosecuted as a disorderly persons (misdemeanor) or an indictable (felony) offense. The severity of the other drivers’ injuries will determine how the crime is classified.
In most cases, the penalties for a hit and run involving injuries result in fines anywhere between $2,500-$5,000, up to 180 days behind bars, and a driver’s license suspension for up to one year. When it comes to hit-and-run accidents involving fatalities, you can expect an indictable conviction. The consequences associated with this offense often include fines ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, up to five years behind bars, and your driver’s license will be permanently revoked.
This is only a glimpse into the complexities of New Jersey’s criminal laws. To learn more, please don’t hesitate to contact an attorney at The Vigilante Law Firm, P.C.
