Failure to Stop After an Accident Causing Property Damage

If a driver is involved in an accident that damages property and does not stop their vehicle, they are violating Pennsylvania law. This offense is taken seriously, and prosecutors do not need to prove the driver’s state of mind or intent. The primary issue is the simple act of leaving the scene.

Here’s a breakdown of what that means:

• You must report the incident to law enforcement within 24 hours.
• The law applies even if the damage is minor or has no monetary value.
• The definition of an “accident” is based on the outlines provided in Pennsylvania’s vehicle code.

Need Legal Help? Contact a Lawyer

At Logue Law Group, our Mercer criminal lawyer team is prepared to defend anyone charged with failing to stop after an accident that causes property damage. We have extensive experience handling these types of cases throughout Mercer County.

For a free consultation, please get in touch with us. We will review the charges you are facing, explore ways to avoid common penalties, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation.

Call Mercer criminal lawyer today at 412.389.0805.

Proving the Offense: Failing to Stop After an Accident in Mercer, PA

For a conviction, the prosecution must prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt. They must demonstrate that:

1. The accused was in control of the vehicle when the accident happened.
2. The incident caused damage to property, which could be anything from a fence to another car.
3. The property was legally located near a public road.
4. The accused individual failed to stop immediately and did not make a reasonable effort to:
   • Find and notify the property owner or custodian about the incident.
   • Provide their name, address, and vehicle information.
   • Show their driver’s license if requested.
5. If the property owner could not be found after a reasonable search, the driver did not, within 24 hours of the collision, provide the following information to the local police or sheriff’s office:
   • Their name and address.
   • The vehicle’s registration number.
   • The location of the accident.
   • Details about the damage caused.

Failing to meet these requirements can lead to prosecution for leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage. If you find yourself in this situation, it is crucial to seek professional legal assistance. A knowledgeable Mercer DUI lawyer can ensure your rights are protected and that every possible defense is used to safeguard your freedom and reputation.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Hit-and-Run Property Damage Law

The legal statutes governing hit-and-run incidents with property damage in Pennsylvania define several key terms. Understanding these definitions is essential for correctly interpreting the law.

Key Legal Definitions Explained

• Driving: This is defined as causing a motor vehicle to move or being in physical control of a moving vehicle.
• Accident: Any event where a vehicle’s operation results in property damage. It’s important to note that direct contact isn’t always necessary; this is sometimes called a “phantom hit-and-run.”
• Immediately: This term is understood to mean without any delay or acting straight away.
• Result: This refers to something that happens as a direct or indirect consequence of an event. It is legally distinct from “cause.” A Mercer criminal lawyer can explain this distinction further.
• Damage: Any physical harm to property that leads to a loss in value or impairs its use or enjoyment. Normal wear and tear is not considered damage.
• Adjacent: Describes something that is near or close by, though not necessarily touching.
• Public Road or Highway: This includes all public-access ways, such as bridges and culverts. The location is a key factor in determining if a hit-and-run has occurred.

Juror Guidance on Hit-and-Run Accidents

In Pennsylvania, jurors receive specific instructions for motor vehicle crimes, including the failure to stop after causing property damage. These guidelines, provided by the Pennsylvania Judiciary, help jurors understand the legal standards for incidents. The specific instructions for hit-and-run cases are detailed in the Pennsylvania Suggested Standard Criminal Jury Instructions. For more information, a Mercer DUI lawyer can be a valuable resource.

Legal Representation for Property Damage Hit-and-Run in Mercer County, PA

Sean Logue of Logue Law Group is a legal advocate for individuals charged with hit-and-run offenses, particularly those involving property damage in Mercer and the surrounding Mercer County areas. Whether your incident occurred in a well-known Mercer neighborhood or a nearby city, our firm is ready to review your case.Sean Logue’s expertise in motor vehicle crimes extends across these jurisdictions. He offers strategic defense against hit-and-run charges, leveraging his deep knowledge as a leading Mercer criminal lawyer. If you need guidance, call us at 412.389.0805.