Hit and Run Attorney in Mercer

Hit and Run Cases: Leaving the Scene of an Accident

In the state of Pennsylvania, all drivers are legally obligated to stop immediately at the site of a collision and exchange specific information with the other parties involved and the police. If a driver flees the scene after an accident—especially one where injuries have occurred—they may face serious felony charges.

For any motorist, facing charges for operating a vehicle under the influence (DUI) or drugs is already a critical legal issue. However, if hit-and-run charges are added to an DUI offense, the legal stakes increase dramatically. Offenders may face severe consequences, including lengthy jail sentences and substantial fines. Additionally, a driver’s license suspension could be imposed for an extended period, affecting their livelihood and daily life.

If you or a loved one has found themselves in this difficult situation—facing hit-and-run allegations alongside a DUI case—securing professional legal representation is essential. Connecting with a skilled Mercer DUI lawyer at Logue Law Group is a wise step toward protecting your future. We offer comprehensive legal assistance and will work tirelessly to develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. If you panicked and fled the scene after an accident, do not wait. Contact our Mercer criminal lawyer immediately for guidance from an experienced legal professional.

Charges for Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Pennsylvania

Under Chapter 4549 of the Pennsylvania Revised Code, three specific statutes govern a motorist’s duty to stop at the scene of a crash. These statutes dictate the legal requirements for:

• Stopping after an accident on public roads or highways — Pennsylvania Revised Code § 4549.02;
• Stopping after an accident on property other than public roads or highways — Pennsylvania Revised Code § 4549.021; and
• Stopping after an accident involving damage to realty or personal property attached to real property — Pennsylvania Revised Code § 4549.03.

When a collision occurs, the motorist must remain at the scene. Whether the incident resulted in personal injury or property damage, the driver is required to stop immediately until they can provide relevant information to the other driver, occupants, or a police officer. The specific details that must be shared include:

• The name and current address of the motorist;
• The name of the vehicle owner (if the driver does not own the car); and
• The registration number of the motor vehicle involved.

This information must be provided to anyone injured in the crash, the operator, owner, or occupant of the damaged property, or any police officer attending to the scene in that area.

Furthermore, if the accident involves unattended property, it is the driver’s responsibility to locate the owner or operator of that property—whether it is a car, a house, or other structure—and inform them about the incident. You must also share the details listed above with them.

If you find yourself in this situation and are unable to locate the property owner, you are required to report the accident to the nearest police department in the jurisdiction where the event took place.

During this stressful time, it is crucial to keep the contact information of a Mercer criminal lawyer accessible. This allows you to report the incident to a legal professional immediately and receive urgent advice on how to proceed. When you need reliable counsel, turn to the team at Logue Law Group.

Penalties Based on Injury Severity

The classification of the crime often depends heavily on the nature of the injuries sustained in the accident:

• If the accident results in no physical injury, it is generally classified as a first-degree misdemeanor.
• If the accident causes serious physical harm or significant injuries, the charge escalates to a fifth-degree felony.
• In the tragic event that the accident causes death, the offense becomes a third-degree felony.

Consult With a Mercer DUI Lawyer

If you have fled the scene of an accident for any reason and require a criminal lawyer to defend your rights, reach out to Logue Law Group. We are dedicated to listening to your side of the story and ensuring you achieve relief from charges or receive the minimum possible penalties. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Mercer criminal lawyer today at 412.389.0805.