Hit-and-Run Attorney in New Castle

Understanding Hit-and-Run Cases: Leaving the Scene of an Accident

In Ohio, all drivers involved in an accident are legally required to stop and exchange relevant information. If a driver involved in an accident that causes injuries decides to flee the scene, they could face felony charges. For any motorist, a charge for operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) of drugs or alcohol is already a significant concern. When a hit-and-run charge is added, the legal consequences can become much more severe, potentially including lengthy jail sentences, substantial fines, and long-term driver’s license suspensions.

If you or someone you know is facing charges for both a hit-and-run and a DUI, securing professional legal representation is crucial. Reaching out to a New Castle DUI lawyer at Youngstown Criminal Law Group is a decisive step toward protecting your rights. We provide comprehensive legal support and work to build a strong defense tailored to your situation. If you have left the scene of an accident, do not hesitate to seek immediate help from our New Castle criminal lawyer.

Charges for Leaving an Accident Scene in Ohio

Chapter 4549 of the Ohio Revised Code contains three key statutes that outline a driver’s duty to stop after an accident. These statutes are:

• Ohio Revised Code § 4549.02: Stopping after an accident on public roads or highways.
• Ohio Revised Code § 4549.021: Stopping after an accident on property other than public roads or highways.
• Ohio Revised Code § 4549.03: Stopping after an accident involving damage to real estate or personal property attached to it.

When an accident happens, whether it results in personal injury or property damage, the driver must stop immediately. They are required to remain at the location until they can provide specific details to the other driver or a police officer. This essential information includes:

• The driver’s full name and address.
• The name of the vehicle’s owner if it is not the driver.
• The motor vehicle’s registration number.

This information should be given to anyone injured in the crash, the owner or occupant of the damaged property, or any law enforcement officer present. It is also the driver’s duty to find the owner or operator of the damaged property, such as a car or house, to report the incident and share the required details. If you cannot find the property owner, you must report the incident to the nearest police department. Having the contact information for a skilled New Castle DUI lawyer is important in these moments for immediate legal guidance. For expert advice, turn to Youngstown Criminal Law Group.

The classification of the crime depends on the severity of the injuries:

• First-degree misdemeanor: If the accident does not cause any injuries.
• Fifth-degree felony: If the accident results in serious physical harm.
• Third-degree felony: If the accident leads to a person’s death.

Consult With a New Castle Criminal Lawyer

If you have left the scene of an accident and need a criminal lawyer to represent you, contact Youngstown Criminal Law Group. We will carefully review the details of your case and work towards achieving a dismissal of charges or minimizing potential penalties. A New Castle DUI lawyer from our Youngstown Criminal Law Group is ready to help. To get more information or to book a consultation, please get in touch with us today. Call us at (330) 992-3036.