Hit and Run Accident in New Jersey

CAUGHT LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT IN NJ?
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The intricacies behind a hit and run in any situation are very complex. The outcome to the pedestrian may be marred by death, permanent physical incapacitation, or temporary injuries. On the other hand, the driver is met with the dilemma of unintentionally causing an accident, rage from the on-lookers and the uncertainty of their fate. (Castriota & Tonin, 2019) “Hit and run” is formally referred to as Leaving the Scene an Accident, under NJSA 39:4-129. When individuals leave the scene of an accident, there is a criminal effect that can come to fruition due to the actual actions of not remaining at the scene and waiting for law enforcement officials and personnel to arrive to give assistance. 

The distraught a driver may face after an automobile accident were put in consideration when devising an outline of steps to take. The ground rule is that the driver must never leave the accident scene, as it would amount to another criminal charge. As expressed above, if there is the chance that the driver does, in fact, leave the scene, then it is more complicating on the basis that there are criminal consequences and repercussions that can come to be and occur. It is with that in mind, where the driver is expected to stop the car, and wait for the police, or in the event where the police are not available, to report to the nearest police station. There is also an obligation to accord the injured party medical assistance upon fulfilling the other two requirements in case no other person is able to help, and then later report to the nearest police station. This can ensure and help that assistance will be provided to the person who is being impacted and affected. 

Failure to adhere to the set requirements warrants several penalties. The charges are determined by the degree of harm caused. For instance, a mere fender bender would attract citation, but leaving the scene of crime would attract additional charges. Severe implications such as death or serious injury and additional offense of leaving the crime scene could accumulate to hefty fines of up to $5000, imprisonment of 6 months, and an 8-point-deduction from driving record and suspension of drivers’ license. Furthermore, if you were caught Driving Under The Influence in NJ, that would add additional charges and at that point you should consult with one of our Hit & Run Lawyers. The mitigation factors that are the burden of the accused can be afforded by an attorney, to counter the culpability of the respective hit-and-run-driver. For instance, inability to provide reasonable assistance may have prompted the need to find someone who may help.

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