No matter how a motor vehicle accident occurs, state traffic laws require certain procedures. If we feel we’ve done something wrong, our first impulse might be to flee the scene. However, fleeing the scene of a car accident can result in very serious consequences.
Responding to an Accident
Ohio’s state traffic laws require any driver involved in an accident to stop their vehicle as soon as it is safe. The following steps should then be taken:
- Check on all drivers and passengers and provide basic aid and/or call for emergency help.
- Contact the police; the police will make sure all procedures are followed correctly and help keep evidence preserved.
- Exchange Information: Contact Information, Insurance, and Drivers License.
- Identify witnesses during the accident who could help support facts.
- Get in touch with insurance – yours and the other vehicle’s insurance company.
Colliding with Unattended Property
If you collide with stationary property or an unattended vehicle, do not drive off because “no one saw” the accident. It is important to make an effort to identify the owner of the property you damaged and inform them of what happened.
You can do this by writing a note for the owner with your license number and identifying information. Alternatively, you can write down the vehicle license number of the car you damaged.
Penalties for Fleeing the Scene
The penalties for felony hit and run can be quite severe. Most states impose fines of between $5,000 and $20,000. There is also a very real potential for incarceration as punishment for a felony hit and run.
Depending on the nature of the accident and the injuries that resulted, in some states a felony hit and run is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
A hit and run might also be classified as a misdemeanor instead of a felony. While the term “misdemeanor” sounds relatively minor, in most states misdemeanors are punishable by a significant fine of up to $5,000 and also by up to one year in jail.
If you’ve previously been involved in an accident, give the attorneys at McKenzie & Snyder a call: 513-737-5180
