NYC Hit and Run Attorney

Traffic Violation Lawyer in New York City

Being involved in an auto accident can be a terrifying experience, especially if you were the one who caused the crash. Due to the high levels of fear, anxiety and stress involved in such cases, it is often very tempting to drive away from the scene of an accident instead of stopping and waiting for the police to arrive.

However, this is one of the worst things you could do. According to N.Y. VTL §600, leaving the scene of an accident without reporting the incident is a serious traffic violation and is punishable by high fines, time in jail, or both.

Auto Accident Reporting Procedures

Failure to provide this information before leaving the scene of the incident will result in differing penalties, depending on the type of damage and/or injury caused in the accident.

Property Damage: In cases where there the damage was solely to property, leaving the scene without providing all necessary information will result in a fine of up to $250, up to 15 days in jail, or both.

Personal Injury: If personal injury was involved and a motorist leaves without exchanging all necessary information, it is a class B misdemeanor. As such, the violator will face a fine between $250 and $500, in addition to any other penalties. Repeat offenses could be considered a class A misdemeanor, or the offense could even be considered a class E felony if serious injury was involved, or a class D felony if the crash resulted in a death.

Get Help from a New York Traffic Violation Attorney

Accused of leaving the scene of an accident? Fight your charges today with assistance from Gannes & Musico, LLP! With more than 25 years of aggregate experience in New York traffic ticket defense, our legal team could provide the vigorous defense that you need in order to fight your citation.

As a graduate of the Geoffrey Fieger Trial Practice Institute—the nation's most rigorous and comprehensive trial practice training program—Attorney Margo Gannes has the knowledge and skill to defend you. Also, Attorney Philip Musico has handled thousands of cases and has gained a reputation of being one of New York's top trial lawyers.