Penalties for Fleeing the Scene of a Car Accident

By Eric Hamilton

May 20, 2020 05:40 PM EDT

Penalties for Fleeing the Scene of a Car Accident(Penalties for Fleeing the Scene of a Car Accident) (Credit: Getty Image)

Leaving the scene of an accident, also known as a hit-and-run, is a serious crime in both Missouri and Illinois. In both states, you are required to stop your vehicle either at the scene of the crash or as close as possible to the scene of the crash where you can be safe, such as on the shoulder.

Consequences Leaving The Scene of An Accident in Missouri

According to Missouri statute RSMo 577.060, leaving the scene of an accident is a Class-A misdemeanor. It carries with it a one-year jail sentence and a $1,000 fine. Additionally, you will have points assessed to your license. If you were stopped by a Missouri State Highway Patrol officer, then 12 points will be assessed to your license. If you were stopped by a city, municipal, or county officer, then 6 points will be assessed to your license.

But if you caused physical injury to another person, property damage of over $1,000, or if you previously played guilty or convicted of a hit-and-run, then your charges will be raised to a Class-E felony. This carries with it a prison sentence of up to 4 years, plus a $5,000 fine. 

Consequences Leaving The Scene of An Accident in Illinois

According to Illinois law, leaving the scene of an accident is also Class-A misdemeanor. Under this state's laws, however, you will receive a $2,500 fine and possibly even probation for up to two years. And as in Missouri, you will have points assessed to your license. 

Factors That Affect Your Consequences

The judge is going to look at your driving record and the police report. If there was property damage or if someone was severely injured or killed, then those will be considered aggravating factors in your case. A prior history of arrests for DUI in any state will be brought up as well. 

You are required to notify law enforcement of an accident immediately. Delaying reporting will look suspicious in front of the judge and negatively impact your case. Remember, anytime you are in an accident that involved property damage, you are required to exchange your information (name, address, phone number, the insurance company, and policy number) with the other driver. Not doing so, or intentionally giving the other driver false information is also considered a Class-A misdemeanor.

What You Should Do After An Accident

There are some things you can do to protect yourself from being accused of a hit-and-run. First, be sure to check on the other people in the other vehicle. If your accident occurred at night then turn on your interior lights so the other driver can see that you don't pose a threat to them, similar to how you should respond when pulled over by police. Both you and the other person will be experiencing a lot of feelings, but stay calm and alert the other driver that you will call the police. However, if they have been injured then call 911 right away. Tell the operator that there is an injured victim who needs an ambulance. 

Next, you should hire an attorney. If you're in St. Louis or the surrounding areas, then car accident lawyers Hipskind & Mcaninch are eager to listen to your situation and are happy to guide you through the legal process.

© 2024 VCPOST, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Join the Conversation

Real Time Analytics