Charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident/Hit and Run in Pennsylvania?

A Simple Citation with Serious Consequences

The biggest mistake people make when cited for Leaving the Scene of an Accident, or, what it is commonly referred to, Hit and Run, is that the " Citation is not that serious."

In Pennsylvania, as in many other states, Hit and Run/Leaving the Scene Statutes include serious fines and possible jail time if the Defendant is convicted. Additionally, the Defendant will most likely will receive a letter from Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDot) stating that the license is suspended for a period of time. So, yes, the Citation for Leaving the Scene of an Accident/Hit and Run is very serious.

The relevant statute for Leaving the Scene of an Accident is 75 Pa.C.S. 3742(a), which states:

Accidents involving death or personal injury

(a) General rule.--The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury or death of any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close thereto as possible but shall then forthwith return to and in every event shall remain at the scene of the accident until he has fulfilled the requirements of section 3744 (relating to duty to give information and render aid). Every stop shall be made without obstructing traffic more than is necessary.

(b) Penalties.--

Except as otherwise provided in this section, any person violating this section commits a misdemeanor of the first degree. If the victim suffers serious bodily injury, any person violating subsection (a) commits a felony of the third degree, and the sentencing court shall order the person to serve a minimum term of imprisonment of not less than 90 days and a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000, notwithstanding any other provision of law.

If the victim dies, any person violating subsection (a) commits a felony of the third degree, and the sentencing court shall order the person to serve a minimum term of imprisonment of not less than one year and a mandatory minimum fine of $2,500, notwithstanding any other provision of law.

(c) Authority of sentencing court.--There shall be no authority in any court to impose on an offender to which this section is applicable any lesser sentence than provided for in subsection (b)(2) or (3) or to place such offender on probation or to suspend sentence. Sentencing guidelines promulgated by the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing shall not supersede the mandatory sentences provided in this section.

(d) Definitions.--As used in this section, the term "serious bodily injury" means any bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious, permanent disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.

What to Do if you are Charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident/Hit and Run

Contact an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately before you speak to anyone else. You can possible face jail time if convicted of this citation and you need aggressive defense and the voice of experience to guide you through the criminal process and the administrative process of attempting to revoke your privilege to drive.

Contact Criminal Defense Attorney Frank Walker to Defend Your Rights

Attorney Walker has successfully represented a wide range of clients charged with a summary offense or charged with Criminal Homicide. Attorney Walker has also defended clients charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident/Hit and Run and knows the seriousness of the offense and possible penalties.

Attorney Walker has a reputation for being an aggressive trial attorney, skillful negotiator and tireless worker when handling cases for clients. Clients appreciate Attorney Walker's fearless approach to each case and willingness to fight to make sure justice is served.

Contact Attorney Walker Today at (412) 212-3878 or Toll Free at 800.496.4143 to schedule a consultation and a review of your case.