What responsibilities do drivers have when they are involved in an accident in Florida?

In Florida, drivers involved in accidents are generally expected to stop their vehicles immediately or as soon as possible without obstructing the flow of traffic. They must provide personal, vehicle, and insurance information. If anyone else is injured, the motorist should provide reasonable assistance, such as calling for medical help. You may also be required to report the accident to law enforcement. As the Your obligation to remain at the scene of the accident until you have met all duties required of you applies regardless of whether you hit a pedestrian, an occupied vehicle, an unoccupied vehicle, or unattended property, although the specific duties each of these situations entail and the potential consequences of failing to meet them may differ according to the circumstances.

What are the consequences of a conviction for leaving the scene of an accident in Florida?

If convicted of leaving the scene of an accident, you could face consequences as significant as steep fines and jail time. More severe hit and run offenses, such as those that involve bodily injury or death, can lead to felony charges. For a second-degree felony, which might arise out of an accident that results in serious bodily injury, you could face fines of up to $10,000 and up to 15 years of imprisonment. Third-degree felony charges, resulting from leaving the scene of an accident that involves non-serious injuries, may lead to fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years of imprisonment. Even if the accident only resulted in property damage, you can still be charged with a criminal violation in the form of a second-degree misdemeanor. Not only could you be fined up to $500, but you could be sentenced to up to 60 days in jail.

What should I do if I’ve received a letter from law enforcement stating that my car has been identified as being involved in an accident that is under investigation?

Our firm has become aware that people throughout South Florida have recently begun receiving letters stating that their car has been identified as having been involved in a crash that is the basis of a criminal investigation. Although these letters often fail to provide any details about the circumstances of the alleged incident, they can be intimidating—and they may even warn that criminal charges may be pursued against you. If you’ve received such a letter, you may wonder what you should do next. Do not respond or speak with the police without first consulting an experienced hit and run defense attorney in West Palm Beach, FL. People often cause a simple investigation to turn into an arrest and formal charges just by speaking with the police, even when they were only trying to clear up misunderstandings. Instead, the first thing you should do is call BD Law. We can assess the facts and develop a personalized legal strategy to guide your next moves.

How can a defense lawyer help if I haven’t been charged with leaving the scene of an accident yet?

If you haven’t been charged with a crime yet—only investigated for leaving the scene of an accident—you may consider waiting to take any further action until charges are filed. However, doing so won’t save you the money and hassle you hope it will. Proactive guidance from an experienced leaving the scene defense lawyer is a wise investment that can help you minimize the long-term impact of this legal issue, helping you avoid or reduce penalties such as jail time and steep fines. When you retain BD Law to assist you with investigations into leaving the scene of an accident, you can count on Brandon Dinetz to speak directly with officers on your behalf, conduct an investigation focused on obtaining evidence that supports your defense, and develop the most effective legal strategy possible. Our priorities are to prevent criminal charges from being filed and to keep you fully protected under the law, and we achieve those goals through aggressive advocacy, informed approaches, and unwavering dedication.

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Leaving The Scene Of An Accident

West Palm Beach Leaving the Scene of an Accident Lawyer

Hit and Run Defense Attorney in West Palm Beach, FL Fighting for Clients Accused of Fleeing the Scene of an Accident in Palm Beach County, Broward County, Martin County, and Throughout South Florida

Leaving the scene of an accident in Florida is a serious criminal offense that can carry harsh consequences in the form of both financial burdens and criminal charges. If you have received an intimidating letter from law enforcement stating that your car was involved in a crash that is the basis of a criminal investigation—and warning that criminal charges may be pursued—you could be facing consequences that include license suspension, fines, and even jail time. Speaking with the police could make the situation worse. The first thing you should do is call West Palm Beach leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Brandon Dinetz at BD Law.

Our firm provides proactive support and unwavering advocacy to help you manage this daunting situation with confidence and peace of mind. You can count on your leaving the scene defense lawyer to speak directly with the officers, assert and protect your constitutional rights, and act as the wall between you and law enforcement. Find out for yourself how BD Law can keep you fully protected under the law and potentially even prevent criminal charges from being filed through early legal intervention. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.

What to Do When You’re Being Investigated for Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Whether you have been formally charged with a hit and run or received a letter in the mail from law enforcement informing you of an investigation involving your vehicle, your next steps could affect your future. Here’s what to do—and what not to do—based on our extensive experience providing effective defenses against charges of leaving the scene of an accident.

1. Understand the Situation

Learning that you’re involved in any kind of criminal investigation or charges can be stressful, but try to remain calm and assess the information that has been provided to you. Have you been charged, or are you merely under investigation?

Take this situation seriously, because it could have a significant impact on your future, but don’t lose hope. Remember that there are circumstances within your control that can affect the outcome of this legal matter.

2. Avoid Speaking With Law Enforcement Without an Attorney Present

If you have been notified of an investigation, you may believe that a conversation with the police can clear up any misunderstandings. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. While you may have the best of intentions, law enforcement officers may be more interested in building the case against you than in engaging in an honest dialogue. In some instances, officers may even misrepresent the facts or outright lie to the defendant during police interviews or interrogations.

Do not respond to a letter you receive from law enforcement stating that you are under investigation. You need to take swift, decisive action that furthers your defense, but that doesn’t mean communicating with law enforcement in any capacity without the guidance of a dedicated attorney.

Whether you’re asked to answer “a few” questions as part of an investigation or formally charged and arrested, you have the right to remain silent—and you should use it. Do not resist arrest, but do inform officers that you will not be answering any questions without an attorney present.

3. Consult a Hit and Run Defense Attorney in West Palm Beach, FL, at BD Law

Early legal intervention is critical in influencing the trajectory of the case against you. You can count on attorney Brandon Dinetz to step in and begin managing the situation right away. With our firm representing you, you can rest assured that this legal matter is being handled as effectively as possible.

We’re equipped to speak directly with law enforcement, strategically facilitating cooperation where appropriate while asserting your constitutional rights at every point to protect you as fully as possible. We’ll shield you from improper investigation tactics and common missteps while building a defense strategy that minimizes the consequences of this legal issue as much as possible.

Don’t wait to involve an experienced West Palm Beach leaving the scene of an accident lawyer who is dedicated to your defense. Pre-arrest investigation representation is a powerful tool for putting you on the path to the most favorable outcome possible. The sooner you bring on trusted legal counsel, the more comprehensive support we’re able to provide as we work tirelessly to craft an effective defense strategy.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Charges in West Palm Beach, FL

Under Florida law, drivers involved in a crash are required to stop and exchange information. Failing to do so can result in serious criminal charges.

The sections of Florida Statutes that establish this duty include:

Section 316.063 regarding damaging unattended vehicles and other property
Section 316.061 regarding damaging vehicles or property
Section 316.062 regarding giving information and rendering aid following crashes that result in injury or death
Section 316.027 regarding crashes that involve death, serious bodily injury, and non-serious injury

Depending on the circumstances, the offense of leaving the scene of an accident can lead to either misdemeanor or felony charges. Generally, failing to stop at the scene of a crash that results in only damage to a vehicle or property is a second-degree misdemeanor, while leaving the scene of an accident that causes injury or death constitutes a felony offense in Florida.

Criminal charges for leaving the scene of an accident are serious matters. You may be facing months or even years in prison, even if you have no prior criminal record.

You Can Be Charged With Leaving the Scene Even If You Weren’t at Fault

It’s a common misconception that criminal charges of leaving the scene of an accident occur when a motorist who is clearly at fault for the crash speeds off to avoid the consequences. Importantly, you do not have to be the person who caused the crash to be charged with leaving the scene.

At BD Law, we commonly assist clients throughout South Florida with cases of this nature, sometimes arising out of instances in which a driver genuinely did not realize they were even involved in a minor collision that was not their fault.

Perhaps you continued driving after another motorist bumped or tapped your vehicle with little force, not realizing a collision had actually occurred. Alternatively, you might have stopped initially but, due to a misunderstanding, thought you were free to leave the scene before law enforcement officers were done speaking with you. Either way, you may still face legal consequences for leaving the scene of the crash even if you weren’t the one at fault for the accident.

It’s essential that you retain a West Palm Beach leaving the scene of an accident lawyer who can help you put together a defense strategy to achieve the most favorable outcome possible.

Recent Changes to Florida Law Can Increase Civil Liability

A recent change in Florida law has made the consequences of leaving the scene even more serious. Now, a driver who flees the scene of an accident may be held financially responsible for damages, even if they were not at fault for causing the crash.

This shift in the law increases the risk of civil liability and makes it even more important to consult an attorney immediately if you are involved in—or accused of fleeing—the scene of a collision.

When Do You Need to Consult a Hit and Run Defense Attorney in West Palm Beach, FL?

At BD Law, we assist motorists facing charges of leaving the scene of an accident at all stages of the legal process and in all situations. Our clients turn to us as a trusted West Palm Beach leaving the scene of an accident lawyer when they’re facing investigations or charges that involve any of the following circumstances:

Panicking and fleeing the scene
Leaving the scene of a minor collision that they didn’t even realize they were involved in
Receiving a letter from law enforcement that may say nothing about the circumstances of the alleged incident, but threatens possible pursuit of criminal charges

Regardless of your intent (or lack thereof), the legal consequences of fleeing the scene of a crash in Florida can be severe. You may be facing potential license suspension, fines, probation, and even jail time.

We know how intimidating it is to be facing an investigation or criminal charges in connection with a hit and run accident. We also know how to craft compelling defenses that minimize the impact of leaving the scene of an accident charges on our clients’ lives and their futures.

How BD Law Can Help Defendants Accused of Fleeing the Scene

With thousands of dollars in fines and years of incarceration potentially on the line, you need an effective approach to defending against hit and run allegations. Our firm provides the strong, effective representation and legal support you need through:

A detailed analysis of the initial facts of your case and potential opportunities for defense
Thorough investigations and gathering of all evidence that could support your case
Development of a personalized strategy for achieving the most favorable outcome possible based on the specific facts of your situation
Comprehensive representation throughout all legal proceedings, including support for filing motions, various types of hearings, and the presentation of your case at trial
Skilled advocacy in plea negotiations or efforts to resolve your case through pre-trial intervention or other types of diversion programs, when appropriate

The most beneficial resolution possible when you’re charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Florida varies according to your specific circumstances. Depending on the facts of your situation, we may be able to prevent charges from formally being filed in the first place, get charges dropped or reduced, present compelling arguments in your defense, or advocate for lenient sentencing in the event of a conviction.

In addition to the comprehensive support we provide throughout the legal process, we’re here to answer your questions and offer some peace of mind as you’re dealing with this difficult situation. We can advise you on how to handle a letter from a law enforcement agency stating that your car was involved in a crash that is the basis of a criminal investigation and ensure that you understand your legal rights, the consequences you could be facing, and your options for moving forward.

Why Choose BD Law as Your West Palm Beach Leaving the Scene of an Accident Lawyer?

When you need a leaving the scene defense lawyer who is prepared to fight for you without backing down, you need Brandon Dinetz. Clients trust BD Law with their legal representation due to our firm’s reputation, trial-readiness, and strong advocacy for the accused.

A Reputation Throughout South Florida’s Legal Community

In criminal defense law, reputation matters. Attorney Brandon Dinetz has earned a reputation as a leader—as evidenced by his promotion to Lead Attorney in the State Attorney’s Office during his time as a prosecutor—and a reputable defense attorney who gets results. His commitment to clients and unwavering work ethic have helped him develop strong relationships within the legal community in West Palm Beach and the surrounding areas. The respect he commands among colleagues, opposing counsel, law enforcement, and judges directly benefits the clients who turn to BD Law for powerful representation against serious charges.

A Courtroom Presence Driven by Experience and Insider Knowledge

Brandon Dinetz has experience not only as a defense attorney with a record of getting results for his clients but also as a former prosecutor in the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office. This dual experience means that you benefit from extensive knowledge gained from both sides of the courtroom. With our insider’s perspective, we know how local prosecutors approach cases like yours and how to deal with them effectively. Our history of practicing criminal defense law ensures we’re ready to overcome challenges and develop successful strategies for presenting the strongest possible case for you.

Aggressive Representation to Protect Your Rights

With serious consequences on the line, you need an attorney who is dedicated to building you the strongest possible defense. At BD Law, we provide aggressive advocacy for every client, ensuring they receive the full protections they’re entitled to under the law. We bring to each case the benefits of an impressive courtroom presence, ensuring that you’ll never be pressured into agreeing to an unfavorable plea deal just to avoid going to trial. Although we explore all options available to our clients, including motions for dismissals, diversion programs, and plea negotiations when appropriate, we are always willing to take a case to trial if that avenue offers our clients the most promising path forward.

Contact a West Palm Beach Leaving the Scene of an Accident Lawyer at BD Law Today for a Free Case Review

At BD Law, we understand how quickly what started as a simple misunderstanding can turn into a legal crisis. You shouldn’t be subjected to harsh, life-altering penalties for a simple mistake or a misunderstanding, and you shouldn’t face the challenging legal process alone. Let our leaving the scene defense lawyer help you navigate it from the start, paving the way for an effective defense strategy that protects your future.

For help from a hit and run defense attorney in West Palm Beach, FL, contact BD Law online or call (561) 778-5213 today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leaving the Scene of an Accident Criminal Charges in West Palm Beach and Throughout Florida

In Florida, drivers involved in accidents are generally expected to stop their vehicles immediately or as soon as possible without obstructing the flow of traffic. They must provide personal, vehicle, and insurance information.
If anyone else is injured, the motorist should provide reasonable assistance, such as calling for medical help.
You may also be required to report the accident to law enforcement. As the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reported, drivers are required to report the accident to the police if it causes injury, death, or vehicle or property damage estimated to be at least $500.
Your obligation to remain at the scene of the accident until you have met all duties required of you applies regardless of whether you hit a pedestrian, an occupied vehicle, an unoccupied vehicle, or unattended property, although the specific duties each of these situations entail and the potential consequences of failing to meet them may differ according to the circumstances.
If convicted of leaving the scene of an accident, you could face consequences as significant as steep fines and jail time.
More severe hit and run offenses, such as those that involve bodily injury or death, can lead to felony charges. For a second-degree felony, which might arise out of an accident that results in serious bodily injury, you could face fines of up to $10,000 and up to 15 years of imprisonment. Third-degree felony charges, resulting from leaving the scene of an accident that involves non-serious injuries, may lead to fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years of imprisonment.
Even if the accident only resulted in property damage, you can still be charged with a criminal violation in the form of a second-degree misdemeanor. Not only could you be fined up to $500, but you could be sentenced to up to 60 days in jail.
Our firm has become aware that people throughout South Florida have recently begun receiving letters stating that their car has been identified as having been involved in a crash that is the basis of a criminal investigation. Although these letters often fail to provide any details about the circumstances of the alleged incident, they can be intimidating—and they may even warn that criminal charges may be pursued against you. If you’ve received such a letter, you may wonder what you should do next.
Do not respond or speak with the police without first consulting an experienced hit and run defense attorney in West Palm Beach, FL. People often cause a simple investigation to turn into an arrest and formal charges just by speaking with the police, even when they were only trying to clear up misunderstandings. Instead, the first thing you should do is call BD Law. We can assess the facts and develop a personalized legal strategy to guide your next moves.
If you haven’t been charged with a crime yet—only investigated for leaving the scene of an accident—you may consider waiting to take any further action until charges are filed. However, doing so won’t save you the money and hassle you hope it will. Proactive guidance from an experienced leaving the scene defense lawyer is a wise investment that can help you minimize the long-term impact of this legal issue, helping you avoid or reduce penalties such as jail time and steep fines.
When you retain BD Law to assist you with investigations into leaving the scene of an accident, you can count on Brandon Dinetz to speak directly with officers on your behalf, conduct an investigation focused on obtaining evidence that supports your defense, and develop the most effective legal strategy possible. Our priorities are to prevent criminal charges from being filed and to keep you fully protected under the law, and we achieve those goals through aggressive advocacy, informed approaches, and unwavering dedication.