In some cases, it may seem like a good idea to flee the scene of an accident to avoid a DUI charge. However, decisions like this often result in additional charges that could have been avoided. If you have been charged with a DUI and fleeing the scene of an accident, it is imperative that you contact a defense attorney immediately. A Tampa leaving the scene DUI lawyer can greatly impact your case and build a strong defense on your behalf.
At Jeff Marshall Law, we are experienced in handling cases like these, and we strive to treat our clients with compassion. We understand that you are facing many difficulties, and our goal is to support you during this hard time. We can help you carry the legal burden and guide you through each step of the process.
When involved in a car accident in Tampa, Florida, it is illegal to leave the scene before law enforcement has arrived and allowed you to do so. Before being legally able to leave, you must speak with law enforcement and provide certain types of information, such as your name, address, and driver’s license information. You may also be asked to share your insurance information. It is important to comply with each step in this process.
Penalties for leaving the scene of a car accident can range from small fines to points on your license to being required to serve a certain amount of time in jail. The penalty you receive depends largely on the damage you caused in the accident and your criminal history.
While DUI charges and penalties can be harsh in Florida, penalties for fleeing the scene can be as well. In 2022, the state of Florida reported a total of 104,895 hit-and-run crashes, with 266 of those involving fatalities. Fleeing the scene DUI charges often involve increased penalties for two separate crimes: driving under the influence and leaving the scene of a crash.
Leaving the scene of a crash is automatically determined to be a second-degree misdemeanor, which can result in up to $500 in fines and up to 60 days in jail. For those who leave the scene of an accident involving a fatality, the penalties significantly increase. Such individuals can face a first-degree felony charge resulting in between four and 30 years in prison.
If you are facing any of these charges, hiring a lawyer is the next right step. In addition to facing fines and jail time, your driver’s license will likely incur points, and your public reputation may be negatively affected as well. There is no time to lose in securing legal help, especially before it is too late.
When it comes to ruthlessly defending clients in and out of the courtroom, the team at Jeff Marshall Law has what it takes. Recognized by local judges and attorneys, our team has years of proven experience to give you the confidence you deserve when hiring a defense attorney. Based locally in Tampa at 1600 E. Ave, Ste A200, Tampa, FL 33605, we are here to serve you.
Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious charge that often comes with significant consequences. It can be difficult to have such a ticket completely dismissed, although it may be possible. One important factor that should be noted from the beginning is to refrain from admitting fault. While remaining compliant with law enforcement, it can be helpful to refrain from speaking until you are accompanied by a lawyer.
The cost of a DUI lawyer in Florida will vary depending on various factors of your case, such as the severity of your charges, the complexity of your situation, which lawyer you choose, whether or not you have a criminal history, and more. Cost is a factor that you can discuss with your lawyer from the very beginning to avoid any surprises down the road.
While it is not necessarily common for DUI cases to be dismissed in Tampa, Florida, it is possible under the right circumstances. In some cases, it is also possible to have your charges reduced and receive a lesser penalty. In order to secure a dismissal, you will need a strong defense case, which a lawyer can build. Through showing errors made by police or a lack of evidence on behalf of the prosecution, you may be able to have charges dropped.
In the state of Florida, a DUI charge accompanied by leaving the scene can be categorized as either a felony or a misdemeanor. This will be determined based on the severity of the case, including what kind of damage was caused. For cases involving minor damage, you may only receive a misdemeanor charge. However, if serious bodily harm or death was caused to the other driver, a felony charge is more likely.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI and leaving the scene of an accident, it is vital to your case that you reach out for legal counsel immediately. These cases can be time sensitive, meaning the longer you wait to secure legal help, the less likely you are to have your charges reduced or dropped. The state of Florida handles DUI leaving the scene cases seriously, which is why there is no time to waste.
At Jeff Marshall Law, we understand the complexities you are facing. We have helped many individuals like yourself fight DUI leaving the scene charges, and we promise to work tirelessly on your behalf as well. You deserve someone who can build a strong case for your defense. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help and to ask any questions you may have.
Tampa Leaving the Scene DUI Resources: