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Getting into a hit and run accident can be terrifying, and human instinct might push you to make rash decisions. However, what you do after the incident can significantly impact your legal fate. Our attorneys offer critical advice to help you avoid piling on more serious charges.
Don’t Make Things Worse:
- Never Report Your Vehicle Stolen: It might seem like an easy out, but reporting your car stolen after a hit and run is a felony and can lead to charges like making a false police report and conspiracy, exposing both you and your family to severe penalties. Judges and prosecutors view these actions much more harshly.
- Don’t Lie to Your Insurance Company: Filing a false insurance claim is also a felony. It’s better to remain silent about what happened than to lie, which destroys your credibility and incriminates you further.
- Resist the Urge to Revisit the Scene: Going back to the accident scene to “investigate” yourself is a bad idea. You’re likely to be stopped, questioned, or arrested, and you’ll only provide more evidence that you were the driver. Remember, police must prove you were driving to pin a hit and run on you. Don’t help them build their case!
What You Should Do:
- Cooperate with Your Insurance (Carefully): Be aware that your insurance policy likely requires you to cooperate by telling them what happened. Failing to do so could void your coverage, leaving you personally responsible for all damages. This is a delicate balance, so proceeding with legal counsel is key.
- Don’t Involve Loved Ones in a Cover-Up: It’s tempting to seek help from family or friends, but getting them involved in hiding the car, fixing damage, or lying for you can lead to them facing serious charges like conspiracy or being an accessory after the fact. Protect your loved ones by keeping them out of it.
- Call a Specialist Attorney Immediately: This is the most crucial step. Do not call a general practitioner or a friend’s lawyer who handles other types of law. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in hit and run cases. They can guide you through the complexities, prevent you from making common mistakes, and significantly improve your legal outcome.
Making mistakes early on in a hit and run situation can lead to much greater liability, higher sentences, and significant financial expense. Be smart, prioritize legal advice, and protect your future.