NJ Leaving the Scene of an Accident Lawyers

NJ Leaving the Scene of an Accident Lawyers

Getting into a car accident is scary enough on its own. Now you’re facing criminal charges for leaving the scene? That’s seriously stressful. But take a deep breath – you’ve got rights. And we’re here to make sure they’re protected.

I want to walk you through what happens if you’re charged with leaving the scene of an accident in New Jersey. We’ll cover the potential penalties, defenses that could help your case, and why working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer is so important. I know this is overwhelming, but knowledge is power. So let’s break it all down…

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Charges in NJ

Under New Jersey law, any driver involved in an accident must immediately stop at the scene. You’re required to provide your name, address, vehicle registration, and insurance information to the other parties involved. That’s just basic common sense stuff we all know we’re supposed to do. But it gets more serious if someone is injured.

If the accident results in injury or death, you must also:

• Call 911 to alert police and medical assistance
• Provide reasonable assistance to injured persons
• Remain at the scene until police have arrived

Failure to follow these laws means you’ve committed the crime of leaving the scene of an accident. And in New Jersey, the penalties for hit and run can be severe:

• Injury Accident – Fines up to $7,500, auto insurance surcharge, up to 180 days jail, and 2 year license suspension
• Serious Injury – Fines up to $10,000, auto insurance surcharge, up to 180 days jail, and 2 year license suspension
• Death – Fines up to $15,000, auto insurance surcharge, up to 180 days jail, and 2 year license suspension

Plus, leaving the scene often leads to additional criminal charges like assault by auto. And keep in mind, these penalties apply even if the accident wasn’t your fault! New Jersey law requires everyone involved to stop, notify police, and assist injured parties no matter who’s to blame.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Defending Against Leaving the Scene Charges in New Jersey

Facing these serious penalties, it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney build the strongest possible case on your behalf. While leaving the scene of an accident is a strict liability offense, there may still be defenses that apply:

• You didn’t know an accident occurred – If you can show no reasonable person would have realized an accident took place, you may not be liable for failing to stop.
• Injury or death happened after you left – You cannot be charged if the serious injury/death happened after you already left the scene.
• Someone else fled the scene – Mistaken identity – the driver who actually left was someone else.
• You returned quickly – Leaving briefly to call police or seek emergency help for yourself may be permitted.
• Medical emergency – You had to leave to get urgent medical care and intended to report the accident later.

A skilled lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case to determine if any viable defenses can get the charges reduced or dismissed. This could involve obtaining accident reconstruction evidence, medical records, GPS data, or witness statements. The goal is to show your actions were legally justified under the circumstances.

Why You Need an Attorney for Leaving the Scene Charges

Trying to fight hit and run charges alone is extremely unwise. These cases can get highly complex with accident forensic evidence, medical issues, insurance claims, and more. An experienced criminal defense lawyer has the resources and knowledge to build the strongest case possible. They can also negotiate more effectively with prosecutors.

Specifically, a good leaving the scene attorney will:

• Aggressively investigate to identify viable legal defenses
• Hire expert witnesses like accident reconstructionists and doctors
• Attempt to get charges reduced or dismissed through negotiations
• Suppress damaging evidence that was obtained illegally
• Develop evidence showing you acted reasonably under the circumstances
• Present persuasive arguments to the judge/jury highlighting your defense

Without a lawyer, you’re extremely unlikely to get charges dropped or minimized. The penalties are too severe to take that risk. So don’t go it alone against the power of the criminal justice system.

Our New Jersey Hit and Run Defense Attorneys Can Help

I know you’re scared and overwhelmed. But you don’t have to handle this alone. My team of compassionate criminal defense attorneys have helped hundreds of clients fight leaving the scene charges. We know which strategies work and won’t stop until we’ve achieved the best possible outcome for your case.

If you or someone you love is facing hit and run charges in NJ, contact us for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, provide honest answers, and start crafting an aggressive defense to protect your rights.