Maryland hit and run Penalties
When an accident occurs, all drivers involved in the collision must remain at the scene until they’ve made sure everyone is safe, without injuries, and that they’ve exchanged the necessary information. Someone must also contact emergency medical assistance and local law enforcement if there are severe injuries or property damage. Leaving the scene of an accident, also known as a hit and run, is extremely dangerous and punishable by criminal penalties.
Many individuals who left the scene of the accident before performing their duty of care to others are often either frightened or unaware of their responsibilities. Attorney Hillel Traub at The Law Office of Hillel Traub has experience representing Maryland hit and run clients and will do everything in his power to provide you with the best possible outcome. Trust our firm and schedule a consultation as soon as possible.
What Are Maryland’s Hit and Run Laws?
Maryland has strict penalties for those who leave the scene of an accident before completing their duty of care to the other drivers or pedestrians. If the collision results in a serious bodily injury, a hit and run is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. Maryland Transportation Code § 27-113 also explains that if the crash results in death, leaving the scene may lead to up to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
Contact your hit and run lawyer immediately if you’ve been arrested for a hit and run accident. Anything you say may be used against you, so it’s best to wait until your hit and run attorney arrives before providing any details or information to law enforcement or any other parties involved. Even if officers are convincing and only ask simple questions, keeping silent is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your rights.
Why Do Hit and Run Crashes Happen?
One moment, you’re driving down a familiar road and the next, you’re turning a corner and crashing into another vehicle. Whether you or the other driver was at fault, adrenaline and fear can make you panic and potentially make a mistake while driving. Instead of getting out of your car to check on the other party, you decide to leave the crash scene. There are many reasons why you may leave, some of which include:
- Driving without a license
- Driving without car insurance
- Speeding or driving recklessly
- Wanting to avoid the police
- You have previous criminal activity
- Wanting to avoid getting points on license
- Noticing that someone was likely injured and not knowing how to help
Since most areas have surveillance cameras, technology has made it easier for law enforcement to find an individual involved in a hit and run accident. It’s vital that you speak with your hit and run attorney as soon as possible after a hit and run accident. They will provide you with guidance on your best options.
When Should I Contact a Hit and Run Attorney?
The sooner you speak with a hit and run lawyer, the more time they have to come to your defense and guide you through the best course of action for your case. With experience and knowledge, they understand the possible penalties and defense strategies that may work in your favor during your case. You also risk suffering severe criminal penalties when you don’t have a hit and run lawyer protecting you and your rights.
Consider a few examples of the many ways a hit and run lawyer will assist you throughout your case:
- Providing answers to your case-related questions
- Negotiating with the judge and plaintiff’s lawyer
- Guiding you through the legal defense process
- Collecting information and evidence for your case
- Building a solid defense strategy
- Interviewing eyewitnesses of your accident
An accident may cause you to think unclearly in the moment. When people are in stressful situations, their fight or flight response kicks in, and they may make a decision they usually wouldn’t. There are many reasons and defenses, but you’ll need legal representation to advocate on your behalf. Without their help, you and your rights could be in danger.
Work With an Experienced Maryland Hit and Run Lawyer Today
Attorney Hillel Traub believes that everyone deserves dependable and professional legal representation. With years of experience in Maryland’s legal community and from when Traub used to work at the MVA, The Law Office of Hillel Traub works with a solid community of professionals to provide clients with highly qualified resources.
We understand how challenging a hit and run case is and will protect you throughout the process. Hit and run attorney Hillel Traub offers legal services tailored to your specific needs. Schedule a consultation today by calling (410) 580-1100 or by filling out our contact form.
