What Happens If I Leave the Scene of an Accident in Maryland?

After an accident in Maryland, drivers must stay at the scene of the wreck and exchange information with the other driver(s), even if no property damage occurred. If anyone is injured, drivers must stop and help them by calling emergency personnel to get the medical treatment they need.

Suppose you leave the scene of the accident in Maryland before exchanging information and helping any injured parties. In that case, you may be charged with Failure to Stop and Remain at the Scene of an Accident under Maryland Transportation Code § 20-102.

The Law Office of Hillel Traub is an accomplished law firm in Baltimore that has advocated for many clients facing serious traffic offenses such as hit-and-runs. If you’re in this situation, please call our office for a consultation.

What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Car Accident in Maryland?

If someone is injured after a car accident in Maryland, the law requires that you stop and stay, and offer reasonable aid and call emergency medical help if needed. You are not required to perform CPR or perform medical procedures—only what is reasonable to help the injured party without risking your safety.

What Information Must I Give to Other Parties Involved in a Car Accident?

You are required to exchange information with any other driver or injured person involved in the collision. If the police arrive at the scene, you can provide your information to the police officer, who can distribute it to the necessary parties involved.

The information you must provide includes your:

• Name
• Address
• Phone number
• Vehicle registration number
• Insurance information
• Driver’s license number, if requested

Be sure to collect this information from the other drivers involved as well. If no one is present at the accident scene, you must leave this information on a note. If you cannot leave this information on the unattended vehicle, provide it to the nearest police department.

What Are the Penalties for Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Maryland?

If you leave the scene of the accident, you may face harsh criminal penalties. Generally, leaving the scene of an accident in Maryland is a jailable offense that may also involve fines, points on your license, and a suspension or revocation of driving privileges.

The minimum charge for a hit-and-run with property damage in Maryland is a misdemeanor that may involve up to $500 in fines and two months in jail. The penalties depend on the extent of the injuries and the circumstances surrounding the case.

Leaving the scene of an accident will also add points on your license that may lead to a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. Attorney Hillel Traub can help you handle these cases, so the violation does not show on your driving record, depending on your case’s circumstances. It’s possible to also contest license suspensions or revocations at the Maryland Motor Vehicles Administration (MVA), which is a separate matter from any criminal charges related to the accident.

Contact a Highly Skilled Baltimore Hit-and-Run Defense Lawyer

If you’re charged with Failure to Stop and Remain at the Scene of an Accident in Baltimore or across Maryland, you face severe charges that could lead to jail time, fines, and a loss of driving privileges if not handled effectively. You need a seasoned lawyer on your side with experience resolving hit-and-run cases.

The Law Office of Hillel Traub is led by attorney Hillel Traub, whose previous experience includes Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA. With over 20 years of experience, Hillel Traub is the only choice to reach the most optimal outcome in your hit-and-run case.

To speak with Hillel Traub about your hit-and-run or traffic offense, schedule a free consultation by calling (410) 580-1100 or completing an online contact form.