If I was helping an intoxicated friend out by giving them a ride home after they had a car accident, do I bear any legal liability since I helped them leave the scene?
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If I was helping an intoxicated friend out by giving them a ride home after they had a car accident, do I bear any legal liability since I helped them leave the scene?
This is regarding an incident that occurred last night. My friend was following me back to my house when she hit a parked car (she was drunk). I pulled over to help her move the car from the road but her axle was broken. She was very scared and asked me to drive her home so she could call a tow truck. I drove her home and left (she contacted her parents about what happened). Today I found out that she was arrested for aggravated DWI and hit and run. Do I have any liability in the matter because I drove her home after (i.e. aiding in a hit and run)? I was not trying to help her get away, just help her get home so she could contact her parents and a tow company.
Asked on July 2, 2014 under Criminal Law, New Mexico
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
I would speak with your parents about the matter as soon as you can and seek help from an attorney. It is never okay to leave the scene of an accident and I fear that you could be charged here given the facts as you state them. I understand that you were only trying to help but the law might not see it that way. Good luck.
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