What to do when accused of a hit and run if there was no damage?
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What to do when accused of a hit and run if there was no damage?
I am being accused of a hit and run. I bumped into a vehicle in the drive-thru line. I thought my car was in park and rolled into him not hard at all it was a BUMP. The passenger of the car got out and looked I asked him if there was any damage he said no just a scratch and he rubbed his hand on it and it came off. I told him I was going to pull out. He said okay and I drove away. Now I’m being accused of a hit and run. What should I do?
Asked on January 19, 2012 under Criminal Law, Wisconsin
Answers:
Russ Pietryga / Pietryga Law Office
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
In Utah, a person involved in an accident must immediately and by the quickest means of communication avilable give notece or cause to give notice of the accident to the nearest office oa a law enforcement agency. Additioally, you must give to the persons involved: (1) your name, address, and the registration number of the vehicle being operated; and (2) the name of the insurance provider covering the vehicle being operated including the phone number of the agent or provider. If you fail to do this the prosecutor can charge you with a Class B misdemeanor. Which is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000.00 and jail not to exceed 6 months.
That said, it sounds like there was a simple misunderstanding here. Usually, in this type of case you or your attorney can get it dismissed or significantley reduced after you meet with the prosecutor. Especially, if you are willing to pay for the damages on the other vehicle. Which in this case seems low.
Hope this helps.
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