Have you been involved in a Traffic Accident in the City of Norfolk? If the answer is Yes, then you may be both physically and mentally stressed. Drivers involved in accidents usually experience fear, panic, and a desire to still reach their planned destination. However, all Virginia drivers are legally obligated to report traffic accidents. Leaving the scene of the crime without waiting for/contacting the authorities is a crime. If you have done so then you need to contact an attorney immediately. Hit and Run is a serious crime in Virginia and the punishment can vary depending on several specifics. Dorsk Law Office, Plc. is a criminal defense firm with experience in hit and run cases. We may be contacted any time of day.

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Defending Norfolk residents charged with hit and run after having fled the scene of an accident

 

Hit and run occurs when one flees the scene of an auto accident. Virginia law places drivers under a number of obligations when they accept their driver’s license. These obligations include:

• Stopping your vehicle as close to the scene of an accident as is safe

• Providing reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured

• Providing your name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration number to local authorities

• Reporting your accident to law enforcement as soon as reasonably possible in the event that your injuries prevent you from doing the above

• Making an effort to locate the owner in the event that your accident involves an unattended vehicle. If you cannot you must leave a note with your contact information and report the accident to police within 24 hours.

Failure to complete any of the above obligations may lead to criminal charges. The crime may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the specifics. The extent of the charges will primarily depend on the amount of property damage caused, whether there has been an injury or death, and your knowledge at the time of the accident. The penalties for hit and run can be extensive and may include prison time in more extreme cases. If you have been involved in a hit and run it is important you reach an attorney immediately even if the police have not contacted you yet.

Dorsk Law Office, Plc. is an experienced Norfolk criminal defense firm which has handled numerous hit and run matters. We will aggressively protect your rights from the initial arraignment through a trial. Once retained, our office will visit the scene of the incident and begin interviewing any relevant witnesses so that we may build the best defense possible on your behalf. We will also work to establish mitigating factors which relate to your knowledge at the time of the accident, injuries that may have impacted your judgement, and determine if the incident occurred under special circumstances. Hit and run is a serious crime and you need an attorney experienced in this area. Contact us today.