Every state has established laws regarding traffic crashes. In all states, drivers have certain legal duties and obligations when they’re involved in car accidents. For example, when a driver is in a serious crash, in all states, they have the legal duty to stop their vehicle, see if anyone needs medical attention, and exchange information with the other driver. In Arizona, it’s against the law to be in an accident and leave the scene. This practice is often called “hit and run” or “leaving the scene of an accident.” Even if you’re not at-fault for an accident, you are still required under Arizona law to STOP at the accident scene and perform certain duties. If you flee the scene of an accident, regardless of fault, you can face criminal charges under the Arizona Revised Statutes.
Penalties for Not Stopping
The law regarding hit and run accidents can be found under Section 28-662 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. Under Sec. 28-662, if you’re driving a vehicle and you’re involved in a car crash that results in damage only, you are required to immediately stop your vehicle at the accident scene or close to the accident scene and remain at the scene until you comply with the requirements under Section 28-663, which are to give the other driver:
- Your name, address, and vehicle registration number
- Your driver’s license number upon the other driver’s request
Under Sec. 28-662, if you leave the scene of an accident involving property damage only, you commit a Class 2 misdemeanor. Under Sec. 28-663, if you’re involved in an accident involving bodily injuries or death, you must check to see if anyone needs medical assistance and to arrange it if they do. If you flee the scene of an injury accident under Sec. 28-663, you can face Class 3 misdemeanor charges for not exchanging information with the other driver, and a Class 6 felony for not rendering reasonable assistance to anyone injured in the accident. Next: Sentencing Options in an Arizona Criminal Case
Facing hit and run charges? Contact the Davidson Criminal Defense & DUI Law Firm, PLC.
