Orlando Lawyer Defends Clients Accused of Hit-and-Run Crashes
Determined advocacy for drivers charged with leaving the scene of an accident
Florida law imposes statutory duties on drivers after traffic accidents. But the circumstances of a crash are not necessarily clear, and many drivers do not react predictably in the heat of the moment. If you are accused of leaving the scene of an accident, you face serious legal and personal consequences. Even a minor incident can quickly escalate into a criminal charge. Under such circumstances, you need an experienced Orlando criminal defense attorney. The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. in Orlando can protect your rights from the moment you call. We then work tirelessly to build a strong defense against a hit-and-run allegation.
What leaving the scene of an accident means under Florida law
Under Florida law, leaving the scene of an accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash fails to stop and fulfill their legal responsibilities to exchange information and contact police or emergency personnel. The law applies regardless of fault. Even if another driver caused the accident, you can still face charges if you leave before providing required information or assistance.
Hit-and-run charges can arise from collisions involving property damage, injuries or fatalities. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident, not the driver’s intent or responsibility for the crash itself.
A driver’s legal duties after an accident
Florida law imposes specific duties on drivers involved in an accident. A driver must stop at or near the scene and remain there until their obligations are fulfilled. These duties include providing their name, address, and vehicle registration information, showing a driver’s license upon request and rendering reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured, including calling for medical help if necessary.
In accidents involving unattended property, such as a parked car, the driver must make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or leave written notice with contact information. Failing to meet any of these requirements can lead to hit-and-run charges.
Different levels of hit-and-run offenses
Hit-and-run offenses in Florida range in severity. Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is typically charged as a misdemeanor. If the accident results in injury, the offense becomes a felony, and penalties increase substantially. The most serious charges involve accidents resulting in serious bodily injury or death. These cases carry lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, mandatory license revocation and long-term supervision.
How Florida authorities investigate hit-and-run offenses
Law enforcement agencies use various investigative techniques in hit-and-run cases. Officers collect debris, paint transfer evidence and surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras. Witness statements, license plate readers and vehicle damage comparisons might be used to identify suspects.
Police may also review cell phone data, social media activity and insurance records. In some cases, drivers are charged based on circumstantial evidence, making careful examination of the investigation critical to the defense.
Common defenses to hit-and-run charges
Several defenses can apply depending on circumstances. A driver might not have realized an accident occurred, particularly in minor collisions. The driver might have left the scene due to fear for personal safety or medical emergencies.
Mistaken identity, insufficient evidence or procedural errors by law enforcement can also weaken the prosecution’s case. An Orlando criminal defense attorney can challenge various elements of the government’s allegations to raise reasonable doubt.
How a conviction can impact your future
A hit-and-run conviction can lead to fines, incarceration and other consequences. Criminal records can limit employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing options, and insurance coverage. License suspension or revocation can disrupt daily life and employment. Given the potential stakes, you should retain an accomplished defense lawyer.
Contact a proven Orlando attorney for hit-and-run accident defense
The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. in Orland provides robust defense representation for drivers charged with leaving the scene of an accident. Call 407-608-7777 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
