How best to defend against leaving the scene of an accident?
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How best to defend against leaving the scene of an accident?
I’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident. My power steering locked up around a turn and I hit a tree. Zero property damageand no personal damage was involved. The owner of the private property has no quarrel with me either. I left my car to see if a friend with a winch could pull me out and save the tow cost. Obviously I was questioned concerning alcohol consumption, however, this is erroneous. How concerned should I be with this citation? Should I speak with a criminal defense attorney? In Hamilton County, TN.
Asked on July 14, 2011 under Criminal Law, Tennessee
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Generally speaking, every state, city, county, Provence has on its books a law that requires that you call the police and file a report even in a one car accident. Even if there was no damage done to any one or any thing. It is a law and although here it seems to be trivial in the bigger picture you can see how it matters. So I would take the citation seriously and consult with an attorney in your area on the matter. The fact that there is no "complaining witness" - like the property owner is a plus for you but does not preclude the state or county from convicting you for the offense. Good luck.
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