Driving while intoxicated lowers inhibitions which leads people to make poor decisions they would usually not make. Deciding to leave the scene of an accident without going through the proper procedures is one such example. However, in Utah and nationwide, leaving the scene of an accident could result in even worse penalties than if you had not.
Some may decide to leave a scene out of pure panic. Others may realize that they were at fault because of negligence or other behaviors that driving under the influence promotes and their intoxications let them leave the scene without feeling the responsibility of their actions. Some may even feel leaving the scene of an accident is their best option to avoid penalty. However, in most situations, there will be someone to witness the accident and catch the details of the vehicles involved. It may take some time, but authorities are likely to identify any vehicle that leaves the scene
If panic, lowered inhibitions, or another reason caused you to leave the scene of an accident, it is urgent that you contact a Salt Lake City DUI hit and run attorney. While you should do so for the obvious reasons of preparing a defense, you could also have your attorney reach out to authorities and notify them that you left the scene of an accident. This can prevent authorities from contacting you directly and obtaining damning evidence against you.
Joseph Jardine and Peter Goodall have spent over 15 years in courtrooms across Utah. In their time, they have amassed the experience and success necessary to provide them confidence no matter the situation. Reach out to Jardine Law Offices P.C. today to begin planning your next move.
In Utah, there are four categories that qualify as leaving the scene. The first involves accidents where the property is damaged. It is your responsibility to exchange or leave information if any damage was caused to another property. Failing to do so could result in a Class B misdemeanor. Penalties include thousands in fines and up to six months of jail time.
If you left the scene of a DUI hit and run that caused an injury, you must stay to exchange information. Failing to do so could result in a class A misdemeanor. Penalties for a class A misdemeanor include a possible year in jail and thousands of dollars in fines.
The third situation where you cannot leave the scene of an accident is if a serious injury was accrued. If this is the case, possible felony charges await. Penalties include a potential five-year jail sentence and thousands of dollars in fines. The fourth situation, which carries similar penalties to serious injury, is if a death occurred as a result of the accident.
In Salt Lake City, reckless driving is a serious concern that affects the safety of our roads. With the bustling traffic and the unique challenges posed by our mountainous terrain, it’s crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and responsible. Local authorities, including the Salt Lake City Police Department, are actively working to combat reckless driving behaviors that can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Many residents may find themselves in situations where they feel pressured to make hasty decisions behind the wheel, whether due to the fast-paced lifestyle or the stress of daily commutes. This can lead to reckless driving incidents, which not only endanger the driver but also put other road users at risk. The consequences of reckless driving in Utah can be severe, including hefty fines, points on your driving record, and potential jail time. Understanding these risks is essential for every driver in our community.
Don’t let a moment of reckless driving define your future. Reach out to us today to discuss your situation and explore how we can assist you in moving forward.
Speak with top Salt Lake City DUI hit and run attorneys—call (801) 451-9555 or reach out online for a consultation.
If you left the scene of an accident, a DUI hit and run attorney can provide invaluable assistance. They can help you navigate the legal complexities of your situation, potentially mitigating the penalties you face. An attorney can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, which may prevent them from gathering incriminating evidence against you. Additionally, they can develop a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances and work diligently to protect your rights throughout the legal process. Engaging an attorney early can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Choosing Jardine Law Offices P.C. for your DUI hit and run case means you are partnering with a team that has decades of legal experience and a proven track record of success. Our deep understanding of local laws and commitment to client advocacy means that you receive personalized attention and a robust defense strategy. We prioritize your rights and work diligently to pursue a favorable outcome for your case. With our support, you can feel confident in addressing the challenges ahead.
Whatever your DUI hit and run situation, time is of the essence. Contact an experienced Salt Lake City DUI attorney as soon as time permits. Doing so will give you the best chance at reduced penalties. For a free consultation, contact us today.
