🚘 Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Florida
Leaving the scene of a crash, also known as hit and run, is a criminal offense under Florida law—and the consequences can be severe. Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony depends on the facts of the case, including whether there were injuries or property damage.
📜 What Florida Law Says
Under Florida Statute § 316.061, any driver involved in an accident must:
- Stop immediately at or near the scene
- Provide driver’s license and insurance information
- Render reasonable assistance if someone is injured
Failure to do so may result in criminal charges, even if the accident seemed minor at the time.
Arrested for leaving the scene of an accident in South florida
🧾 Penalties for Leaving the Scene
Florida law breaks down penalties based on the level of harm caused:
🚗 Property Damage Only (Misdemeanor)
- 2nd-degree misdemeanor
- Up to 60 days in jail
- Up to $500 fine
- Points on your license
🚑 Injury (Felony)
- 3rd-degree felony
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Up to $5,000 fine
- Mandatory license revocation
💀 Death (Felony)
- 1st-degree felony
- Up to 30 years in prison
- Mandatory 4-year minimum sentence
- Permanent license revocation
🛡️ Defending a Hit and Run Charge in Florida
Just because you’re accused of leaving the scene doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Common defenses include:
- You didn’t know an accident occurred
- You tried to stop but left due to safety concerns
- You were not the driver
- There was no injury or damage
An experienced defense attorney can challenge the evidence, question eyewitness testimony, and work to reduce or dismiss the charges.
👨⚖️ Fort Lauderdale Hit & Run Defense Attorney
If you’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida, you need strong legal representation. Attorney Michael White defends clients throughout Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties and fights to protect your freedom and driving privileges.
📞 Call (954) 270-0769 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions: Leaving the Scene in Florida
Q1: Is leaving the scene of an accident always a felony in Florida?
A: No. It’s a misdemeanor if only property was damaged, but it becomes a felony if someone was injured or killed.
Q2: Can I be charged if I didn’t realize I hit something?
A: Possibly—but lack of knowledge can be a valid defense. Your attorney may be able to argue that you had no reasonable way to know.
Q3: Will I lose my license for a hit and run in Florida?
A: Yes. A conviction for hit and run involving injury or death carries a mandatory license revocation.
Q4: Can a hit and run be reduced to a lesser charge?
A: In some cases, yes. A defense lawyer can negotiate for withhold of adjudication, civil resolution, or reduced charges.
Q5: Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor leaving the scene charge?
A: Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction can impact your record, insurance, and job. A lawyer can help you protect your rights and minimize the damage.
