Experienced Hit-and-Run Defense Attorneys in Hackensack, NJ Serving Clients in Passaic County, Hudson County, Essex County, Bergen County, and Throughout New Jersey
When involved in a car accident, whether minor or severe, every driver is legally obligated to stop at the scene, exchange information, and assist anyone injured. Failing to do so is considered a hit-and-run, a serious offense that can carry severe legal consequences. At Camili & Capo, P.A., our New Jersey hit and run lawyers are committed to providing the strong legal defense you need if you’re facing such charges. With extensive experience in criminal and traffic law, we understand the complexities of hit-and-run cases and the strategies necessary to protect your rights.
What Constitutes a Hit and Run in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, a hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without fulfilling their legal obligations. These obligations include stopping immediately, providing identification and insurance information to the other party, and rendering aid to anyone injured.
Key Legal Requirements After an Accident:
- Stop Immediately: You must stop your vehicle at the scene of the accident. Even if the accident is minor, you are required to pull over safely and remain at the scene.
- Exchange Information: You must exchange personal details such as your name, address, and vehicle registration number with the other party involved in the accident.
- Assist the Injured: If anyone is injured, you are required to offer reasonable assistance, which may include calling emergency services or transporting the injured person to the hospital if necessary.
Failing to meet any of these requirements can result in a hit-and-run charge. The severity of the charge and the penalties depend on the specific circumstances of the incident, including whether the accident resulted in property damage, injury, or death.
Legal Consequences of a Hit and Run in New Jersey
Hit-and-run offenses in New Jersey carry significant penalties, which vary based on the severity of the accident and the damage or injuries caused. These penalties are outlined under New Jersey Statutes Title 39:4-129.
- Hit and Run Involving Property Damage: If the hit-and-run incident involves only property damage, it is considered a disorderly persons offense. The penalties can include:
- A fine ranging from $200 to $400.
- Up to 30 days in jail.
- Six-month suspension of your driver’s license.
- Two motor vehicle points added to your driving record.
- Hit and Run Involving Injury: If the accident involves injury to another person, the offense is escalated to a more severe charge. Penalties can include:
- A fine of $2,500 to $5,000.
- Up to 180 days in jail.
- A one-year suspension of your driver’s license.
- Possible civil liability for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Hit and Run Involving Fatality: In cases where a hit-and-run results in the death of another person, the consequences are the most severe:
- A fine of up to $150,000.
- A prison sentence of five to 10 years.
- Permanent revocation of your driver’s license.
- Additional criminal charges such as vehicular homicide.
Beyond the criminal penalties, a hit-and-run driver may face civil lawsuits from the victims or their families. These lawsuits can result in significant financial liabilities, including compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.
Given the severity of these penalties, it’s crucial to have experienced New Jersey hit and run lawyers by your side to navigate the complexities of your case and build a robust defense.
Defenses Against Hit and Run Charges
Facing hit-and-run charges can be overwhelming, but there are several defenses that an experienced attorney can explore. At Camili & Capo, P.A., our hit-and-run defense attorneys in Hackensack, NJ are skilled in identifying and leveraging these defenses to protect your rights and minimize potential penalties.
Common Defenses:
- Lack of Knowledge: In some cases, a driver may not have been aware that an accident occurred. For example, a minor collision might not have been felt or noticed by the driver, especially in situations involving large vehicles or loud environments. If it can be proven that you were unaware of the accident, this can be a valid defense.
- No Actual Contact: If there was no physical contact between the vehicles, it may be argued that no accident occurred. For instance, if you swerved to avoid a collision and no contact was made, you might not be legally required to stop.
- Medical Emergency: If the driver was experiencing a medical emergency at the time of the accident, such as a heart attack or severe injury, this can be used as a defense. The focus would be on whether the emergency impaired the driver’s ability to comply with legal obligations.
- Mistaken Identity: It’s possible that the driver was not the person responsible for the hit-and-run. Eyewitnesses can sometimes make mistakes, and vehicles can be misidentified. Your attorney can challenge the evidence to prove that you were not the driver involved.
- Lack of Damage or Injury: If it can be shown that no significant damage or injury resulted from the incident, the charges might be reduced or dismissed. This is particularly relevant in cases where the property damage was minimal or nonexistent.
Each hit-and-run case is unique, and the best defense strategy depends on the specific details of your case. Our New Jersey hit and run lawyers will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the incident, review evidence, and craft a tailored defense to achieve the best possible outcome.
Why Choose Camili & Capo, P.A.
At Camili & Capo, P.A., we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with facing hit-and-run charges. With years of experience in criminal defense and traffic violations, our hit-and-run defense attorneys in Hackensack, NJ have the knowledge and skills necessary to defend your rights and secure a favorable outcome.
Our Approach:
- Personalized Legal Strategy: We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every case is different, and we take the time to understand your unique situation. We develop a personalized legal strategy tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
- Aggressive Defense: We are committed to fighting for your rights. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and fierce litigators who will pursue every possible avenue to achieve the best results for you.
- Compassionate Support: We know that legal issues can be overwhelming, especially when your future is at stake. Our team provides compassionate support and clear communication throughout the legal process, ensuring that you are informed and comfortable with each step.
- Proven Success: We have a track record of success in defending clients against hit-and-run charges. Our goal is always to reduce or dismiss charges, protect your driving privileges, and minimize the impact on your life.
If you’re facing hit-and-run charges in New Jersey, you need experienced and dedicated legal representation. Contact Camili & Capo, P.A. today to schedule a consultation with our skilled New Jersey hit and run lawyers.
