A hit and run accident is a distressing experience for the victim due to the financial burden of paying for damages. It’s even worse when you also have to foot medical bills because of the injuries. The driver at faulty- one who flees the scene of accidents- in Missouri can face serious legal consequences.

Whether you are a victim of a hit and run, or you are at fault in a hit and run in Missouri, you need to understand what is in store for you.

What to do after an accident

Under Missouri law, you are required to stop after being involved in a crash. You should call the police and report the accident. If there is anyone injured, ask for medical assistance immediately  by calling 911. You can then put your car’s hazard lights on to warn incoming traffic.

Meanwhile, collect evidence by taking photographs and notes to make sure you don’t forget important details. Finally, you can exchange contact information with the other driver. Then you can only leave the scene after the police have permitted you to leave.

What makes a hit and run

A driver who decides to drive away from the scene of the accident commits a hit and run. According to Missouri rules, hit and run is a criminal offense that has dire consequences. In most cases, hit and run Missouri is a misdemeanor but can be regarded as a felony under some circumstances.

Penalties for a hit and run

Leaving an accident scene is a misdemeanor in Missouri that is punishable with a one-year jail sentence and a fine of $1,000, in addition to 12 points on your driving license.

Hit and run can become a class D felony if the accident results in;

(i) Physical injury to another party

(ii) Property damage of worth more than $1,000, or

(iii) If the defendant has previously been convicted or pleaded guilty of the violation of hit and run

If you have been charged with hit and run as a class D felony, you face charges that include up to 4 years in prison, and a fine adding up to $5000

Consequences for pleading guilty for a hit and run

It is recommended to talk to a traffic attorney before you plead guilty for a hit and run offense. A competent attorney will look at your case and advice you on the best action.

If, however, you decide to plead guilty for a hit and run in Missouri, you will face some consequences. Here is what will happen if you plead guilty;

• Your driver’s license may be revoked up to a period of one year
• You will not be eligible for a hardship license in the event your license is revoked(limited driving privilege)
• You may have to appear in court to be sentenced by a judge
• Points added to your driving record (12 points if you are issued a ticket by a Missouri state officer or 6 points if a municipal or county police officer issues the ticket.)

License suspension after a hit and run incident

If an uninsured vehicle is involved in a hit and run, the state of Missouri can suspend the licenses of both the car owner and the driver.

License suspensions will also apply to those drivers who flee the scene of an accident after causing the accident and fail to pay for the damages.

 

If you have been charged for “leaving the scene of an accident” ticket in Missouri, you should contact KC Defense Counsel. Our experienced traffic attorneys will reduce the 6-point or 12-point ticket to a non-moving, no-point violation. Our traffic lawyer will also handle every aspect of your case, including court appearances.

 

 

 

 

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