WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’VE BEEN CHARGED IN A HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT IN MISSOURI?

ACCIDENT

Being charged in a hit-and-run accident is one of the most serious traffic-related offenses in Missouri. Even if no one was hurt, prosecutors and judges treat these cases harshly because leaving the scene suggests irresponsibility or trying to avoid accountability.

If you’ve been charged in a Missouri hit-and-run accident, you need an experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyer on your side — whether as the driver in a minor fender bender or a more serious accident — you need to act quickly to protect your license, your record, and your freedom.

WHAT MISSOURI LAW SAYS ABOUT HIT-AND-RUN

Under Missouri Revised Statute 577.060, drivers involved in an accident must:

  • Stop immediately at or near the scene.
  • Provide identifying information (name, address, insurance, driver’s license).
  • Render aid if anyone is injured.

Failing to do this can lead to charges for leaving the scene of an accident, commonly called “hit-and-run.”

PENALTIES FOR HIT-AND-RUN IN MISSOURI

The severity depends on the accident:

  • Property Damage Only (no injuries)
  • Class A misdemeanor
  • Up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000
  • 12 points on your driving record (leading to license revocation)
  • Accident Involving Injury or Death
  • Class D felony or higher
  • Up to 7 years in prison and large fines
  • Long-term license suspension or revocation

Even a first-time offense can have devastating consequences for your future.

STEPS TO TAKE IF YOU’VE BEEN CHARGED AFTER A HIT-AND-RUN

Do Not Make Statements Without an Attorney: Police and prosecutors may try to get you to admit guilt or “explain what happened.” Anything you say can be used against you.

Contact an Experienced Traffic Defense Lawyer Immediately: Hit-and-run is not a ticket you can just pay. It’s a criminal charge that requires a strong defense.

Gather Evidence: Photos, witness statements, and vehicle repair records may help your case.

Understand Both the Criminal and Civil Consequences: You may face a criminal charge in court and civil liability for damages or injuries.

Explore Legal Defenses — Possible defenses include:

  • You didn’t realize an accident occurred.
  • You were not the driver.
  • Emergency circumstances forced you to leave.
  • The prosecution lacks sufficient evidence.

HIRE THE RIGHT EXPERIENCED MISSOURI HIT-AND-RUN LAWYER FOR YOU

At Speeding Ticket KC, we handle serious traffic charges like leaving the scene of an accident. We work to:

  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
  • Negotiate for reduced charges when possible.
  • Protect your license from revocation.
  • Fight for dismissal if the facts don’t support the charge.

A Missouri hit-and-run charge is a serious criminal matter that can lead to jail time, heavy fines, and loss of your license. If you’ve been charged, do not wait or assume the case will “go away.”

Missouri traffic laws can be complicated, and one mistake can cost you for years. That’s why Speeding Ticket KC offers experienced, affordable representation for drivers facing tickets in Kansas City and beyond.

Our affordable Kansas City traffic defense team knows how to negotiate with prosecutors, challenge the evidence, and get results. Call us today to start fighting your ticket before it’s too late.

Contact Speeding Ticket KC immediately. We’ll fight to protect your record, your license, and your future.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.

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