leaving the scene
Several days ago I lost control of my vehicle and ran it off the road late at night. The only damage was to my car, which was substantial. A citizen stopped to help me, and offerred to call a tow truck, but I had no money. I left the scene to get money (also I had been drinking). When I returned the car and everyone was gone. I later found out the citizen contacted the police who had the vehicle towed and took a statement from him. I have yet to file a report. What should I do now? Should I expect to be charged with something? Can I retrieve my belongings from the vehicle?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: leaving the scene
you could be charged with leaving the scene of an accident or failure to report;
I would file a report with the police agency of the area immediately. This is probably a Sheriff Dept. Often, these reports can be done on-line or the form can be acquired on-line. I would keep a copy of what you file and file it in a way that allows you proof of filing it.
You are not required to state that you were drinking or how much. You only need to state that there was an accident, no injury to you or anyone else and who was driving. I would state that you went to get money for a tow truck or to get a way to get the car moved.
I would expect the police to try to get you to make a statement about drinking and driving. Do not! Request an attorney and refuse to answer that question - it is your right. You do not have to tell the police anything. If asked, you can tell them that your statement is in the report. You have no further statement. And if they want more, to contact your attorney.
Get an attorney.
Re: leaving the scene
You can be charged with Failure to report an accident which is a 12 point violation on one's driving record resulting in possible revocation of driving privileges and a class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense which is a jailable offense in some cases.
You need to contact this office and seek legal represention.
Best of Luck
Thank you
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