Legal Question in Traffic Law in Wisconsin

hit and run

I hit a parked car on the side of the road on my way home from pool league. It was late and I was tired and just wanted to go home. I was with someone and she wanted to do the same. I walked her home and walked the rest of the way because I was only about a block from my home. The next day I contacted the police and told them what happened. Pool league is at a bar and I had 4 drinks within a five hour span. When I talked to the officer I told him at first that my car was stolen. Then as I was talking to him I told him the truth and that I was going through a depressing time because of how screwed I will be financially. I then told him that I need to be responsible for my actions and that is why I will tell the truth. I'm wondering if they can charge me for drunk driving if they have no proof. I am also wondering what I can be charged with, how much money this will cost, and if there is any possibility of jail time. Is this is something I should have an attorney for? Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.


Asked on 11/04/07, 6:00 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
JAY Nixon nixon law offices

Lying About a Hit and Run--False Claim of a Stolen Vehicle

Any time one lies to an officer who is on duty, one is guilty of a misdemeanor which is known in WI as "obstructing an Officer." It carries a maximum of nine months in jail and a $10,000 fine. However, if the lie was only momentary and you "came clean" before the officer acted upon it, many officers would tend to forgive it. The final decision in charging is made by the district attorney, who frequently follows the officer's recommendations. Charging a person with drunken driving a day after the event and with no testing evidence would be extremely rare in WI. I would highly recommend that you obtain the advice of an experienced criminal lawyer as soon as possible and before you make any more decisions. Depending upon your record, some jail is certainly a possibility in this scenario. Voluntarily paying for the damages to the parked vehicle in advance of court, however, could help you to get a lesser sentence, as could voluntarily obtaining treatment for your drinking problem. Good Luck!

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Answered on 11/06/07, 2:34 pm


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