Florida Statute §316.027 / §316.061 | Classification: Second-Degree Misdemeanor to First-Degree Felony
What Is This Charge?
Florida law requires any driver involved in a crash to immediately stop, remain at the scene, provide identifying information, and render reasonable aid to injured persons. Failure to do so is a criminal offense.
Penalties & Fines
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Crash involving only property damage: Second-Degree Misdemeanor — up to 60 days jail, $500 fine
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Crash involving injury to another person: Third-Degree Felony — up to 5 years, $5,000 fine
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Crash involving death: First-Degree Felony — up to 30 years; mandatory minimum 4 years
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Driver’s license revocation upon conviction
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Restitution to victims and their families
Additional Consequences
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Permanent criminal record
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Civil liability to the victim or their family
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Insurance consequences
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Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Possible Defenses
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You were unaware that an accident had occurred (no knowledge of impact)
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You stopped as soon as it was reasonably possible
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You rendered assistance and complied with statutory duties
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Identity — you were not the driver of the vehicle
Why You Need a Defense Attorney
Leaving the scene of a crash involving death carries a mandatory 4-year prison sentence. An attorney will examine the crash evidence, challenge whether you had knowledge of the accident, and assess whether all required duties were triggered and met.
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