Leaving the Scene of a Crash in Florida

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

• Crash involving only property damage: Second-Degree Misdemeanor — up to 60 days jail, $500 fine

• Crash involving injury to another person: Third-Degree Felony — up to 5 years, $5,000 fine

• Crash involving death: First-Degree Felony — up to 30 years; mandatory minimum 4 years

• Driver's license revocation upon conviction

• Restitution to victims and their families

  
  

Additional Consequences

• Permanent criminal record

• Civil liability to the victim or their family

• Insurance consequences

• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

  
  

Possible Defenses

• You were unaware that an accident had occurred (no knowledge of impact)

• You stopped as soon as it was reasonably possible

• You rendered assistance and complied with statutory duties

• 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.

Call today for a free consultation: (813) 888-8888  |  Email: erica@fllegaldefense.com

Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, and Polk Counties. Virtual consultations available.