Charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Massachusetts? Act Now to Protect Your Future!
A Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury charge can lead to serious penalties, including jail time, fines, and a suspended license. Attorney Patrick Donovan, a former prosecutor, knows how to fight these cases and protect your freedom, record, and driving privileges.
✅ Free, confidential consultation – No risk, no obligation
✅ Former Prosecutor – Knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case
✅ Aggressive defense to reduce or dismiss charges
✅ Avoid jail time, fines, and a criminal record
Don’t wait! Every second counts in your defense. Call (617) 479-1800 or request a FREE consultation now.
What is Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury in Massachusetts?
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 24(2)(a), Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury refers to an incident where a person involved in a motor vehicle accident leaves the scene without providing identification or aiding the injured person.
If the accident causes personal injury, the law requires that the driver remain at the scene and provide the following:
- Their name
- Address
- Driver’s license number (if available)
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance information
- Offer reasonable assistance to the injured party
Failure to meet these obligations can lead to criminal charges.
Penalties for Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury
In Massachusetts, the penalties for leaving the scene of an accident involving personal injury can be severe. If convicted, a driver could face:
- A minimum 1-year license suspension
- Up to 2.5 years in prison
- Fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000
- Potential civil liability to the injured party
If the injury is severe, additional charges could apply, leading to longer sentences and higher fines. This is why you need an experienced attorney by your side to ensure you receive a fair trial and protect your rights.
Detailed Summary of Massachusetts Law
The Massachusetts law is clear about the obligations a driver has when involved in an accident causing personal injury. The law holds that:
- Drivers must stop immediately after an accident.
- Render aid to anyone injured or seek medical assistance.
- Provide identification and contact information, including insurance details.
For a detailed breakdown of the law, refer to the Massachusetts Law Summary on Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury here. This document outlines the full statutory requirements and legal obligations of drivers involved in accidents with personal injuries. It’s crucial to understand the legal framework so that you can form an appropriate defense strategy with the help of your attorney.
Potential Defenses Against Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury Charges
If you’ve been charged with Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury, several defenses could potentially be used to reduce or dismiss the charges. Here are a few possible strategies:
1. Unaware of the Accident
In some cases, a driver may not have realized that an accident occurred, especially in cases of minor impact. If there was no obvious damage or if the accident was caused by another party (such as a hit-and-run), your attorney could argue that you didn’t know an injury had occurred and were unaware of your obligation to stop.
2. Immediate Medical Emergency
If you left the scene to seek emergency medical treatment for yourself or others involved, this could be used as a valid defense. If you can demonstrate that you were acting out of a genuine medical necessity, it could lead to reduced charges or even a dismissal.
3. Lack of Evidence
In some cases, there may be insufficient evidence to prove that you were the driver involved in the accident. The prosecution must establish that you were directly involved in the accident and left the scene. If there is a lack of clear evidence or if there is doubt about your involvement, your attorney may challenge the case in court.
4. No Injury or Minor Injury
If no injury occurred or if the injuries sustained were minor, it may be possible to argue that the charge of Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury is not warranted. The law specifically addresses personal injury, so if the injury was minor or didn’t occur, the charge may not apply.
What to Do If You Are Charged
Being charged with Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury can be overwhelming. Here’s what you should do immediately:
- Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney: It’s essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced attorney, like Patrick Donovan, can review your case and help develop a solid defense strategy.
- Avoid Speaking to the Police Without Representation: Anything you say to the police can be used against you. Speak to your attorney before answering any questions.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, gather any evidence that could support your defense, such as dashcam footage, witness statements, or medical records.
- Prepare for Your Court Hearing: Your attorney will help prepare you for your court appearance, explaining what to expect and how to present yourself in the best possible light.
Recent Case Victory: Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury
In a recent case, Attorney Patrick Donovan successfully defended a client who had been charged with Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury. Through careful investigation, he was able to uncover key details that showed his client had not knowingly left the scene and was unaware that anyone had been injured.
By presenting strong evidence and arguing the lack of intent, Attorney Donovan secured a favorable outcome for his client, leading to a dismissal of the charges. You can read more about this victory here.
Get Help Today
If you’re facing charges for Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury in Massachusetts, don’t wait—contact Attorney Patrick Donovan today. With over 20 years of experience in criminal defense, Patrick Donovan has successfully represented countless individuals in cases just like yours. Call now for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I be charged with Leaving the Scene if I didn’t know someone was injured?
Yes, you can still be charged if you left the scene, even if you didn’t know anyone was injured. However, a defense based on lack of awareness could be presented in court.
What are the consequences if I leave the scene but later return to provide assistance?
Returning to the scene after leaving may help reduce the charges, but the law requires that you remain at the scene. The timing of your return will be a key factor in your defense.
Do I need an attorney for this charge?
Yes, hiring an attorney is crucial. A skilled attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected, challenge any weak evidence, and provide the best defense strategy.
Can I face charges even if I wasn’t the one who caused the accident?
Yes, if you were involved in the accident, even as a passenger, you could face charges if you fail to fulfill your legal obligations.
For more information on criminal defense in Massachusetts, visit Patrick Donovan’s Criminal Defense.
Take Action Now
Your future is at stake. Contact Leaving the scene of personal injury Attorney Patrick Donovan today for a confidential consultation and to start building your defense. Visit our contact page.
This article is designed to provide guidance on defending against charges of Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury in Massachusetts, but it is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can offer tailored legal advice for your case.
