Hit and Run is a serious traffic offense under Georgia law. Under the current Georgia traffic law, code section 40-6-270 makes it illegal to leave the scene of an accident when an occupied vehicle has been struck. Under the law, you must stop or return to the scene when (a) the accident results in an injury or death, or (b) the accident damages an occupied vehicle. Additionally, under Georgia's hit and run law you must (1) give your name, address, and registration information of the vehicle you are driving; (2) show your operators license upon request; (3) render reasonable assistance to anyone injured; and (4) report the accident to medical or law enforcement if a person is unconscious or otherwise unresponsive. Depending on the severity of the injuries to those involved, a hit and run crime can be either a misdemeanor or felony crime in Georgia. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) will suspend your driver's license for a minimum of 120 days if you are convicted of a hit and run charge.
Alternatives to Hit and Run
Georgia's code also includes similar laws to "hit and run" that outline a driver's duty to stop when an unattended vehicle, fixture, or property has been collided with and damaged. Often times, cases initially charged as hit and run cases have defenses available that will save your driver's license, as well as spare your criminal record from reporting a hit and run conviction. If you have been arrested, or have been contacted by a law enforcement officer investigating you for hit and run, contact an attorney before speaking to anyone. Remember, any conversation that you may have about the incident will be used against you, and will aid the state in convicting you, and cops are well trained in coaxing ordinary people into making statements and providing evidence that is incriminating.
Call Us Before You Start Explaining Your Case to Cops.
At Zeliff | Watson, both of our lawyers have years of experience in defending hit and run charges. While we ideally receive a call before you have spoken with law enforcement, we are available at all stages of your case, and can absolutely make a difference in the outcome and keep your criminal and driving records from falling victim to a hit and run charge. Remember, because of hit and runs severity, you will be arrested and printed for the charge. This means the charge not only affects your driving record, but your GCIC criminal history used by employers and the like.
We can be reached 24/7 for emergency situations at: (770) 676-1340 or through our in-page contact form.