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Published on 9/30/2024, 1:34:00 PM

Understanding Hit-and-Run Laws in Maryland

In Maryland, being involved in a motor vehicle accident comes with specific legal obligations. One of the most significant responsibilities is to remain at the scene of the accident until certain conditions are met. Fleeing the scene, commonly known as "hit-and-run," is a serious criminal offense that can result in harsh penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines.

Maryland Hit-and-Run Laws

Under Maryland law, a driver involved in an accident must fulfill several requirements before leaving the scene, especially if there is property damage, injury, or death. According to Maryland Transportation Code Section 20-104, a driver must:

  • Provide reasonable assistance to any injured party
  • Call for medical help if necessary
  • Provide their name, address, vehicle registration, and driver's license information to the other parties involved in the accident
  • Offer the same information to any attending law enforcement officers

Failure to do so can lead to criminal charges of hit-and-run, even if the driver is not at fault for the accident.

Leaving the Scene of Property Damage vs. Personal Injury

The severity of hit-and-run charges depends on the consequences of the accident, particularly whether the incident caused property damage or personal injury:

  • Property Damage: If a driver leaves the scene of an accident that only involves property damage, the penalties are less severe. You may face a fine of up to $500 and imprisonment of up to 60 days. However, points will be added to your driving record, which could lead to future issues with your license.

  • Personal Injury: If the accident results in personal injury, the situation becomes much more serious. Leaving the scene could result in fines of up to $3,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. If the injury is severe or the accident results in death, you could face up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. These penalties are often accompanied by long-term consequences, such as the loss of driving privileges or higher insurance rates.

Penalties for Hit-and-Run in Maryland

The penalties for hit-and-run in Maryland depend on the severity of the accident's consequences:

  • Property Damage: Leaving the scene of an accident that only results in property damage can lead to a fine of up to $500 and a jail sentence of up to 60 days.
  • Personal Injury: If the accident results in personal injury, the penalties can increase to fines of up to $3,000 and imprisonment for up to one year.
  • Serious Injury or Death: The most severe penalties apply when an accident results in serious bodily harm or death. Leaving the scene in these cases can lead to a fine of up to $5,000 or even $10,000, along with up to five or ten years in prison, respectively.

In addition to these criminal penalties, a hit-and-run conviction can result in points being added to the driver's record, which may lead to the suspension or revocation of their driver's license.

Defenses Against Hit-and-Run Charges

If you're facing hit-and-run charges, it's crucial to seek legal representation immediately. At FrizWoods, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case to identify any potential defenses, such as:

  • Lack of knowledge of the accident
  • Emergency circumstances that required you to leave the scene
  • Mistaken identity

We understand how daunting these charges can be, and we are committed to defending your rights.

FAQ About Maryland Hit-and-Run Laws

Q: What should I do if I accidentally hit someone's car and there's no one around?
A: If you're involved in a property damage-only accident and no one is around, Maryland law requires you to make a reasonable effort to locate the vehicle's owner. Leave a note with your contact information and a description of the incident in a visible spot on the vehicle, and report the accident to the police if necessary. Failing to do so may result in hit-and-run charges.

Q: Can I be charged with hit-and-run if I didn't cause the accident?
A: Yes. Even if you were not at fault for the accident, leaving the scene before providing your information can result in hit-and-run charges. The law applies to all parties involved, regardless of fault.

Q: What if I left the scene because I was scared or panicked?
A: Panic and fear are common reactions in high-stress situations like car accidents. However, leaving the scene without fulfilling your legal obligations can still lead to criminal charges. It's important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to explore potential defenses.

Q: Can a hit-and-run conviction affect my driving privileges?
A: Yes, a hit-and-run conviction can lead to points on your driving record, and in some cases, suspension or revocation of your license. The severity of the consequences will depend on the nature of the accident and your driving history.

Q: How can a criminal defense attorney help me if I'm charged with hit-and-run?
A: An experienced defense attorney can help by thoroughly investigating the case, challenging evidence, and working to reduce or dismiss the charges. They can also negotiate with prosecutors for a more favorable outcome or represent you in court if the case goes to trial.

Contact FrizWoods for Legal Help

If you or a loved one has been charged with a hit-and-run offense in Maryland, don't wait to seek legal advice. Contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at FrizWoods today. Our legal team will provide you with the guidance and defense you need to navigate Maryland's complex legal system and work toward the best possible outcome.