In Florida, the criminal offense of Hit and Run is called Leaving the Scene of an Accident. The severity of this crime sometimes referred to as LSA, as do so many other criminal traffic charges, depends upon the nature and the extent of the damage.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident or LSA is always a criminal case. When only property is damaged, then Leaving the Scene is a misdemeanor. The law only requires that property be damaged, not that a vehicle is damaged. Therefore, if a driver hits a fence or a tree, and flees the scene, then the State of Florida will attempt to charge the crime of hit and run. Leaving the scene of an accident with injuries or death is a felony.
Just like in any other single car crash with no witnesses, the evidence can be lacking without the driver’s admission. As mentioned in a careless driving blog, in almost all cases, the police did not witness the event and you should always hire a lawyer to protect yourself and not give the government the rope it needs to hang the suspect. Any person under investigation for any criminal offense, LSA, traffic or otherwise should call an attorney immediately before answering any questions to law enforcement. If there are witnesses to a hit and run or leaving the scene, it will be any bystanders and the alleged victims. Even if a vehicle is captured on video leaving the scene of an accident or crash with injuries, the video may not show the driver. Therefore, oftentimes, the police will still be seeking an admission from the owner. Then the only thing that media has correct is that anything said will be used against the accused.
If you or a loved one is charged or under investigation then, please click or call today.
Gainesville (352) 371-9141
Ocala (352) 694-4529