Some drivers mistakenly believe that if no one is injured in a collision, they can simply leave the scene. However, that is not the case under Alabama law. Leaving the scene of a car crash can result in serious legal and financial consequences.
What Are Alabama’s Hit-and-Run Laws?
Alabama traffic laws require drivers involved in any motor vehicle accident to stop and remain at the scene, regardless of whether the accident results in injuries, property damage, or fatalities. Drivers involved in accidents must:
- Stop their vehicle at or near the scene.
- Provide their name, address, and vehicle license plate number.
- Show their driver’s license to the other party, if requested.
- Render reasonable assistance if someone is injured.
Leaving the scene of an accident with no injuries is still considered a hit-and-run offense in Alabama, which carries significant penalties.
What Are the Legal Consequences of Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Alabama?
An Alabama hit-and-run accident can lead to both criminal charges and civil repercussions. The severity of the penalties depends on the nature of the accident:
- Property damage only – If the accident caused damage but no injuries, leaving the scene may still result in a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by fines, possible jail time, and a criminal record.
- Injury or death – The legal consequences of leaving an accident scene in Alabama are significantly harsher when the accident resulted in injury or death. It may result in felony charges, including prison time.
Beyond criminal charges, a hit-and-run conviction can also result in:
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Increased insurance rates
- Civil lawsuits from injured parties
In short, fleeing the scene can cause far more trouble than whatever the driver may face by following the law and sticking around.
Why Do You Need to Stay at the Scene of an Accident?
Remaining at the accident site is not just required by law. It is also the responsible thing to do. Staying on the scene allows you to:
- Ensure everyone involved is safe and receives necessary medical care.
- Exchange insurance details and contact info to handle any personal injury and property damage claims fairly.
- Help law enforcement create an accident report.
- Avoid additional charges and complications.
By staying on the scene, you are protecting the well-being of all parties involved and protecting your own legal rights.
How an Alabama Car Accident Attorney Can Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you were the victim of a hit-and-run, having an experienced Alabama car accident attorney could make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Our personal injury attorneys can help by:
- Reviewing your case and explaining your legal options
- Pursuing compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damage a hit-and-run driver caused you
- Pursuing uninsured motorist coverage (UM) benefits if the hit-and-run motorist cannot be found
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Representing you in court if necessary
The team at Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., can be your fiercest allies as you seek justice for your car accident injuries. Our car accident lawyers are ready to investigate your claim, gather evidence, and build a compelling case for maximum compensation while you focus on recovery.
Contact us today for your free consultation with an experienced attorney about your hit-and-run case.
