Leaving the scene of personal injury is a crime in Massachusetts. It is a type of hit-and-run. It is a very serious criminal charge in Massachusetts. Massachusetts General Law G.L. c. 90, § 24(2)(a½)(1) defines this law.
In Massachusetts, all drivers are required to provide their identification in the case of an accident. All drivers have a duty to stop and make their identity known in the case of an accident. It is not enough to just stop and passively provide information. Drivers are also required to give their information to an injured person or someone acting on their behalf, at or near the time of the injury. The extent of the injury does not matter. Even in cases of slight injury a driver is required to provide their identification. Finally, it does not matter who was at fault in the accident. Even if it was the injured party’s fault the other driver must provide their identification.
Attorney Patrick Donovan provides the best criminal defense to people charged with crimes in Massachusetts.
Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury FAQs
Table of Contents
What is the Massachusetts statute for Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury?
Massachusetts General law chapter 90 section 24 is the Massachusetts hit and run law.
What is Leaving the Scene of Personal Injury?
1) that the person did in fact drive a car upon a public way and a way the public has a right of access:
2) And without stopping and making known his or her name, residence and the register number of his or her motor vehicle, did go away after knowingly colliding with or otherwise causing injury to, not resulting in the death of any person.
What is the penalty for leaving the scene of personal injury?
The penalty can be six months to two years in the House of Correction and a fine of not less than $500 or not more than $1000. Also, this charge cannot be filed or continued without a finding. Finally, the RMV may and shall, unless the judge recommends otherwise, revoke the license for one year or, in cases of subsequent offenses, for two years. RMV may revoke registration if the defendant is the owner or has exclusive control of the vehicle.
Is leaving the scene of an accident a felony in MA?
Leaving the scene of a car accident that resulted in a death is a felony in Massachusetts. All other charges of leaving the scene are misdemeanors.
ARE THERE ANY LEGAL DEFENSES TO LEAVING THE SCENE OF PERSONAL INJURY?
One common defense to this charge is the lack of knowledge of striking someone. The Commonwealth is required to demonstrate that the driver intentionally hit someone and knowingly left after being involved in an accident.
BOSTON CRIMINAL LAWYER / MASSACHUSETTS CRIMINAL ATTORNEY
Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney Patrick T. Donovan provides the best criminal defense in Massachusetts. Also, Attorney Donovan aggressively represents the accused charged with motor vehicle crimes in Boston and throughout Massachusetts. Finally, Massachusetts Criminal Attorney Patrick T. Donovan fights for the best result for each and every one of his clients.
Attorney Donovan, being a former prosecutor, possesses an understanding of the tactics employed by law enforcement and district attorneys. Furthermore, he leverages his experience as an Assistant District Attorney to benefit his clients.
Contact Attorney Patrick T. Donovan today for your free initial consultation at (617)479-1800!
Quincy Criminal Attorney
Attorney Donovan provides complimentary consultations and operates from a conveniently situated office near route 93 in Quincy. Quincy Criminal Attorney Donovan ensures flexible scheduling by accommodating evening and weekend consultations at locations convenient for the client. To schedule your free consultation, contact attorney Patrick Donovan at (617) 479-1800.