Introduction:
Hit and run Alexandria is considered as a serious offense. One who is accused of this will be charged as a felony offense or misdemeanor offense. The variation in the penalties charged depends on the situation of the crime. An accused is charged with a misdemeanor offense if the vehicle damage value after hit and run is below $1,000. A felony offense is committed when the vehicle damage value after hit and run is above $1,000. The accused can also be charged with a felony offense if hit and run collision cause an injury to another.
Penalties for Hit and Run Alexandria:
According to the law of Alexandria, one who is accused of hit and runs can face harsh penalties. The offender can be sentenced to imprisonment, charged with the high amount of fines and restitution. A person who is convicted of hit and run can be charged with class 1 misdemeanor if the vehicle or property was attended at the time of the collision. The penalties that can be charged in such situation include jail of up to 1 year, a fine of $2,500 and restitution. The culprit can also face a suspension of his or license for up to 6 months as stated in the code of conduct of hit and run Alexandria if the value of the damaged property is $500 or above. If the accident is not reported by the passenger that he can face punishment of up to 5 years in jail or equally to the driver. The difference between the penalties charged can also occur if the driver leaves the scene of the accident due to fear of being arrested.
The accused can be charged under class 5 felony if the vehicle or property was attended and the collision causes an injury, death or property damage of more than $1,000. It is obligatory for the passenger to report hit and run Alexandria, otherwise, they can also be sentenced to up to 5 years in prison with class 6 felony. The convict can also be sentenced to punishments that are charged under class 4 misdemeanor. If the vehicle or property was unattended and the value of the damaged property was less than $250 than the accused can face only a fine. The passenger who did not report such accidents will also be punished with the same charges as of drivers.
The defense for hit and run cases:
If someone is charged with hit and run misdemeanor or felony, they should consult an attorney. These attorneys can help them to understand the legal rights and how they can defend against the penalties charged. Several organizations recruit lawyers for hit and run Alexandria to assist their clients. These lawyers plan the best possible defense tool that can be used against the charges. The aspects that they explore include dismissal of the charges, reduction of the charges, plea bargain options, etc. As the law of Alexandria for hit and run is complicated, the police officials or prosecutors can make mistakes while charging against the accused. This can benefit the lawyers to create a defense for their clients.