Being involved in a hit and run, whether you realize it at the time or not, is a serious matter. Your actions immediately afterward can profoundly impact the outcome. Here are some common mistakes people make that you definitely want to steer clear of.
- Fleeing the scene: This might seem obvious, but panic can lead to bad decisions. Leaving the scene without exchanging information or reporting the incident, especially if there's injury or significant property damage, dramatically increases the severity of the charges you'll face.
- Talking to the police without an attorney: Law enforcement might contact you for questioning. While it's natural to want to explain yourself, anything you say can be used against you. Politely state that you wish to speak with your attorney before answering any questions.
- Trying to fix vehicle damage yourself or hiding it: If your vehicle has damage consistent with a hit and run, attempting to repair it yourself or concealing it can be seen as evidence of guilt and an attempt to obstruct justice. Don't tamper with potential evidence.
- Not checking for surveillance footage: Many areas have cameras that might have captured the incident or your vehicle. If you were involved, or think you might have been, consider whether any cameras could exist and don't try to interfere with them.
- Delaying seeking legal advice: The sooner you get an attorney involved, the better. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and the prosecution can build their case. An experienced hit and run defense lawyer like Angelo Reyes can start protecting your interests right away, potentially negotiating with authorities or challenging evidence before things get out of hand.