Penalties for Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Illinois

 Posted on June 26, 2019 in Traffic Offenses

In early May, a Berwyn woman was taking an Uber home after celebrating her 23rd birthday in Chicago. On her way home, a drunk driver crashed into the vehicle she was in, killing her and injuring three others. The driver fled the scene and was caught shortly after. Now, he faces many charges, including leaving the scene of an accident.

In Illinois, it is law that all drivers stop at the scene of any accident they are involved in. When they do not, they face serious penalties.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Property Damage

Even when there is only property damage and no real injury to anyone involved, all drivers must still stop and report the accident to the police. Failing to do this is considered a Class A misdemeanor. Although these are some of the least severe charges a person could face after leaving the scene of an accident, the consequences are still serious. This crime is punishable by up to one year in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a probation period of up to 24 months.

It is also important to understand that drivers must stop at the scene even if the vehicle they hit was unattended, or not carrying anyone at the time. Failure to do this is also considered a Class A misdemeanor that carries the same penalties as if someone had been in the vehicle.

When the property damage to a vehicle is valued over $1,000, the Secretary of State will suspend the driver’s license of the person that caused the accident.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Personal Injury or Death

Of course, if someone is hurt in an accident and any person involved flees the scene, they will face harsher penalties. This is considered a Class 4 felony that carries penalties between one to three years in jail and a maximum fine of $25,000. Anyone that violates this law will also have their license revoked by the Secretary of State.

Additionally, Illinois statute ILCS 5/11-402 also requires anyone involved in an accident resulting in death or personal injury to report the accident to the police. This must be done as soon as possible, but no later than 30 minutes after the accident took place. Violating this law carries penalties of between three to seven years in prison and a maximum fine of $25,000.

Do Not Try to Beat the Charges on Your Own; Call a Rolling Meadows Criminal Defense Lawyer

Fleeing the scene of an accident is one of the most common crimes people are accused of in Rolling Meadows. While it may not sound serious, law enforcement and the prosecution will not take it lightly. It is for this reason anyone facing charges must call a criminal defense attorney.

If you have been charged with leaving the scene of an accident, or any other crime, contact a skilled Rolling Meadows criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Christopher M. Cosley today at 847-253-3100. We will prepare the effective legal defense you need to help get your charges reduced, or even dropped altogether. Call us today or fill out our online form for your free consultation.

Source:

https://avondaleadvocate.com/man-charged-with-dui-fleeing-deadly-stevenson-crash/11524/