Hit and Run Defense in Rhode Island

Hit and Run is often described as leaving an accident scene without providing aid or identification. The prosecution will need to prove that the driver was aware that an accident occurred, and that one of these four scenarios played out:

  1. A Hit and Run occurred that included damage to a vehicle or property. The penalties include misdemeanor charges that warrant a maximum of six months in prison and up to one thousand in fines. In addition, drivers’ licenses will be suspended for a period of up to six months.
  2. A Hit and Run occurred, wherein the accident injured someone. The penalties include up to five years in prison, and up to five thousand in fines. In addition, drivers’ licenses will be suspended for a period of up to five years.
  3. A Hit and Run occurred, wherein the accident severely injured someone (otherwise known as serious bodily injury). The penalties include up to ten years in prison, and up to ten thousand in fines. In addition, drivers’ licenses will be on hold for a period of up to three years.
  4. A Hit and Run occurred, wherein someone was killed. The penalties include up to fifteen years in prison, and up to ten thousand in fines. In addition, drivers’ licenses will be suspended for a period of up to three years.

In prosecuting hit and run case, it doesn’t matter who is at fault. The key element of this crime is that the fleeing party did not fulfil his or her obligation to provide identification, or make the necessary emergency calls at the scene of an accident.

These actions are mandatory in all states: All drivers must stop and identify themselves to the other party and authorities. In addition, if someone was injured, all necessary steps must be taken to provide aid or contact an emergency personnel.

If you’ve been charged with a hit and run, contact the RI criminal defense attorneys at 401-272-4001.