Hit and Run Lawyer in Carrollton

If you’ve been involved in an accident while driving in Carrollton , failed to stop, or didn’t provide your details, you may face serious charges of hit and run. This is considered a significant offense in Ohio. To handle these charges effectively, you need the right legal representation from a trusted Carrollton OVI lawyer.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our experienced traffic attorneys possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to defend you in hit-and-run cases. Contact us as soon as possible if you’re facing such charges.

Difference Between a Hit and Skip and a Hit and Run

Across all U.S. states, it is mandatory to stop and provide your details after being involved in an accident. This may include informing the victim or the on-duty police officer. If you fail to stop, it’s referred to as a hit and run. However, in Ohio, terms like “hit and skip” or “tap and run” can also describe similar offenses.

Failing to Stop After an Accident

According to Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 4549.02, if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, you are required to stop at the scene. Here’s what the law entails:

• Who You Need to Notify: After stopping, you must provide your name, address, and vehicle registration details. If the car is not yours, you must share the owner’s contact information. Notify either the victim, another involved driver, or an attending police officer.
• If the Victim Is Incapacitated: When the other person involved in the accident is too injured to gather your details, ORC 4549.02(A)(2) requires you to inform law enforcement and provide them with your information. You must remain at the scene until police arrive unless taken away by ambulance.
• Unattended Property: If the vehicle or property affected is unoccupied—such as a parked car or a fence—you should leave your details in a noticeable spot (e.g., affixing a note to the vehicle or property) and attempt to notify the owner promptly.

Failing to meet these legal obligations can lead to being charged with hit and run. Whether you knowingly or mistakenly overlooked these requirements, connecting with a skilled Carrollton criminal lawyer can make all the difference.

False Hit and Run Accusations

Sometimes, individuals are wrongfully charged. For instance, you may hit a fence or a mailbox, inspect the property, and find no visible damage. If you’re wrongfully accused or charged in such situations, consulting a knowledgeable lawyer is essential. Our team at Youngstown Criminal Law Group is experienced in addressing such unfair accusations.

Penalties for Hit and Run in Ohio

Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 4549.02(B) specifies the penalties for hit and run offenses:

• First-Degree Misdemeanor:
• If you fail to stop after an accident without severe injury or damage, it is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor.
• Penalty: Up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

• Fifth or Fourth-Degree Felony:
• If someone suffers serious injury and you flee the scene, it may lead to felony charges.
• Fifth-Degree Felony:
  • Jail time of 6–12 months.
  • Fine of up to $2,500.
  • Fourth-Degree Felony:
  • Jail time of 6–18 months.
  • Fine of up to $5,000.
  • Third or Second-Degree Felony:
  • If the accident results in a fatality, the charges become much more severe.
  • Third-Degree Felony:
  • Jail time of 9 months to 5 years.
  • Fine of up to $10,000.
  • Second-Degree Felony:
  • Jail sentence ranging from 2–8 years.
  • Fine of up to $15,000.
  • If it is proven that you knew about the fatality and chose to flee, the charges escalate further into higher-degree felonies.
• ORC 4549.03 also mandates reporting accidents involving damage to adjacent properties (like fences or realty). Failure to leave your details and notify the property owner within 24 hours can also result in a first-degree misdemeanor.

Connect With a Trusted Carrollton Criminal Lawyer

Dealing with charges like hit and run can be overwhelming. The legal consequences are severe, and navigating Ohio’s complex legal system without proper guidance is challenging. That’s why working with a professional from Youngstown Criminal Law Group is critical. Our Carrollton OVI lawyers and criminal law experts will handle every aspect of the case to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.

For more information, consult our knowledgeable team today. Call us at (330) 992-3036 to schedule your initial consultation.