Phoenix DUI Lawyer Blog

ARIZONA CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Arizona Laws dictate that involvement of an accident, leaving the scene is a criminal offense. These offenses can carry harsh punishments depending on the severity of the offense. It is important that you consult an experienced Arizona Criminal Defense attorney that has a solid understanding of the factors involved in the police investigation, prosecution, and is experienced and defending vehicular crimes.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident A.R.S. § 28-661

In Arizona, if you are involved in an auto accident that involves injury or death and knowingly fail to stop and give reasonable assistance, you can be charged with a felony. If the accident involves something less than serious injury or death, the criminal offense is a class 5 felony, punishable by up to 2.5 years in prison. If the accident results in serious injury or death, the criminal offense is a class 3 felony, punishable by up to 8.75 years in prison. Worst still, if you caused the auto accident, the offense is a class 2 felony, punishably by up to 12.5 years in prison. This sentence must run consecutively (back-to-back) to any other criminal sentence imposed for other criminal convictions related to the accident.

Under Arizona Law A.R.S. §28-662, a driver of a vehicle, involved in an accident that only results to damage to a vehicle driven, must: 1. Immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to the accident scene as possible, but shall immediately return to the accident scene. 2. Remain at the accident scene until the driver has fulfilled the requirements of A.R.S. 28-663. 3. Make the stop without obstructing traffic any more than necessary A person is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor if he fails to stop or comply with A.R.S. §28-662.

All vehicular crimes cases including leaving the scene, weigh heavily on your Arizona criminal Attorney to examine and challenge the evidence with respect to the circumstances and legal issues. This can include obtaining an independent evaluation from accident reconstruction specialists, causation, and other intervening factors. James Novak has the experience in Arizona criminal defense law to provide an immediate strong legal representation you need to be successful in defending your leaving the scene of an accident charge. James Novak also has an Engineering Degree and draws from his education, training and experience to deal with such vehicular crimes and investigations dealing with leaving the scene of an accident.