This is considered a very serious criminal offense if you have been charged with a hit-and-run resulting in serious injury or death in Oregon. If you are convicted, you can face large fines, the loss of your driver’s license, and potential prison time. Often, as with any car accident, you are physically and emotionally shaken and in a state of panic when you leave the scene, simply hoping to escape with your life intact and a way to move on with your life and responsibilities.
Causing Injury or Death to Another Person in a Car Accident
Oregon law requires drivers to assist those who have been injured in an accident. The law does not expect you to administer medical treatment, but you should remain on the scene and call 911 or assist them in getting transportation to a hospital or medical facility. If you flee instead of staying to help, a charge of “failure to perform duties following an accident” will follow. Even if you were only a witness to the accident, you are liable and can receive a ticket for failing to help someone who sustained injuries.
Hit-and-run crimes that cause injury are a Class C Felony in Oregon, which carries with it a maximum of five years served in state prison as well as fines that can go as high as $125,000. If you caused the death of another person in a hit and run, the prison time and the fines may very well double after a judge hears the details of the case and hands down a conviction.
Contact Pedemonte Law
Suppose you have been charged with a hit-and-run crime resulting in injury or loss of life. In that case, you will need a professional attorney who specializes in criminal law and who is dedicated to helping you understand your rights and your options for defense. We care about your future and are determined to get you the best possible outcome so that you can move forward after this devastating situation. Contact us today for a free consultation with a member of our legal team.