Navigating the Complexities of Hit and Run Involving an Attended Vehicle in Washington
The Basics
If you’re driving in Washington and end up in an accident with a car that has someone in it (that’s what we call an “attended vehicle”), there are some really important steps you need to take. You’ve got to give your name, address, car details, and insurance info to the other driver or anyone in their car. Otherwise, leaving the scene of an accident with an occupied vehicle, will lead to criminal charges. We highly recommend contacting a hit and run attended lawyer as soon as possible.
If you don’t stick around and share your details in an accident involving an attended vehicle, the government may charge you with a Hit and Run (Attended). It is a “gross misdemeanor.” Therefore, the maximum penalties for a Hit and Run (attended) is up to 364 days in jail and paying a fine of up to 5,000. Plus, you might have to pay back (“restitute”) the other person for any damage or injury. And if someone in the other car gets hurt, the problem gets even bigger – we’re talking felony charges here.
Further, it does not matter who is at fault in the accident. If you don’t share your info, the government may charge you with a hit and run on an attended vehicle. And if you’re found guilty, say goodbye to your driver’s license for a year because it’s going to be suspended. This kind of conviction is also a big red flag on your driving record, especially if you’re a young driver or have other traffic violations on your record.
Contact our Hit and Run (Attended) lawyer today (206) 771-4343
Potential Outcomes: Misdemeanor Compromise
Even though this situation sounds really scary, there’s hope. In a few instance, an attorney may get the court to dismiss the case through a “civil compromise.” For certain crimes, including a Hit and Run Attended, the court may dismiss the charge if the injured party appears in court and acknowledges that they received satisfaction for the injury. The injured party must do this in writing. Further, the court has discretion whether the court agrees to dismiss the charges. So, a dismissal is not automatic just because the injured party received satisfaction for the injury.
In short, if your hit and run attended attorney can work something out with the other person, the court may dismiss the case. That’s why it’s important to talk to a lawyer who knows the ins and outs of hit and run cases.
Potential Outcomes: Reduction to a Hit and Run Unattended
Other possible resolution is a reduction from a Hit and Run Attened to a Hit and Run Unattended. A Hit and Run Unattended, is a misdemeanor as compared to a gross misdemeanor. As such, the penalties are reduced. Further, a Hit and Run Unattended does not cary a license suspension.
Potential Outcomes: Stipulated Continuance
Depending on the prosecutor who will be handling your case, sometime the prosecutor’s office will agree to a Stipulated Order of Continuance (“SOC”). A SOC is a “contract” between the defendant and the prosecutor’s office. If the defendant fulfills the conditions in the SOC agreement, the prosecutor will agree to get the case dismissed at the end of the SOC term.
Contact an Attorney
If you ever find yourself in this kind of tough spot, don’t wait too long. Contact a hit and run attended lawyer right away. Our team of experienced Seattle Hit and Run (attended) Lawyers is here to help. We know how to handle these cases to avoid serious penalties. We help you understand your options and work towards the best possible resolution of your case. Whether that is by negotiating a plea deal with the prosecutor or representing you through trial.
So, if you’re in a bind with a hit and run situation, call us or drop us an email. We’re here to help you through this tough time. We will do our best to help you avoid a conviction, jail time, and a license suspension.
Contact us to today at (206) 771-4343 to discuss your case with our Hit and Run (Attended) attorney
