What Is the Penalty for Hit-And-Run in Louisiana? 2024

In Louisiana, the consequences of a hit-and-run accident can be severe and far-reaching. The question “What is the penalty for a hit-and-run in Louisiana?” is one that carries significant weight. It is important to understand the rules surrounding what to do after a collision to avoid being charged with a hit-and-run accident. For those involved as a victim, receiving clarity about hit-and-run rules can help you seek justice for the damage caused by an accident.

What Is a Hit and Run?

In Louisiana, a hit-and-run occurs when a driver who is involved in or causes an accident intentionally does not stop at the scene. They’re required to stop their vehicle at the scene of the accident in a way that does not obstruct traffic as much as possible. It’s also their responsibility to provide their name, contact, and vehicle information to the other parties involved. If the other party isn’t there, the driver must leave a note for them in an easy-to-find place.

If anyone involved in the accident is injured, drivers must offer a reasonable amount of assistance. This usually involves calling emergency services. If a driver fails to do these things, it could be considered a hit-and-run offense, which could lead to serious legal consequences.

Penalties for Hit-and-Run Offenses in Louisiana

The penalties for hit-and-run offenses in Louisiana can be different depending on the severity of the accident and whether the accident resulted in property damage, injury, or death. If the accident only involved property damage, there are still fines and a prison sentence associated, but they are typically quite small when compared to other types of hit-and-run accidents.

If the accident involves an injury, the amount of fines and jail time increases significantly. The severity of the penalties also increases if the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when they were involved in the accident. If someone is killed as a result of the crash, the penalties are even more severe.

Drivers with prior convictions for similar offenses face more penalties and often receive longer jail sentences and higher fines than individuals who have never committed a similar offense. Similar offenses include crimes like a DUI or DWI, vehicular homicide, or other vehicle-related offenses.

What to Do After an Accident

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to make sure everyone is safe as soon as possible. Move everyone off the road and to a safe location. If people are injured, call emergency services. If there is only minor damage, it might only be necessary to call the local police instead of 911.

Check with witnesses and other drivers to gather as many details as possible about the fleeing vehicle, and write them down. These steps could help you identify the fleeing driver, who may then be charged with a hit-and-run crime. If they caused the accident, they could also be held liable for the damages you incurred.

If you can, take photos of the scene of the accident and record the contact information of witnesses for a future claim. Report the incident to your insurance company and local law enforcement as soon as possible. The faster a report is created, the more likely the hit-and-run driver could be identified.

If you were involved in a hit-and-run, it’s important to contact a lawyer. They may be able to help identify the party who fled after causing the accident. They can also help you file a claim to potentially recoup your damages.

FAQs

What Are the Consequences of a Hit-and-Run in Louisiana?

The consequences of a hit-and-run in Louisiana depend on whether or not it resulted in any injuries. If the injuries are severe or result in a fatality, the penalties are more severe than if no one was harmed. The consequences can include fines and time in prison. If the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident, the penalties could be even worse. It is important to address an accident after it happens and stay on the scene to avoid a hit-and-run charge.

What Constitutes a Hit-and-Run in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, a hit-and-run means that a driver who caused a car accident did not stop at the scene after the fact. They must also provide their contact and insurance information if the other driver requires it. Additionally, it’s necessary to let the police and emergency services know the accident occurred. This could apply to major roadways as well as accidents that occur in parking lots or side roads. If the other driver is not there, it is still necessary to notify them via a note.

What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run in Louisiana?

After a hit-and-run in Louisiana, it’s important to make sure that all vehicles and drivers are moved to a safe place out of moving traffic. If necessary, call emergency services if you or the other party are injured. If the other vehicle starts driving away, try to get as much information about the vehicle as you can, including the color, license plate number, and make and model. If possible, take photos and record any information from witnesses who might have seen it.

Do I Need an Attorney After Being Involved in a Hit-and-Run?

You can benefit from hiring an attorney after being involved in a hit-and-run. They may be able to help you file an insurance claim, and you should not speak with insurance adjusters before retaining legal counsel. Insurance adjusters may attempt to use your words against you in an effort to minimize what they owe you. A lawyer can ensure they don’t take advantage of you.

Reach Out to Day Law Group

The penalties for hit-and-run offenses in Louisiana are designed to deter drivers from fleeing the scene of an accident. These consequences help uphold justice and protect victims. If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run accident, seeking legal advice is important to learn more about your case. Schedule a consultation with Day Law Group today for the support and representation you need.