What happens After Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

General Forum Discussions
1

Hi Comrades,

, I’m feeling really stressed out because I panicked and left the scene of an accident. I know it was wrong, and now I’m not sure what to do next. Can someone please advise me on what steps I should take? Should I report myself to the authorities or seek legal advice? Any guidance or experiences you can share would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance…

2

If you leave the scene of an accident, it’s important to contact a lawyer with experience in these cases. They can help you understand your options and guide you on the best steps to take next. Reporting the incident to authorities is also a good idea.

3

The law defines a reportable road traffic collision as an incident involving a mechanically-propelled vehicle on a road or other public area that results in:

  • Injury or damage to anyone other than the driver of that vehicle.
  • Injury or damage to an animal, excluding those being carried on the vehicle (animals include horses, cattle, asses, mules, sheep, pigs, goats, or dogs).
  • Damage to a vehicle other than the one that caused the collision.
  • Damage to property built on, attached to, growing in, or otherwise part of the land where the road is.

You might be liable under “damage to a vehicle,” but given the minimal damage and the other party not planning to claim insurance, it would be wise to consult a lawyer if you are charged. As your lawyer, I would argue that the damage could have been pre-existing and require proof that your vehicle caused it. This argument could potentially lead to the charges being dropped, even with the dashcam footage, as many factors can damage a car, and a skilled lawyer could create reasonable doubt.