Q: I left the scene of an unsafe multi car accident and filed a police report online a few hours later
I drove into a multi car accident and another car hit me from behind. I didn’t hit anyone. It was on a very busy interstate, and I felt it was unsafe and no police were on scene yet. I drove to the next exit and assessed the damage, which wasn’t terrible, and called my insurance company. I then drove home and filed a collision report online. Cqn I get in trouble for this?
A:
Leaving the scene of an accident, even if you did not cause it, can potentially lead to criminal charges and penalties under Kentucky law:
- Kentucky law requires drivers involved in an accident to remain at the scene and provide their contact/insurance information to the other parties involved.
- Filing a report later does not satisfy this requirement to remain at the scene. Leaving can be considered a hit and run.
- The penalties for leaving the scene of an accident where injuries or property damage occur are fines up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail.
- The fact that the accident occurred on a busy highway makes leaving more hazardous if others were not able to avoid the wreckage.
- Your concern about safety does not provide legal justification for leaving. You are required to move to a safe position at the scene and comply with the law.
- The best approach is to remain at the nearest safe location until police arrive and document the incident.
While the consequences may be minor for a first offense with no injuries, it is still advisable to consult with a local criminal defense attorney to mitigate penalties for improperly leaving the scene. Cooperating fully with any law enforcement investigation will also be important.
Timothy Denison agrees with this answer
A: Your concerns and actions might be argued as justifiable to a degree, but authorities could still file charges or impose penalties. A consult with a Kentucky attorney could provide guidance as to the best way to handle the matter. Good luck
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