All you need to know about Hit & Run Criminal Cases

Hit-and-run cases can be incredibly stressful and complicated to deal with. Over the past decade, there’s been a shocking 89.4% increase in fatal hit-and-run accidents, making them a serious problem on American roads. The impact of the accident is often made worse by the legal issues that come afterward. If you’re in St. Louis, understanding the specifics of hit-and-run laws and knowing what steps to take can make a huge difference in how your case turns out. At Bruntrager & Billings, P.C., we’re here to help you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected.

Missouri Laws and Penalties

A hit-and-run happens when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without sharing their contact information or helping anyone who’s been hurt. In Missouri, drivers involved in an accident are required to stop and provide their information, such as name, address, vehicle registration, and driver’s license number. Not doing so is considered a hit-and-run, and the penalties depend on how serious the accident is:

• Property Damage: If only property is damaged, leaving the scene can lead to misdemeanor charges, fines, and even jail time.
• Injury or Death: If someone is injured or killed, the hit-and-run becomes a felony, with penalties including large fines, a long prison sentence, and a permanent criminal record.

Defenses Against a Hit-and-Run Charge

If you’re facing a hit-and-run charge, several defenses might apply to your situation. Here are a few possibilities:

• Mistaken Identity: You weren’t the driver involved in the accident.
• Lack of Knowledge: You weren’t aware that an accident occurred.
• No Damage or Injury: The accident didn’t cause any noticeable damage or harm.
• Emergency Situation: You left the scene due to a medical or personal emergency.

 

Depending on the circumstances, your accident attorney st louis can help determine which defense strategy best suits your case, ensuring your rights are fully protected.

Facing a hit-and-run charge can feel overwhelming, especially when so much is on the line. That’s where Bruntrager & Billings, P.C. comes in. With a deep understanding of Missouri’s legal system and years of experience, our st louis criminal lawyers are here to help you through it. We’ve successfully defended clients against various criminal charges, including hit-and-run cases, and we know that every case is unique. That’s why we’re committed to creating a defense strategy tailored to your situation.

 

Our St. Louis car accident attorneys will thoroughly review your case, challenge any weak evidence, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Skilled in both criminal defense and personal injury law, we are uniquely equipped to handle complex cases where these areas intersect. Whether we’re negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, or representing you in court, our top priority is to protect your rights.

Contact a St. Louis Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you or someone you care about is facing hit-and-run charges in St. Louis, don’t hesitate to get the legal help you need. Contact Bruntrager & Billings, P.C. today at 314-646-0066 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule a consultation.