Hit and Run Criminal Charges in Las Vegas, Nevada
Leaving the scene of an accident
It is a criminal offense in Nevada to leave the scene of an accident. Nevada law requires both drivers to stay on the scene, even if the accident is not their fault. If either driver willfully leaves the scene of an accident - they are committing a crime.
Nevada state law
Under NRS (Nevada Revised Statutes) 484E.030, both drivers must provide the following:
- VIN #
- Name
- Address
- Driver's license, upon request
The police who arrive on the scene are also entitled to this information. Traffic citations may be issued if this information is not present.
The parked car hit and run
If the vehicle was in a parking lot and unattended, in Nevada, the driver has a legal duty to attempt to find the owner of a car or leave a written note with contact information.
The driver also must tell the police about the accident.
Hit and run penalty
The hit and run accident in Nevada can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor. If the crash is only property damage - the charge is a misdemeanor. If the accident resulted in a bodily injury or death - the criminal charge is a Category B felony.
Misdemeanor hit and run
Penalties for misdemeanor hit and run accident include:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- 6 points against your license
Felony hit and run
If the car accident resulted in wrongful death or bodily injury, then leaving the scene is a Category B felony.
Penalties for felony hit and run accident include:
- 2-20 years in prison
- $2,000 to $5,000 in fines
- DMV license suspension or revocation
These penalties can vary based on the facts of the case. If there are previous DUI convictions within the state's defined period, the punishment most likely will be enhanced.
If you got arrested for leaving the scene after a car or truck accident, remember that you have a constitutional right to remain silent. Moreover, you have the right to an attorney to advise you regarding your rights.
Contact the office of Heshmati & Associates at 702-432-1000 as soon as possible to discuss your case.
Complex hit and run cases
Some hit and run accidents are very complex, involve many injured victims and multiple vehicles. In cases like this, the driver may be charged with reckless driving, bodily injury, and vehicular homicide, in addition to other charges.
DUI hit and run accidents
Often hit and run offenders are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They don't want to get caught while being intoxicated and leaving the scene of an accident, hoping that even if they get arrested later, it will be hard to prove that they were intoxicated during the crash.
The law changed on October 1, 2015. Under the new law in Nevada, the driver is facing 2 - 20 years in prison with no probation for fleeing the crime scene, the same as felony DUI. Also, the driver may be punished separately for each victim who suffered bodily injury or death.
Traffic laws for school zones
As of October 1, 2015, the new traffic laws forbid making U-turns in school zones and changing lanes to pass other vehicles in school crossing areas. With questions about school zones' traffic laws, call 702-432-1000 and ask to speak with a criminal defense attorney.
Record sealing after hit and run
Hit and run charges and just about every criminal charge that is NOT mentioned in Chapter 179- NRS 179.245 section (6) can be sealed. Read our article "Record Sealing Process" and the time requirements for sealing criminal records in Las Vegas and other Nevada cities.
How do the police find hit and run drivers?
With hit and run charges, the alleged person will usually receive a letter from the LVMPD Traffic Bureau. The letter will state a brief description was what they believe occurred and will ask you to contact the detective assigned to the investigation. The LVMPD Traffic Bureau will mail the letter to the last known address on record with the DMV for the alleged person.
When you retain our office, we will contact the detective on behalf of our client and schedule a meeting. Next, the attorney, client, and detective all attend the meeting together.
We can help
When you are under investigation for leaving the scene of an accident, a knowledgeable hit and run attorney's expertise will prove to be very valuable.
The attorneys at Heshmati & Associates know how to handle hit and run cases. In the past few years, they represented dozens of clients accused of leaving the scene of an accident in Las Vegas.
To schedule an appointment, call 702-432-1000. The initial consultation is always free and confidential.
Walk-ins are welcome!
We represent clients in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Laughlin, Mesquite, and throughout Nevada.
Additional Resources:
Hit and Run Accidents
New Law Toughens Penalties for Hit-And-Run Drivers. The new bill signed into law provides stiffer penalties for hit-and-run drivers in Nevada.
