The Consequences of a Hit and Run Charge in Florida

You never thought you’d find yourself in this situation. One moment, you were driving, and the next, you panicked and left the scene. Maybe it was shock, fear, or just pure instinct. Now, reality is setting in, and you're wondering what happens next. Are you facing a hit and run charge in Florida? Can you fix this?

Leaving the scene of an accident in Florida, also known as hit and run, carries serious legal consequences. Failing to stop and take responsibility can result in criminal charges, license suspension, and financial penalties, even if no one was hurt. The severity of the consequences depends on the circumstances, but options may still be available to address the situation.

Is Leaving the Scene of an Accident a Crime in Florida?

Yes, Florida law makes it illegal to leave the scene of an accident without taking specific actions. Under Florida Statute § 316.061, drivers must stop if they are involved in a crash that results in property damage, injury, or death. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Potential Penalties for a Fort Lauderdale Hit and Run

Florida law separates hit and run offenses into three categories, based on the severity of the crash.

Hit and Run Involving Property Damage

• Charge: Second-degree misdemeanor
• Penalties:
  • Up to 60 days in jail
  • Up to six months of probation
  • A fine of up to $500
  • Potential driver’s license points or suspension

Hit and Run Involving Injuries

• Charge: Third-degree felony
• Penalties:
  • Up to five years in prison
  • Up to five years of probation
  • A fine of up to $5,000
  • Mandatory driver’s license revocation

Hit and Run Involving Death

• Charge: First-degree felony
• Penalties:
  • A minimum of four years in prison (up to 30 years)
  • A fine of up to $10,000
  • Permanent driver’s license revocation

The consequences are even more severe if you were under the influence at the time of the accident. Florida imposes a mandatory four-year prison sentence for hit and run cases involving DUI.

What to Do If You Left the Scene of an Accident

Panic makes people do things they wouldn’t normally do. If you left the scene, you’re not alone—many drivers react out of fear before realizing the legal consequences. However, taking action now can make a difference.

1. Contact a Broward Criminal Lawyer – You may have options, but the longer you wait, the worse the situation can become.
2. Consider Turning Yourself In – If law enforcement is investigating, coming forward voluntarily may help address potential penalties.
3. Gather Information – If possible, document what happened while the details are fresh in your mind. This effort can be significant in your defense.

Defenses to a Hit and Run Charge

Every case is different, and just because you left the scene doesn’t mean you’re automatically guilty. Some possible defenses include:

• You didn’t realize an accident occurred – Minor fender benders can be easy to miss, especially in loud or distracted driving conditions.
• You weren’t the driver – Law enforcement may assume you were driving based on vehicle registration, but they must prove you were behind the wheel.
• You feared for your safety – If stopping immediately would have put you in danger (such as in a high-crime area or a road rage incident), this could be a defense.
• You left but attempted to report the accident – If you made a good faith effort to report the crash shortly after leaving, it may help your case.

Why Coming Forward May Be Better Than Getting Arrested

If law enforcement investigates a Fort Lauderdale hit and run, waiting for an arrest warrant may not be in your best interest. However, before taking any action, speak with an attorney who can assess your situation and advise you on the best approach.

In some cases, turning yourself in voluntarily—under legal guidance—may lead to a better outcome than being arrested unexpectedly. An attorney can help you communicate with law enforcement in a way that protects your rights while addressing the charges against you.

Florida prosecutors often consider the circumstances when making decisions about charges. Panic is not an excuse, but showing remorse and taking responsibility—at the right time and in the right way—may help reduce penalties. An attorney can help you determine the best course of action before making decisions.

How a Hit and Run Conviction Affects Your Future

A hit and run conviction can impact more than just your legal record. You may also face:

• Higher insurance premiums – Most companies will label you a high-risk driver, making coverage expensive or difficult to obtain.
• Employment consequences – A criminal record may affect Jobs requiring driving or background checks.
• Loss of driving privileges – Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in license suspension, making daily life more difficult.

You made a mistake, but you still have options. If you left the scene of an accident in Florida, taking action now can impact how your case unfolds. The legal system considers intent, remorse, and whether you take responsibility for your actions.

The steps you take now matter if you're facing a hit-and-run charge in Florida. A Broward criminal lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your options, and help you work toward the best possible outcome.

Don’t Wait for Law Enforcement to Track You Down—Take Control of Your Situation Now

Panic may have led you to leave the scene, but what happens next is still within your control. A hit and run charge in Florida can carry serious consequences, but it doesn’t define who you are. What you do now can make all the difference in protecting your rights and future.

At the Law Offices of R. David Williams, we know that fear and uncertainty can cloud judgment at the moment. That doesn’t mean you should face felony charges alone. With over 25 years of criminal defense experience, Broward criminal lawyer David Williams takes the time to listen to your side of the story and build a strategic, well-prepared defense tailored to your case. Whether that means negotiating for reduced charges, challenging weak evidence, or exploring alternatives to jail time, he’s prepared to fight for the best possible outcome.

If you're searching for “criminal lawyers in Fort Lauderdale” who value honesty, integrity, and personal attention, you’re in the right place. Don’t wait for the situation to spiral further—reach out now. Call (954) 522-9997 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule your free consultation. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of securing a strong defense.

Knowledge | Experience | Integrity – R. David Williams

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The information in this blog post (post) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A.
15 Southwest 10th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
(954) 522-9997
https://dwilliamslaw.com/