Are Hit and Runs a Felony?
Introduction
A hit and run, also known as leaving the scene of an accident, is a serious crime that involves a driver failing to stop and provide identification or render aid after being involved in an accident, either with another vehicle or a pedestrian. In many states, hit and runs can be charged as a felony, leading to severe consequences for the offender. In this article, we will explore whether hit and runs are a felony, the laws surrounding this offense, and the potential penalties for those convicted.
Direct Answer
Are hit and runs a felony?
In short, yes, hit and runs can be a felony in many states. The specific circumstances of the accident, the severity of the injuries or damage, and the state’s laws can determine whether a hit and run is charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.
Felony vs. Misdemeanor
To understand whether a hit and run is a felony or a misdemeanor, it is essential to know the differences between the two. A felony is a more severe crime that can carry longer prison sentences and heavier fines. A misdemeanor, on the other hand, is a less serious crime that typically carries lighter penalties.
Felony Hit and Run Laws by State
Here is a breakdown of the felony hit and run laws by state:
| State | Felony Threshold |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Accident involving death or great bodily harm |
| Alaska | Accident involving injury or damage to property in excess of $1,000 |
| Arizona | Accident involving death or serious injury |
| Arkansas | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| California | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $5,000 |
| Colorado | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Connecticut | Accident involving death or serious injury |
| Delaware | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Florida | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Georgia | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Hawaii | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Idaho | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Illinois | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Indiana | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Iowa | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Kansas | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Kentucky | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Louisiana | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Maine | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Maryland | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Massachusetts | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Michigan | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Minnesota | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Mississippi | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Missouri | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Montana | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Nebraska | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Nevada | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| New Hampshire | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| New Jersey | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| New Mexico | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| New York | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| North Carolina | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| North Dakota | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Ohio | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Oklahoma | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Oregon | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Pennsylvania | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Rhode Island | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| South Carolina | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| South Dakota | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Tennessee | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Texas | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Utah | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Vermont | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Virginia | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Washington | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| West Virginia | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $500 |
| Wisconsin | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
| Wyoming | Accident involving injury or death, or property damage in excess of $1,000 |
Factors That Can Determine Felony Charges
While the threshold for felony hit and run charges varies by state, there are several factors that can determine whether a driver is charged with a felony:
- Severity of injuries or damage: The more severe the injuries or damage caused by the accident, the more likely it is that the driver will face felony charges.
- Intent or recklessness: If the driver intentionally left the scene of the accident or drove recklessly, they may face felony charges.
- Prior criminal history: If the driver has a prior criminal history, including previous hit and run charges, they may face more severe penalties, including felony charges.
- Age and experience of the driver: Young or inexperienced drivers may be more likely to face felony charges due to their lack of maturity and judgment.
Penalties for Felony Hit and Run
The penalties for felony hit and run charges can be severe and include:
- Prison time: 2-5 years or more in prison
- Fines: $1,000 to $5,000 or more
- Community service: Hundreds of hours of community service
- License suspension: Revocation of driving privileges
- Civil penalties: Victims may be entitled to civil penalties, including compensation for medical expenses and property damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the threshold for felony hit and run charges varies by state, the consequences for those convicted can be severe. If you are facing hit and run charges, it is essential to work with an experienced attorney to understand the laws and potential penalties in your state. By doing so, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome.
