Hit and Run: A Criminal Offense

Being involved in a car accident is always unpleasant and can often lead to more complicated issues, but how you handle the immediate aftermath is paramount. In some cases of hit and runs, the person at fault may flee the scene due to a number of reasons that can include: no insurance, no license, suspended license, being intoxicated, or even to simply avoid any fines. Sometimes, however, the driver may panic and flee the scene when another person, or persons, may have been injured - even fatally so.

Car accidents, or the events leading up to the accident are more often considered civil than criminal. If negligence is found that results in the injury of another person, many states follow through with a criminal charge.

Colliding with another person or object, then fleeing the scene is immediately considered a criminal offense and if a fatality occurs, the driver could be charged with vehicular manslaughter, in addition to a number of charges related to fleeing the scene of a crime. That's why it is extremely important to always remain at the scene of the accident, no matter who is at fault.

Individuals convicted of a criminal charge can also then be sued in civil court for damages relating to the loss of a loved one, stacking the amount of damages one occurs after fleeing the scene exponentially.

Always remain calm and collected when the incident occurs and be sure to contact Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney Paul Moraski if you believe the accident includes a criminal charge.


The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski
221 Essex Street, Suite 51
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
Tel: 978.744.1200
Cell: 978.397.0011
Fax: 978.825.1370

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