What Should You Do If You’re Involved in an Accident that Results in Damage to Another Vehicle? A.R.S. 28-662
Often considered a type of “hit-and-run,” it is unlawful for a person driving a vehicle to flee the scene after getting in an accident that results in damage to another vehicle.
According to A.R.S. 28-662, if a driver of a vehicle that caused damage to only another vehicle driven or attended by another person, they must:
- Immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to the accident scene as possible but must immediately return to the accident scene.
- Remain at the scene of the accident until they have fulfilled their duty by law to give information and assistance, per A.R.S. 28-663.
- Make the stop without obstructing traffic more than is necessary.
If the vehicle which caused the damage was a fully autonomous vehicle operating without a human driver or a neighborhood occupantless electric vehicle, the requirements of this section are satisfied if the fully autonomous vehicle or neighborhood occupantless electric vehicle:
- Immediately stops at the scene of the accident or as close to the accident scene as possible.
- Remains stopped at or as close as possible to the scene until the requirements to give information and assistance have been fulfilled per A.R.S. 28-663.
- Makes the stop without obstructing traffic more than necessary.
Penalties for Violations
Those who violate this statute by not following all requirements listed will be guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor. Convictions can lead to up to six months of incarceration.
Additionally, the court may order that offenders have their license or permission to drive revoked for up to one year.
If there is reasonable suspicion that the offending driver was under the influence of drugs, liquor, or vapors at the time of the accident, and that it played a part in causing the accident, the court may also order alcohol or drug screenings or classes in order for the driver to have their license reinstated.
RIDEOUT LAW GROUP
With offices in Lake Havasu City and Scottsdale, our firm serves the entire state of Arizona, with a particular focus on criminal defense, family law, and juvenile cases.
Our goal is for the best outcome for your criminal case, which can include:
- charges that are reduced or dropped.
- top experts reviewing your case.
- aggressive negotiations with the prosecution for plea bargains.
- fines or probation in lieu of jail time.
At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys are able to expertly examine the evidence in your case to provide a strong strategy for argument that leads to an outcome that is most favorable to you. We have experience in all types of criminal cases for both adults and juveniles, with positive outcomes both in plea negotiations as well as jury trial settings.
Call us today for a free consultation at 480-584-3328.