If you committed a traffic violation, either intentionally or negligently, and caused a car accident with a serious injury, this could lead to charges for a Class 3 misdemeanor offense in Arizona. You could be at risk of facing jail time, fines and the suspension of your driving privilege. To protect your rights as much as possible in this situation, immediate criminal defense representation is highly recommended.
Stop at the Scene
Never leave or flee the scene of an automobile accident in Arizona. This can lead to additional criminal charges for hit-and-run, which can make your legal situation much worse. Pull your vehicle over as near to the scene as you can, in a safe location. You are legally required to remain at the scene to exchange information with the others involved and render reasonable aid to those injured.
Call 911
You always need to report a car accident to the police in Arizona that involves injuries, deaths or more than $2,000 in property damage. Failing to notify the police could lead to additional charges brought against you. Request an ambulance come to the scene for the person who has been seriously hurt.
Do Not Incriminate Yourself
Even if you believe you were at fault for causing the accident because of a traffic violation, do not admit fault. Do not confess guilt or apologize to the other parties involved. Be polite and cooperate with the authorities, but do not incriminate yourself by taking the blame. Use your legal right to remain silent to avoid saying something that could significantly hurt your future.
Gather Evidence
Before you leave the scene of the accident, do your best to collect evidence and important information. This includes taking photos of both vehicles and the crash scene as a whole. Gather contact information from any motor vehicle passengers and eyewitnesses. Look around for video cameras and dashcams that may have recorded the crash. Write down the police report number.
Protect Your Rights
If you are arrested at the scene of the car accident, listen carefully to your Miranda rights and use them to your advantage. When speaking to law enforcement, stick to the basic facts of the accident. Do not offer more information than is requested. Ask for a lawyer as soon as possible.
If you are charged with a criminal traffic violation for causing serious physical injury or death, this is a misdemeanor offense in Arizona that could put you in jail for up to 30 days. It is crucial to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as you are arrested or charged with a crime in connection with a serious injury accident.
Hire an Experienced Criminal Traffic Violation Attorney in Arizona From the Beginning
Up to 30 days in jail, 1 year of probation, $1,000 in fines, mandatory traffic school, driver’s license suspension and up to $100,000 in victim restitution…these are the harsh penalties you could face for a criminal traffic violation conviction in Arizona. Hiring the right attorney early on can protect you from the worst possible outcome of a criminal case against you following a serious injury crash.
A criminal defense lawyer with experience handling serious traffic violation cases will know how to combat accusations against you, negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges, look for reasons to get the case dismissed and represent you during a criminal trial, if necessary.
If you are being accused of causing a serious injury accident due to a traffic violation, you can count on a lawyer from Corso Law Group to stand up for your rights and best interests. Contact us at (480) 471-4616 for a free case review.
