Paul J Tafelski, Michigan Defense Law

Michigan Laws on Fleeing the Scene of an Accident

In Michigan, leaving the scene of an accident without stopping to provide information or offer assistance is considered a serious offense. Understanding what is considered a hit and run is essential for all drivers, as failing to follow the state's rules after an accident can result in significant legal consequences. Michigan law clearly outlines the responsibilities of drivers involved in accidents, whether the incident involves property damage, personal injury, or both.

The law mandates that drivers must stop immediately after an accident and remain at the scene until they have exchanged relevant information with the other party or law enforcement. This includes providing details like name, address, and insurance information. Fleeing the scene without fulfilling these obligations is defined as a hit and run, and the penalties can range from fines to jail time, depending on the severity of the accident.

Legal Responsibilities After an Accident
When looking at what is considered a hit and run, Michigan law applies to any accident, no matter how minor. Drivers must stop their vehicle as close to the accident site as possible without obstructing traffic. Once stopped, they are required to check for injuries, assist anyone in need, and provide contact and insurance information. If the accident involves an unattended vehicle or property, the driver must leave a note with their information in a visible location.

Failure to do so constitutes what is considered a hit and run under Michigan law, and even minor accidents can lead to serious consequences if the driver leaves without properly reporting the incident. For accidents involving injuries, the driver must also report the accident to law enforcement immediately, as this is another legal requirement designed to ensure that proper medical attention is provided and an official record is created.

Penalties for Fleeing the Scene
The penalties for a hit and run in Michigan vary based on the severity of the accident. If the incident involves only property damage, the driver can face fines, points on their driver’s license, and potential license suspension. However, if the accident results in injury or death, the penalties increase significantly. In such cases, what is considered a hit and run may result in felony charges, with potential sentences ranging from a few years to up to 15 years in prison, depending on the circumstances.

In addition to criminal penalties, drivers who flee the scene of an accident often face civil lawsuits from the injured party or their family. These lawsuits can lead to substantial financial damages, particularly if the fleeing driver is found liable for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. Insurance companies may also deny claims related to hit and run accidents, leaving the driver personally responsible for covering the costs.

Common Reasons for Fleeing the Scene
Drivers leave the scene of an accident for various reasons, though none of them justify the act legally. Some may panic, while others may fear the repercussions of driving without insurance or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Unfortunately, fleeing the scene typically worsens the situation. When determining what is considered a hit and run, Michigan courts do not consider the driver's reasons for fleeing as a defense; leaving the scene is a crime regardless of intent.

Drivers are always better off staying at the scene and fulfilling their legal obligations, even if they are at fault. Fleeing often turns a simple traffic violation or accident into a criminal matter, significantly increasing the legal and financial consequences.

How to Avoid Hit and Run Charges
To avoid being charged with what is considered a hit and run, drivers should always follow the proper steps after an accident. Stop immediately, check for injuries, exchange information with the other party, and call the police if necessary. Even in cases where the other party is not present, such as hitting a parked car, leaving a note with your contact details is a must. Taking responsibility at the scene of the accident can prevent the situation from escalating into a hit and run charge.
If a driver later realizes they were involved in an accident but did not stop at the time, it’s important to report the incident to law enforcement as soon as possible. This proactive step can potentially reduce the legal consequences, as it shows the driver’s intent to correct the situation rather than flee responsibility.

In conclusion, what is considered a hit and run in Michigan is any instance where a driver involved in an accident fails to stop, exchange information, or assist those in need. Whether the accident results in minor property damage or serious injury, leaving the scene can lead to severe legal and financial consequences. It’s essential for drivers to understand their legal obligations and act responsibly to avoid turning a simple accident into a criminal offense. 

Understanding Michigan's Hit and Run Laws: What Drivers Should Know

Michigan's hit and run laws are designed to hold drivers accountable when they are involved in an accident. What is considered a hit and run? A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop, provide their contact information, or offer assistance to anyone injured at the scene. This definition applies to accidents involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or even stationary property, making it essential for Michigan drivers to understand their legal obligations.

When determining what is considered a hit and run in Michigan, it's important to note that even minor accidents require the involved drivers to exchange information. If the accident causes property damage or injury, the law mandates that drivers remain at the scene and assist anyone in need. Failing to stop or fleeing the scene is illegal, regardless of the severity of the accident. In some cases, drivers may think it’s acceptable to leave after a small fender bender, but Michigan law requires drivers to handle even minor collisions responsibly.

The penalties for a hit and run can vary based on the circumstances of the accident. For incidents that only involve property damage, leaving the scene is classified as a misdemeanor and can lead to a jail sentence of up to 90 days and fines. However, when the accident results in injury or death, the consequences become much more severe. In these cases, what is considered a hit and run escalates the charge to a felony, with potential prison sentences of up to five years for injuries and up to 15 years if someone dies. Fleeing the scene under these circumstances significantly worsens the legal situation for the driver.

Aside from criminal penalties, there are also civil consequences for hit and run offenses in Michigan. Victims of hit and run accidents often seek compensation through civil lawsuits, aiming to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Drivers who flee the scene are often found liable for these damages, further increasing the financial burden they face. Understanding what is considered a hit and run can help clarify that fleeing an accident doesn’t just expose drivers to criminal prosecution—it can also result in costly civil actions.

In addition to fines, imprisonment, and civil lawsuits, a driver convicted of a hit and run in Michigan can face other significant consequences, such as the suspension or revocation of their driver’s license. If the hit and run involves serious injury, the Michigan Secretary of State can suspend the driver’s license for up to one year. For repeat offenders or in cases of fatal accidents, the suspension could last even longer, causing long-term challenges in both personal and professional life. Knowing what is considered a hit and run can help drivers avoid these harsh penalties by ensuring they follow the law after any accident.

In conclusion, Michigan’s hit and run laws impose serious consequences for drivers who leave the scene of an accident without providing information or assistance. Understanding what is considered a hit and run is crucial for every driver, as failing to follow these legal obligations can lead to criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and the loss of driving privileges. By staying informed and taking responsibility after any collision, drivers can avoid the severe penalties that come with a hit and run offense in Michigan. 

What Constitutes a Hit and Run in Michigan?

In Michigan, being involved in a car accident comes with legal responsibilities, and failing to meet those obligations can lead to serious consequences. But what is considered a hit and run? A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without stopping to provide their contact information or assist those who may be injured. This applies not only to collisions with other vehicles but also to accidents involving pedestrians or property. Understanding what qualifies as a hit and run is essential for drivers who want to avoid both criminal and civil penalties.

Michigan law is very clear about what is considered a hit and run. Regardless of whether the accident is minor or major, drivers are required to stop and exchange information with the other party. This includes providing your name, address, and vehicle registration number. If someone is injured, you are also obligated to offer assistance or call emergency services. Leaving the scene without doing so constitutes a hit and run, and the severity of the penalties will depend on the circumstances of the accident.

The consequences of a hit and run in Michigan vary depending on the damage or injuries involved. For accidents that result in property damage alone, the offense is typically classified as a misdemeanor. This means the driver could face up to 90 days in jail and fines. However, if the accident involves injury or death, what is considered a hit and run escalates significantly. In cases where someone is injured, the driver could face up to five years in prison, and if the accident results in a fatality, the penalties can include up to 15 years of imprisonment.

Beyond criminal penalties, there are also civil consequences for hit and run incidents. Drivers who flee the scene of an accident may be sued by the victims for damages. These lawsuits can cover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and emotional distress. Knowing what is considered a hit and run can help clarify that even if you weren’t at fault for the initial accident, fleeing can make you financially responsible for all related costs. Failing to stop and assist can lead to long-term financial and legal complications.

Another important consequence of a hit and run in Michigan is the potential for driver's license suspension. The Michigan Secretary of State can suspend or revoke a driver's license if they are convicted of a hit and run, especially if it involves injury or death. Depending on the severity of the incident, the license suspension could last up to one year or longer. This makes understanding what is considered a hit and run even more critical, as the loss of driving privileges can significantly disrupt daily life and work responsibilities.

In conclusion, a hit and run in Michigan involves leaving the scene of an accident without providing necessary information or assistance. Whether the accident results in minor damage or serious injury, what is considered a hit and run is clear under Michigan law, and the consequences can be severe. Criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and license suspension are all potential outcomes of a hit and run conviction. Staying informed about your legal obligations after an accident can help prevent the harsh penalties associated with these offenses. 

Paul J Tafelski, Michigan Defense Law

Paul J Tafelski, Michigan Defense Law | Criminal Attorney and DUI Lawyer

2525 S Telegraph Rd suite 100, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, United States

(248) 451-2200