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n Minnesota, basic driver negligence or carelessness that results in a motor vehicle accident does not immediately result in criminal charges. If personal injury or property damage occurs as a result of the accident, however, then the responsible driver must meet certain obligations. Failure to comply with these legal obligations can lead to criminal charges.
The state considers DUI or DWI as a serious crime, and the consequences are far worse when the DUI involves a hit and run. If you leave the scene of the accident that results in property damage, therefore failing to stop and provide relevant information to other involved parties, then you may be charged with a misdemeanor.
If you leave the scene of an accident where an individual is hurt or injured (regardless of fault) then you may be charged with either a gross misdemeanor or a felony depending on the injury’s severity and other circumstances. If the victim is severely injured or dies as a result of the accident and you fled the scene, then you may be charged with a felony DUI hit and run. Furthermore, even if the driver was not under the influence of alcohol, Minnesota law provides that a driver can still be charged with criminal vehicular operation, if they leave the scene and a substantial injury occurred to the the other driver or pedistrian.
A felony DUI hit and run is a very serious matter, as you will be charged with multiple offenses such as reckless driving, bodily injury, hit and run, and DUI. As a result, you will be facing a number of penalties, including imprisonment, license revocation, and a hefty fine.
If you find yourself involved in a Minnesota motor vehicle accident, do your best to keep calm. Stop your vehicle as soon as possible and exchange contact information with the involved parties. If anyone is seriously injured, you must contact local authorities to ask for help.
If you cause property damage, then you must try to locate the property owner, such as the driver of a parked car you hit. This may involve getting the vehicle’s license plate and contacting the local authorities, or perhaps leaving a note with your contact details.
In a DUI hit and run case, time is of the essence. If you are arrested for DUI hit and run, contact a good DWI defense attorney immediately. You are facing numerous criminal charges, and an attorney may be able to help you uncover facts that allow for either reduced charges, or even in some cases an acquittal or dismissal of the whole case.
