In Westchester County, leaving the scene of an accident involving injury is a Class E felony under NY VTL § 600 carrying up to 4 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending these charges. A Leaving the Scene Lawyer Westchester County can challenge the evidence and protect your driving privileges.
What Is Leaving the Scene of an Accident Under New York Law?
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600, leaving the scene of an accident (also known as hit and run) occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop, provide identification, or render aid. The severity depends on whether the accident involved property damage, personal injury, or death. A hit and run defense lawyer Westchester County must understand the specific elements the prosecution must prove, including that you knew or should have known an accident occurred. The law imposes a duty to remain at the scene, exchange information, and assist injured persons. Violations range from traffic infractions to felonies based on the outcome of the accident.
Last verified: April 2026 | Westchester County Supreme Court | NY Senate Legislation
Official Legal References
- NY VTL § 600 (Official New York State Legislation)
- Westchester County Supreme Court Official Website
Insider Procedural Edge: Defending Leaving the Scene Charges in Westchester County
In Westchester County, prosecutors often rely on witness statements and surveillance footage to prove you knew an accident occurred. A strong defense can challenge whether the accident was noticeable or whether you had actual knowledge of the collision. The court process at Westchester County Supreme Court involves arraignment, discovery, motion practice, and potential trial.
- Contact a Leaving the Scene Lawyer Westchester County immediately after the charge is filed.
- Preserve all evidence, including vehicle damage photos and accident scene documentation.
- Do not speak to police or insurance adjusters without legal representation.
- Attend all court appearances at Westchester County Supreme Court, 111 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, White Plains, NY 10601.
- Work with your attorney to file motions challenging the sufficiency of evidence.
- Consider plea negotiations or trial based on the strength of the prosecution’s case.
In Westchester County, leaving the scene of an accident carries penalties ranging from traffic infractions to felony charges with up to 4 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving scene — property damage only | Traffic infraction | None | Up to $250 | Points assessed | Civil liability |
| Leaving scene — personal injury | Class A misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | License suspension possible | Driver Responsibility Assessment |
| Leaving scene — serious injury | Class E felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | License revocation | Permanent criminal record |
| Leaving scene — death | Class D felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | License revocation | Potential wrongful death civil suit |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Westchester County Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. The firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep legal knowledge and advocacy skills. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects a commitment to aggressive representation for every client.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. While specific Westchester County leaving the scene case results are not available for this jurisdiction, the firm’s track record demonstrates consistent success in traffic and criminal defense matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Westchester County Leaving the Scene Lawyer Near You
Our New York location serves clients at Westchester County courts, accessible via I-87 (NYS Thruway), I-84, I-287, and the Taconic State Parkway. We represent clients throughout Westchester County including White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Scarsdale, Bronxville, Rye, Ossining, Peekskill, Tarrytown, Mamaroneck, Port Chester, Dobbs Ferry, Larchmont, and Hastings-on-Hudson. A fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Westchester County can help you handle the legal process.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Leaving the Scene Charges in Westchester County
Can I be charged with leaving the scene if I didn’t know I hit something?
Yes. New York law requires that you knew or should have known an accident occurred. If the collision was minor or you were unaware, a Leaving the Scene Lawyer Westchester County can argue lack of knowledge as a defense.
What should I do immediately after being charged with leaving the scene in Westchester County?
Contact a hit and run defense lawyer Westchester County immediately. Do not speak to police without counsel. Preserve any evidence, including vehicle damage photos and witness contact information.
Is leaving the scene of an accident a felony in New York?
It depends. Leaving the scene involving property damage is a traffic infraction. Personal injury makes it a Class A misdemeanor. Serious injury or death elevates the charge to a Class E or Class D felony, respectively.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in Westchester County?
Yes. License suspension or revocation is possible depending on the severity of the charge. A fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Westchester County can fight to protect your driving privileges.
How long do I have to report an accident in New York?
You must stop immediately at the scene. If you cannot stop, you must return to the scene as soon as possible. Failure to do so can result in additional charges.