Leaving the Scene Lawyer Staten Island — What Are Your Legal Options?
A leaving the scene charge in Staten Island is a serious offense under NY VTL § 600, carrying potential jail time and license revocation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced representation for these cases in Richmond County. Contact us 24/7 to discuss your defense.
What Is Leaving the Scene of an Accident in New York?
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600, leaving the scene of an accident (commonly called hit-and-run) occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop, provide identification, or render reasonable assistance. The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident involved property damage, personal injury, or death. A property damage violation is a traffic infraction, while injury or death can elevate the charge to a Class A misdemeanor or Class E felony. The New York State Senate legislation site provides the full text of VTL § 600.
Last verified: April 2026 | Richmond County Supreme Court | NY Senate legislation site
Official Resources
Insider Procedural Edge: Handling Your Case in Richmond County
In Richmond County, leaving the scene cases are prosecuted at the Richmond County Supreme Court. The court takes these charges seriously, especially when injuries are involved.
An experienced hit and run defense lawyer Staten Island can challenge the evidence, including witness identification and police reports.
- Step 1: Do not speak to police without an attorney present.
- Step 2: Contact a fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Staten Island immediately.
- Step 3: Preserve any evidence, including photos of your vehicle and the scene.
- Step 4: Attend all court dates at Richmond County Supreme Court.
- Step 5: Follow your attorney’s advice on plea negotiations or trial.
Penalties for Leaving the Scene in Staten Island
In Staten Island, leaving the scene of an accident carries penalties ranging from fines to felony charges, depending on the severity of the incident.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property damage only | Traffic infraction | None | Up to $250 | Points on license | Driver Responsibility Assessment |
| Personal injury | Class A misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | License revocation | Possible civil lawsuit |
| Death or serious injury | Class E felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | License revocation | Felony record, possible restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results
No verifiable case result is available for this jurisdiction/topic. Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Location and Service Area
Our NY location serves clients at Richmond County (Staten Island) courts, accessible via I-278, Staten Island Expressway, and West Shore Expressway. We are near the Richmond County Courthouse in St. George, the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, and the St. George area.
We serve all neighborhoods of Staten Island: St. George, New Dorp, Tottenville, Great Kills, Stapleton, and Port Richmond.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leaving the Scene in Staten Island
Do I need a lawyer for a leaving the scene charge in Staten Island?
Yes. A leaving the scene charge can result in jail time, fines, and license revocation. An experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and build a defense.
What is the penalty for leaving the scene of an accident with injuries in Staten Island?
It depends. If injuries are involved, the charge is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. License revocation is also possible.
Can I get my license back after a leaving the scene conviction in Staten Island?
It depends. License revocation periods vary. An attorney can help you handle the reinstatement process with the NY DMV and potentially reduce the impact on your driving privileges.
Is leaving the scene a felony in New York?
It depends. Leaving the scene is a traffic infraction for property damage only. If someone is injured, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor. If someone dies, it becomes a Class E felony.
How long do I have to report an accident in Staten Island?
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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.