The Legislature in the State of New York is considering changing the criminal penalties related to hit and run car accidents. New York State Legislator, Lee Zeldin, from Shirley, Long Island recently stated “many drivers believe if they are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, there is more jail time by staying at the scene of a car accident.” Zeldin went on to say “this is a problem with State law that needs to be fixed, you are not going to see any benefit from leaving the scene.”
Longer Incarceration
There is a bill in the State Legislature that increases the maximum penalty for leaving the scene of a car accident when someone dies. The new law changes the length of the term of imprisonment. It would increase to 5 to 15 years in prison. This would be the same penalty currently in existence for second degree manslaughter.
If this bill passes the State Legislature, the penalties related to leaving the scene of an accident where someone is only injured would also be dramatically increased too. The current law has a 1 ½ year to 4 years of imprisonment for leaving the scene of a car accident. The new law would change the penalty to 2 ½ to 7 years in prison.
About The Author
Elliot S. Schlissel is an attorney practicing law throughout the metropolitan New York area. Elliot and his staff of four lawyers represent individuals being investigated related to criminal matters and individuals charged with crimes. We offer free consultations and the phones are monitored 24/7.