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Arizona Hit and Run Lawyer – Tamou Law Group
Being involved in a hit and run incident in Arizona is a serious offense that can result in life-altering legal consequences. Arizona law strictly enforces penalties against drivers who leave the scene of an accident, regardless of the severity of the incident. If you are facing hit and run charges, you need an experienced Arizona hit and run lawyer to help you navigate the complex legal process and defend your rights.
At Tamou Law Group, our experienced legal team, led by Michael Tamou, specializes in defending clients accused of hit and run. We understand how stressful these charges can be, and our goal is to provide you with expert legal defense. As one of the leading Arizona hit and run lawyers, we are committed to building a strong defense strategy to help you avoid the most severe penalties.
What is Hit and Run in Arizona?
Hit and run, under Arizona law, refers to the act of leaving the scene of an accident without providing identification or offering assistance to others involved. Arizona’s hit and run laws, covered under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 28-661, mandate that drivers involved in an accident must stop, provide their information, and offer assistance if necessary. This applies to both accidents resulting in injury or death and those causing only property damage. However, hit and run charges can be significantly more severe if combined with other offenses like DUI (driving under the influence), unlawful flight, or endangerment.
For instance, if a driver involved in a hit and run is later found to have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they could face additional charges of DUI, which can enhance the penalties, including longer prison sentences, increased fines, and the suspension of driving privileges. If the driver fled the scene to evade law enforcement, they could also be charged with unlawful flight under ARS § 28-622.01, further compounding the legal consequences. Additionally, if the accident created a substantial risk of imminent death or serious injury to others, the driver could face endangerment charges under ARS § 13-1201, further elevating the severity of the case.
When combined, these charges can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. As a result, it is critical to work with an experienced Arizona hit and run lawyer who understands how to navigate the complexities of multiple charges, including DUI, unlawful flight, and endangerment, to develop a strong defense
In Arizona, hit and run can apply to different types of incidents, including:
- Collisions involving injuries or death: Leaving the scene of an accident where someone is injured or killed is considered a felony.
- Collisions involving only property damage: Even in cases where no one is injured, leaving the scene of an accident that causes property damage can still result in criminal charges.
ARS § 28-661: Duty to Stop at the Scene of an Accident
Arizona’s hit and run statute, ARS § 28-661, outlines the responsibilities of drivers involved in an accident. According to the law:
- Any driver involved in an accident that results in injury or death must stop and remain at the scene.
- The driver must provide their name, address, and vehicle registration to the other party or law enforcement.
- If anyone is injured, the driver is required to render reasonable assistance, including calling for emergency medical help if necessary.
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in felony charges, particularly if the accident involves serious injury or death.
At Tamou Law Group, we understand how complex hit and run cases can be. As an experienced Arizona hit and run lawyer, Michael Tamou can help you navigate the legal process and provide a defense that focuses on reducing or dismissing the charges.
Types of Hit and Run Offenses in Arizona
Arizona hit and run laws classify the offense based on the severity of the accident. There are two primary categories: hit and run involving injury or death and hit and run involving property damage.
- Hit and Run Involving Injury or Death:
- When a driver is involved in an accident that results in injury or death, leaving the scene without fulfilling their legal responsibilities is a Class 2 felony in Arizona. The penalties for this type of offense can be severe and may include long-term imprisonment and significant fines.
- Hit and Run Involving Property Damage:
- Leaving the scene of an accident that results only in property damage is a Class 3 misdemeanor. However, the penalties can still be significant, including jail time, fines, and suspension of driving privileges.
Understanding the classification of your hit and run charge is essential to building a strong defense. At Tamou Law Group, we have extensive experience handling all types of hit and run cases, and as a skilled Arizona hit and run lawyer, Michael Tamou will guide you through each step of the legal process.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Arizona
The penalties for hit and run in Arizona vary depending on the severity of the accident and whether injuries or fatalities occurred. Here’s a breakdown of the potential consequences:
- Hit and Run Involving Injury or Death:
- Class 2 Felony: If the accident results in serious physical injury or death, and the driver leaves the scene, they could be charged with a Class 2 felony. A conviction for this offense can result in:
- A prison sentence of 3 to 12.5 years.
- Substantial fines and court fees.
- Restitution payments to the victim or their family.
- Permanent felony record, which can affect future employment and housing opportunities.
- Class 3 Felony: If the accident results in minor injuries and the driver leaves the scene, it is considered a Class 3 felony. This offense carries:
- 2 to 8.75 years in prison.
- Fines of up to $150,000, plus additional court fees and restitution.
- Class 2 Felony: If the accident results in serious physical injury or death, and the driver leaves the scene, they could be charged with a Class 2 felony. A conviction for this offense can result in:
- Hit and Run Involving Property Damage:
- Class 3 Misdemeanor: If the accident only involves damage to property (such as another vehicle or object), the offense is typically classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor. The penalties for this can include:
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- Up to 30 days in jail.
- Fines of up to $500.
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
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- While a misdemeanor hit and run charge may seem less severe, it can still have long-term consequences, especially if it leads to a license suspension or increased insurance rates.
Given the harsh penalties, it’s vital to work with a skilled Arizona hit and run lawyer who can help you fight the charges and protect your rights. At Tamou Law Group, we will thoroughly investigate your case and explore all possible defenses.
Common Defenses for Hit and Run Charges
If you’re facing hit and run charges in Arizona, having a knowledgeable Arizona hit and run lawyer on your side is essential. There are several defense strategies that can be employed depending on the specifics of your case. Some common defenses include:
- Lack of Knowledge: One of the most effective defenses in hit and run cases is that the driver was unaware that an accident occurred. In some situations, particularly those involving minor property damage, a driver may not realize that they hit another vehicle or object. If this can be proven, it may lead to the dismissal of charges.
- Involuntary Fleeing: If you left the scene of the accident due to fear for your safety, you might be able to argue that your departure was involuntary. For example, if you felt threatened by another party at the scene or believed you were in imminent danger, an Arizona hit and run lawyer can present this defense to mitigate the charges.
- Medical Emergency: If the driver experienced a medical emergency that prevented them from stopping at the scene, this can be a valid defense. Medical conditions such as a heart attack or stroke while driving can impair the driver’s ability to make rational decisions in the moment.
- Mistaken Identity: In some hit and run cases, law enforcement may accuse the wrong individual. If there is no clear evidence linking you to the accident, an experienced Arizona hit and run lawyer can argue that you were not involved in the incident. This may involve analyzing surveillance footage, witness testimony, or the condition of your vehicle.
At Tamou Law Group, we take the time to thoroughly investigate every hit and run case. We gather evidence, consult with experts, and develop defense strategies that focus on reducing or dismissing the charges against you.
Legal Process for Hit and Run Cases in Arizona
When you are charged with hit and run in Arizona, understanding the legal process is crucial. Each step of the legal proceedings will influence the outcome of your case, and having a skilled Arizona hit and run lawyer by your side can make all the difference. Here’s what to expect:
- Investigation and Arrest: After the hit and run occurs, law enforcement will investigate the accident, interviewing witnesses and examining the scene. If there is evidence linking you to the incident, such as your vehicle’s description or license plate number, you may be arrested and charged with hit and run.
- Arraignment: Once charged, you will have an arraignment hearing, where the charges will be formally read, and you will have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Your Arizona hit and run lawyer will be present to advise you on the best course of action.
- Discovery: During the discovery phase, your lawyer will gather all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any surveillance footage. This stage is crucial for identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pretrial Motions: Depending on the evidence, your lawyer may file pretrial motions to suppress evidence or seek a dismissal of the charges. For example, if law enforcement failed to follow proper procedures during the investigation, the evidence they obtained may be inadmissible.
- Trial or Plea Deal: If your case goes to trial, your Arizona hit and run lawyer will present your defense before a judge or jury. In many cases, however, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution. This could result in reduced charges or penalties.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court will determine your sentence based on the severity of the offense and any mitigating or aggravating factors. Your lawyer will present mitigating evidence to argue for the most lenient sentence possible.
At Tamou Law Group, we understand how overwhelming the legal process can be, and we are committed to providing you with the guidance and representation you need. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Why You Need an Arizona Hit and Run Lawyer
Being charged with hit and run in Arizona can have serious consequences for your future, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Hiring an experienced Arizona hit and run lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of these charges on your life.
At Tamou Law Group, we have the experience and expertise needed to defend against hit and run charges. Here’s why choosing our firm can make a difference in your case:
- Extensive Legal Knowledge: We understand the intricacies of Arizona’s hit and run laws and will use this knowledge to build a strong defense on your behalf.
- Thorough Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence and analyzing the facts to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Aggressive Defense: Our goal is to get your charges reduced or dismissed. We will challenge the evidence against you, cross-examine witnesses, and present a compelling case in your defense.
- Negotiation Skills: If a plea deal is in your best interest, we will negotiate with the prosecution to minimize the penalties you face. If a trial is necessary, we will be fully prepared to present your defense in court.
- Client-Centered Approach: We understand how stressful hit and run charges can be, and we are committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation throughout the process.
Conclusion: Protect Your Future with an Arizona Hit and Run Lawyer
If you are facing hit and run charges in Arizona, it’s essential to get legal help as soon as possible. The penalties for a conviction can be severe, but with the right defense strategy, you can fight these charges and protect your future. At Tamou Law Group, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the best possible legal defense.
Contact Tamou Law Group today at 623-321-4699 for a free consultation with an experienced Arizona hit and run lawyer. Let us help you navigate this challenging situation and work toward a favorable resolution for your case.
