In the Bronx, leaving the scene of an incident involving injury is a Class D felony under NY VTL § 600, carrying up to 7 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Leaving the Scene Lawyer Bronx from our firm can explain your defense options.
Last verified: April 2026 | Westchester County Supreme Court | NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600 (official New York Senate)
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600 requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to stop, provide identification, and render reasonable assistance. Leaving the scene — commonly called “hit and run” — is a criminal offense in the Bronx. The severity of the charge depends on the damage or injury caused. A hit and run defense lawyer Bronx can help you understand the specific statute and how it applies to your case.
For leaving the scene charges specifically, NY VTL § 600 is the controlling statute. This differs from general traffic infractions under VTL § 1180 (speeding) or § 1128 (reckless driving). The key distinction is the duty to stop and identify yourself after an accident — failure to do so triggers criminal liability, not just a traffic ticket. A fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Bronx must analyze whether the prosecution can prove you knew an accident occurred.
Review the official statute: NY VTL § 600 (official New York Senate). For Bronx court procedures, visit the Bronx County Supreme Court website.
In Bronx County, prosecutors often file leaving the scene charges even when the driver claims they did not notice the accident. The key is whether the driver knew or should have known a collision occurred. Our firm observes that Bronx judges scrutinize police reports for evidence of consciousness of guilt — such as fleeing the area or hiding the vehicle.
- Do not leave the scene — stop immediately and call 911.
- Exchange information with the other driver and any witnesses.
- Document the scene with photos of damage, location, and injuries.
- Contact a Leaving the Scene Lawyer Bronx before speaking to police further.
- Preserve any evidence — your vehicle, phone records, and dashcam footage.
- Attend all court dates at Bronx County Criminal Court.
In the Bronx, leaving the scene of an accident carries penalties ranging from a traffic infraction to a Class D felony depending on injury or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving scene — property damage only | Traffic infraction | None | Up to $250 | 3 points | Civil liability for damages |
| Leaving scene — personal injury | Class A misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | 6 points + possible suspension | Driver Responsibility Assessment $100-$250/year for 3 years |
| Leaving scene — serious physical injury | Class E felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Revocation minimum 6 months | Permanent criminal record |
| Leaving scene — death | Class D felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Revocation minimum 1 year | Possible vehicular manslaughter charges |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge. Our firm represents clients across NY, VA, MD, NJ, and DC.
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. This includes dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts across traffic and criminal matters in NY, VA, MD, NJ, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our NY location serves clients at Bronx County courts, accessible via I-87 (Major Deegan Expressway) and the Cross Bronx Expressway. We are a Leaving the Scene Lawyer Bronx serving White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Scarsdale, Bronxville, Rye, Ossining, Peekskill, Tarrytown, Mamaroneck, Port Chester, Dobbs Ferry, Larchmont, and Hastings-on-Hudson.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Does New York have cash bail for leaving the scene charges?
Yes, but NY bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors. For felony leaving the scene charges, bail may still be set. Most defendants in Bronx County are released on recognizance for non-violent offenses.
What is an ACD in Bronx County for a leaving the scene case?
It depends. Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is available for some first-time leaving the scene offenses. Charges are adjourned for 6-12 months and automatically dismissed if you have no new arrests. ACD records can be sealed.
Can I get my criminal record sealed for a leaving the scene conviction in Bronx County?
Yes, NY offers conditional sealing under CPL § 160.59 for qualifying convictions (up to 2) after 10 years. ACD results in automatic sealing. Marijuana offenses have expanded eligibility.
What is the penalty for a leaving the scene misdemeanor in Bronx County?
A Class A misdemeanor for leaving the scene with injury carries up to 1 year in jail. Class B: up to 3 months. Violations: up to 15 days. Cases heard at Bronx County Criminal Court.
How long do I have to report an accident in New York?
You must stop immediately at the scene. If the accident involves injury, death, or property damage over $1,000, you must file an MV-104 form with the NY DMV within 10 days.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-20. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.