Tennessee Hit and Run Laws: A hit and run accident in Tennessee is a serious offence that carries severe consequences for the driver. When it comes to hit and run incidents, it’s imperative to understand the state’s laws and regulations, regardless of whether you are a resident or just passing through.
The purpose of this article is to cover what you need to know about hit and run penalties in Tennessee, such as the legal definition, what you should do after a Tennessee hit and run accident, and what the consequences are.
Legal Definition of Hit and Run in Tennessee
Leaving the scene of an accident without exchanging insurance or personal information with the other driver(s) is defined as a hit and run in Tennessee. Any accident that causes property or person damage is covered, regardless of fault or severity.
Tennessee Hit and Run Laws Drivers
Depending on the nature of the accident, the penalties for hit-and-run drivers in Tennessee might differ.
- There is a possibility that a hit and run could be charged as a Class A misdemeanour in the event that anyone was injured in the crash.
- Depending on the severity of the offence, the punishment may include up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, a fine as high as $2,500, and a suspension of your driver’s license.
- If there is only property damage as a result of the accident, the driver might be charged with a Class C misdemeanour, which carries the punishment of a suspension of the driver’s license and a $50 fine, as well as jail time of up to 30 days. Penalties may depend on the dollar amount of the property damage.
- A driver who leaves the scene of an accident while under the influence or who causes bodily harm or death will likely be subject to additional criminal charges if they were found to be driving under the influence.
Consequences of Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Tennessee
If you are charged with leaving the scene of an accident with property damage in Tennessee, you can face up to a year in prison and a $2500 fine for the first offence of leaving the scene of an accident with property damage. The fleeing driver is guilty of a felony if the accident results in serious injury or death as a result of his actions.
If you are caught hit and run in Tennessee, you could be fined and sent to jail as well as suspend your driver’s license and have your insurance rates increased.
- In Tennessee, there is a legal system based on comparative negligence.
- If an accident occurs on your private property and you are found to have been negligent, you may be able to sue the owner.
- In the case of a valid reason for fearing for your safety, you may leave the scene.
- Deaths or injuries caused by accidents must be reported.
- There is a misdemeanour charge for failing to report a reportable accident.
- It is a misdemeanour to fail to comply with statutory requirements.
- It is a felony to leave the scene of an accident that results in death.
What to do if you are involved in a hit and run Tennessee
If you are involved in a Tennessee hit and run accident in Tennessee, it is important to stay calm and take the following steps:
- Stop your vehicle and assess the situation. If someone is injured, call 911 and get medical help immediately.
- Call the police and report the accident. Provide them with as much information as possible, including the make and model of the other vehicle and any identifying marks or license plate numbers.
- Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance information.
- Take pictures of the scene and any damage to your vehicle or other property.
- Contact your insurance company and report the accident.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Tennessee
It is important to keep in mind that the penalties for a hit and run in Tennessee can be severe, including:
- License suspension
- Monetary fines
- Jail time
- Community service
Conclusion
A Tennessee hit and run accident is a serious crime in Tennessee, with serious consequences for the driver involved. It is essential to understand the state laws and regulations surrounding hit and run incidents and what to do if you are involved in a hit and run. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you are protected and minimize the potential consequences of a hit and run.