Leaving Scene of an Accident (“Hit & Run”) Ticket

An experienced traffic law attorney can get a “Leaving the Scene of an Accident” or “Hit & Run” ticket reduced from a 6-point or 12-point ticket to a non-moving, no-point violation that won’t affect your driving record. The outcome depends on your driving history and the details of your case.

What’s the Maximum Penalty for “Leaving the Scene of an Accident” in Missouri?

The maximum potential penalty is 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine if you plead guilty or are convicted of a misdemeanor charge of “Leaving the Scene of an Accident” (“Hit & Run”) in Missouri.

According to Missouri law RSMO 577.060, if you are charged with a felony “Leaving the Scene of an Accident” or “Hit & Run,” the maximum penalty is 4 years in prison and a $5,000 fine, if the accident resulted in:

• Physical injury to another person, or
• Property damage over $1,000, or
• Defendant has a prior conviction for “Leaving the Scene”

How Many Points on Your Driving Record for a “Hit & Run” Ticket?

If your ticket for “Leaving the Scene of an Accident” or “Hit & Run” was issued by a Missouri state trooper and you pleaded guilty or were convicted in state circuit court:

• 12 points will be added to your driving record,
• Your license will be revoked for 1 year, and
• You will not be eligible for a hardship license (Limited Driving Privilege)

If you pleaded guilty or were convicted of “Leaving the Scene” or “Hit & Run” in municipal  court:

• 6 points will be added to your driving record, and
• You will be eligible to apply for a hardship license (Limited Driving Privilege)

License Suspension After “Leaving the Scene” Conviction

The State of Missouri can suspend the drivers licenses of both the driver and the owner of the vehicle if you plead guilty or are convicted of “Leaving the Scene” or “Hit & Run” and the vehicle you were driving was not insured at the time of the accident.

License Suspension if You Don’t Pay for Damages to Other Vehicle

Your license will be suspended if you leave the scene of an accident that you caused and you fail to pay for the damages to the other vehicle.

What to Do if You Are Involved in an Accident in Missouri

If you hit another vehicle, Missouri law requires that you do the following:

• • Call the police immediately to report the accident.
  • Call an ambulance if anyone is injured.
  • Move your car to the side of the road if it’s in a place that might cause other drivers to crash into it.
  • If the accident happens at night, try to warn oncoming traffic by using flares, your car’s hazard lights, or a flashlight.
  • Exchange information with the other driver, including your name, address, vehicle identification, and car insurance information.
  • Don’t leave the scene of the accident until a police officer gives you permission to leave.

For more information about what to do when involved in an accident, consult the Missouri Dept. of Revenue website.