ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Accidents and Insurance

Accidents

What does "leaving the scene of an accident" mean?

Consult a lawyer about your state's criminal law for this offense. Generally, drivers of vehicles involved in an accident in which personal injury or property damage occurs must stop and identify themselves and their vehicles. Drivers must also notify police, and help any injured persons. Even if the driver has a reason for leaving the scene of the accident or doesn't own the vehicle, he or she can still be liable.