Hit and Run Defense (Article 276 / Admin 123)
Leaving the scene of an accident (Hit and Run) is punished in Georgia under both administrative and criminal law, depending on the consequences. If the accident resulted only in property damage, leaving leads to license suspension and administrative detention. However, if the accident caused bodily injury, leaving can be qualified as hiding the crime or leaving in danger, which significantly worsens the driver''s situation. Often drivers leave unknowingly (e.g., a truck driver didn''t feel the contact) or due to fear. Police use cameras and witnesses to identify the driver. If fleeing is confirmed, the driver loses moral ground in court, and the risk of imprisonment increases. Engaging a lawyer is essential to prove that leaving was unintentional or to arrange a voluntary surrender to mitigate liability.
What Does This Service Cover?
Lawyers listed on Legal.ge offer strategic defense:
- Voluntary Surrender: The lawyer communicates with the police to ensure the driver''s appearance is recorded as voluntary confession rather than arrest, which mitigates the sentence.
- Proving Lack of Intent: Substantiating that the driver did not notice the accident (e.g., due to noise, darkness, or vehicle size).
- Administrative Disputes: Fighting to retain driving rights if the case involves only property damage.
- Establishing Alibi: If the driver''s identity is unknown and only the license plate is identified, the defense works to prove who was actually driving.
Common Scenarios and Real-World Situations
Hit and run cases often unfold as follows:
The first scenario is "Parking." A driver clips a parked car and leaves, thinking the damage is negligible. Cameras record the event, and the driver loses their license.
The second scenario is "Invisible Contact." A bus or truck sideswipes a car. The driver continues. Later, they are stopped for fleeing. The defense uses expertise to prove the impact was not felt in the cabin.
The third case is "Hostile Environment." An aggressive crowd gathers after an accident. The driver leaves for safety and goes to the police. This is not considered fleeing if reported promptly.
Georgian Legal Framework
Regulations:
- Administrative Offences Code: Article 123 (Property damage). Penalty: Fine and license suspension.
- Criminal Code: Article 276 and 128 (If injury occurred). Penalty: Imprisonment.
Service Process Step-by-Step
- Consultation: Assessing if there are injuries.
- Police Visit: Surrendering with a lawyer.
- Video Evidence: Obtaining footage.
- Court: Administrative or criminal proceedings.
Why Use Legal.ge?
Leaving the scene is risky, but with proper legal response, severe consequences can be avoided. On Legal.ge, find lawyers who help fix this mistake.
Updated: ...