When you are driving and get into a car accident, certain criminal law situations can make the accident a crime. In Memphis, there are specific laws that dictate when an accident becomes a crime. If you are involved in an accident, it is important to know what to do to avoid any criminal charges. We will provide more information on how car accidents can become crimes, we will also discuss some of these situations and what you can do to protect yourself if you find yourself in one.
What Is Criminal Law
Criminal law is the area of law that deals with crimes. Crimes are typically defined as acts that are punishable by jail time or other penalties. There are different types of crimes, ranging from minor offenses such as speeding to major offenses such as murder.
What To Do After A Car Accident
After a car accident, it is important to take certain steps to protect your interests. First, you should call the police and file a report. This will create an official record of the accident, which can be useful if there is any dispute about who was at fault.
Then you should exchange insurance information with the other driver. This will ensure that you have the necessary information to file a car crash personal injury claim. The next step is you should take photos of the damage to both vehicles. These photos can be used as evidence if there is a disagreement about the extent of the damage.
Finally, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you do not think that you were injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that you are fairly compensated for any damages that you have suffered.
What Constitutes A Crime Based On A Car Accident In Memphis
In Memphis, a car accident is only considered a crime if there is evidence of malicious intent or negligence. For example, if a driver hits another car and then drives away, this would be considered a hit-and-run and would be prosecuted as a felony. If a driver is found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of an accident, this would also be considered a crime.
In addition, any accidents that result in death or serious injury are typically investigated as potential crimes. If you are involved in a car accident in Memphis, it is important to contact the police and cooperate with their investigation. By doing so, you can help ensure that any potential crimes are properly documented and prosecuted.
5 Scenarios That Make A Car Accident A Crime
A car accident is typically considered a civil matter. There are certain situations in which a car accident can become a criminal matter. Here are 5 scenarios that can result in criminal charges after a car accident.
Driving Under The Influence
Driving under the influence is one of the most common scenarios that can turn a car accident into a criminal offense. Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs impairs your judgment, reaction time, and motor skills, making it more likely that you'll cause an accident. If someone is injured or killed as a result of your intoxication, you could be facing serious charges, including vehicular homicide.
Hit-And-Run
When a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing their insurance information or rendering aid to any injured parties, they can be charged with a felony. Hit-and-runs are taken very seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors because they demonstrate a wanton disregard for the safety of others.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving includes any dangerous behavior on the road, such as speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, or running red lights. If you cause an accident while driving recklessly, you can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the accident.
Vehicular Manslaughter
Vehicular manslaughter is perhaps the most well-known scenario in which a car accident can become criminal. Vehicular manslaughter, also known as vehicular homicide, is a criminal offense that occurs when a driver's negligence or illegal actions cause the death of another person. In some cases, such as hit-and-run accidents or drunk driving accidents, the driver may be charged with a felony.
Fleeing the Police
If you are involved in an accident, regardless of who is at fault, you are required by law to stop and exchange information with the other driver. If you fail to do so and flee the scene of the accident, you can be charged with a felony.
What To Do If You're Accused Of A Crime Following A Car Accident
If you are accused of a crime following a car accident, there are a few things you should do.
Remain Calm And Collected
It is important to be respectful and cooperative with law enforcement, but you should also exercise your right to remain silent until you have an attorney present.
Gather As Much Evidence As Possible
This includes any photos or videos taken at the scene of the accident, witness statements, and your insurance information.
Contact An Experienced Attorney
An experienced attorney will be able to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Be Prepared For Trial
This means gathering any additional evidence that may be helpful, such as expert witnesses or character witnesses, and being familiar with the prosecutor's case against you.
Keep A Positive Attitude
A positive attitude can go a long way in helping you through this difficult time. Remember that you are innocent until proven guilty and that the burden of proof is on the prosecution.
Why Is It Important To Hire A Car Accident Injury Attorney
Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience. If you were charged with a crime as a result of the accident, it is even more stressful. Here are some benefits of hiring an attorney if you were charged with a crime in the accident.
1. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and what to expect in court.
2. An attorney can investigate the accident to look for evidence that will help your case.
3. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to try to get the charges against you reduced or dropped.
4. An attorney can represent you in court and fight for a not guilty verdict.
5. If you are found guilty, An attorney can help you appeal the decision or sentence.
If you were charged with a crime in Memphis as a result of a car accident, hiring a car accident lawyer like the ones at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is the best way to ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of getting a favorable outcome in your case.
Tips For Finding The Best Car Accident Injury Attorney In Memphis
With so many attorneys to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are four tips to help you find the best car accident injury attorney in Memphis.
1. Get recommendations from friends or family members who have previously used an attorney for their car accident cases.
2. Research each potential attorney online and read reviews from previous clients.
3. Schedule a consultation with each attorney to get a better sense of their personality and how they would handle your case.
4. Ask each attorney about their experience specifically with car accident cases, as well as their success rate in court.
By following these tips, you will be able to find the best Memphis car accident injury attorney for your specific case and needs.
Contact A Car Accident Injury Attorney In Memphis
Car accidents are always unexpected. You can never prepare yourself enough for one to happen. If you have been in a car accident and are being accused of a crime, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can investigate the accident to look for evidence that will help your case.
The attorneys at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys are here to help you navigate these difficult waters and will work tirelessly to get the best outcome for your case. Memphis car accident injury attorneys at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys focus on assessing fault, collecting evidence, negotiating, and getting you compensation. Contact them today for a consultation.
