If you’re in a car accident, it’s very important that you do not leave the scene. This is especially true if you think that you may be charged with an Indiana DUI. If you hit something with your vehicle and don’t stick around, this can compound your troubles. It can also lead to additional criminal charges.
After a Car Crash
Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense. Under Indiana law, the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident must immediately stop their motor vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to the accident as possible in a manner that does not obstruct traffic more than is necessary.
The driver is also obligated to remain at the scene until they have provided their name, address, vehicle registration number, and driver’s license to anyone else involved in the collision.
When Someone Is Injured
If the accident results in injury or death, the driver has a responsibility to provide reasonable assistance to each person injured in or entrapped by the accident, as directed by a law enforcement officer, medical personnel, or a 911 telephone operator.
As soon as possible after the accident, the driver must immediately give notice of the accident—or ensure that another person gives notice of the accident—by the quickest means of communication to:
- the local police department, if the accident occurs within a municipality;
- the office of the county sheriff or the nearest police post, if the accident occurs outside a municipality; or
- a 911 telephone operator.
Click here to read more about why you don’t want to leave the scene of an accident.