When people are stopped by police or are involved in an accident, they may not know exactly how to respond. These can be intimidating situations that can lead to misdemeanors or other, more serious charges. However, it is important to remember that your conduct during a traffic stop or arrest can affect your criminal record even if you don't think you've done anything wrong. Depending on how you respond, you may face additional charges.
For example, two women were arrested by Oregon State Police troopers and charged with misdemeanor hit-and-run charges after they allegedly left the scene of an accident. In addition to this charge, the women were charged with felony attempt to elude in a vehicle, driving under the influence of intoxicants and criminal mischief.
According to police, these charges resulted from a traffic violation. Police claim that they tried to pull over a car on Interstate 5 in northeast Salem. However, the driver would not pull over. Instead, police allege, the driver sped up and tried to elude the police. During the chase the driver reached speeds up to 80 mph, police said.
As the chase continued the car got into an accident. The accident included two other cars, though no injuries were reported. Instead of stopping at the accident -- which is required by law -- the woman driving the car continued on, police said. After the car finally came to a stop a short time later, the woman and her female passenger were arrested.
Had the women pulled over after the initial traffic violation, they might have avoided many of the penalties they now face. While interactions with police can be difficult, it often pays for people to cooperate. However, people should be aware of their right to remain silent and their right to an attorney.
Source: KPTV, "Two women arrested in Salem hit-and-run case," Nov. 27, 2012
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