Driving a car is a big responsibility in Oregon. If people do not take the job seriously, they could cause a car accident. However, beyond an accident, people can also face criminal charges for a variety of car-related violations. These go beyond a simple traffic ticket for breaking traffic laws. Instead, these charges can include felony charges for hit-and-run with injuries, reckless driving, driving without a license, drunk driving and others. In some cases, there are ways to avoid serious charges following a traffic issue.
This blog has already discussed how drivers can avoid certain criminal penalties by stopping following an accident. Under Oregon law, drivers have the duty to stop and wait for police following an accident if another person has been injured. However, this is not the only legal requirement that Oregon drivers have.
According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, drivers also have a duty to report certain traffic accidents to police. If people fail to report these accidents they can face criminal charges. The DMV states that people must report accidents in a variety of cases. One, if the accident caused $1,500 or more in damage to someone's personal property -- not including the car -- then the accident must be reported. Two, the accident must be reported if it caused more than $1,500 damage to any of the cars involved in the accident. Three, if anyone is seriously injured or killed in the accident then it must be reported. An accident must also be reported if it happens on public property.
If a person is unable to report the accident when it occurs, the person may still be responsible for reporting the accident to police or to the DMV at a later time.
If a person causes a serious car accident and is facing criminal charges, the accused may want to seek legal assistance. With the help of an attorney, people can fight felony charges and move past the mistake they made while behind the wheel.
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