In New York County (Manhattan), leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense under NY VTL § 600. Penalties range from a traffic infraction to a Class E felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges. A Leaving the Scene Lawyer New York County can help protect your driving record and freedom.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | NY VTL § 600 (official New York State Senate)
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600 requires any driver involved in an accident to stop, provide identification, and render aid. Failing to do so is legally defined as leaving the scene. The severity of the charge depends on whether property damage, personal injury, or death occurred. A hit and run defense lawyer New York County understands these statutory distinctions and how they apply to your case.
Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. (established 1997), brings former prosecutor experience to every defense. His background provides insight into how the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office builds these cases, which directly benefits clients facing a fleeing accident scene charge lawyer New York County.
For the full text of the statute, see NY VTL § 600 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
In New York County, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office prosecutes leaving the scene cases aggressively, particularly when injuries are involved. The New York County Supreme Court (60 Centre Street) handles felony-level charges, while the Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) manages infractions. TVB hearings do not allow plea bargaining, making early legal strategy critical.
- Do not leave the scene — stop immediately and exchange information.
- Call 911 if anyone is injured and request medical assistance.
- Do not admit fault or make statements to police without counsel.
- Contact a Leaving the Scene Lawyer New York County before your court date.
- Gather evidence: photos, witness contact info, and dashcam footage.
- Appear at all scheduled court dates at New York County Supreme Court.
In New York County (Manhattan), leaving the scene of an accident carries penalties from a traffic infraction up to a Class E felony, depending on the severity of the incident.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving scene — property damage only | Traffic infraction | None | Up to $250 | 3 points on license | Driver Responsibility Assessment fee |
| Leaving scene — personal injury | Class A misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500 – $1,000 | Suspension possible | Civil liability for damages |
| Leaving scene — serious physical injury or death | Class E felony | Up to 4 years | $1,000 – $5,000 | Revocation | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across NY, VA, MD, NJ, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating his deep understanding of legal procedure and statutory interpretation.
No verifiable case result is available for this jurisdiction/topic. Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts. The New York County Supreme Court is accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We serve all Manhattan neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
Looking for a Leaving the Scene Lawyer New York County near you? We provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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Do I need a lawyer for a leaving the scene charge in New York County?
Yes. A leaving the scene charge can escalate from a traffic infraction to a felony. A Leaving the Scene Lawyer New York County can negotiate with the DA’s office and protect your rights.
What is the penalty for leaving the scene of an accident in New York County?
It depends on the severity. Property damage only is a traffic infraction with up to $250 fine. Personal injury is a Class A misdemeanor with up to 1 year jail. Death is a Class E felony with up to 4 years prison.
Can I get my license suspended for leaving the scene in Manhattan?
Yes. The DMV can suspend your license for leaving the scene, especially if injuries are involved. A hit and run defense lawyer New York County can request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension.
How long do I have to report an accident in New York County?
You must stop immediately at the scene. If you cannot stop, you must return to the scene as soon as possible. Failure to do so can result in additional charges under NY VTL § 600.
What should I do if I am accused of leaving the scene in New York County?
Do not speak to police without a lawyer. Contact a fleeing accident scene charge lawyer New York County immediately. Preserve any evidence including dashcam footage and witness contact information.