A hit and run charge in Erie County, NY carries serious penalties under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law, including potential jail time and license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Contact a Hit and Run Lawyer Erie County today for a consultation by appointment.
What Is a Hit and Run Charge in Erie County?
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense. The law requires any driver involved in an accident to stop, provide their information, and render aid if necessary. A Hit and Run Lawyer Erie County can explain how this statute applies to your specific situation. The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident involved property damage, personal injury, or death.
Last verified: April 2026 | Erie County Supreme Court | NY VTL § 600 (official New York State Senate)
Specific Statute for Leaving the Scene of an Accident
For hit and run cases in Erie County, the controlling statute is NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600. This section specifically addresses leaving the scene of an incident without reporting. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Erie County uses this statute to build a defense, focusing on whether the driver knew an accident occurred or had a valid reason to leave.
For more details, review the NY VTL § 600 (official New York State Senate) and the Erie County Supreme Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge for Erie County Hit and Run Cases
In Erie County, prosecutors often file hit and run charges under VTL § 600. The court process can move quickly. You need a Hit and Run Lawyer Erie County who knows local procedures.
- Contact a lawyer immediately after the accident.
- Do not speak to police without your attorney present.
- Gather all evidence, including photos and witness contacts.
- File any required reports with the DMV within 10 days.
- Attend all court hearings at Erie County Supreme Court.
- Follow your lawyer’s advice on plea or trial strategy.
In Erie County, a hit and run charge carries penalties ranging from fines to jail time, depending on the severity of the accident.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving scene of property damage accident | Traffic infraction | Up to 15 days | Up to $250 | Points on license | Driver Responsibility Assessment |
| Leaving scene of personal injury accident | Class A misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | License suspension | Criminal record |
| Leaving scene of fatal accident | Class E felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | License revocation | Felony record, possible jail |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Hit and Run Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a commitment to legal reform. Our Hit and Run Lawyer Erie County team uses this experience to build strong defenses.
Case Results
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented 4,739+ case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific Erie County hit and run results are not available, our firm-wide record demonstrates consistent success in traffic and criminal defense matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Erie County Location
Our New York location serves clients at Erie County courts, accessible via I-90 (NYS Thruway), I-81, and I-390. We serve Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Amherst, Tonawanda, Hamburg, Orchard Park, Clarence, Lancaster, West Seneca, Lackawanna, East Aurora, Kenmore, Williamsville, and Depew.
Looking for a hit and run accident charge lawyer Erie County near you? We are near Erie County Supreme Court.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run Charges in Erie County
Can I get a hit and run charge dismissed in Erie County?
Yes, dismissal is possible if the prosecution cannot prove you knew an accident occurred. A Hit and Run Lawyer Erie County can argue lack of knowledge or mistaken identity. Early legal intervention is key.
What is the penalty for leaving the scene of an accident in Erie County?
It depends on the severity. Property damage: up to 15 days jail and $250 fine. Personal injury: up to 1 year jail and $1,000 fine. Fatal accident: up to 4 years prison and $5,000 fine. License suspension or revocation is common.
Do I need a lawyer for a hit and run charge in Erie County?
Yes, a hit and run charge is serious and can lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Erie County can protect your rights and negotiate with prosecutors.
How long does a hit and run case take in Erie County?
It depends on the complexity. Misdemeanor cases: 2-4 months. Felony cases: 6-12 months or longer. Your Hit and Run Lawyer Erie County can give you a timeline based on your specific charges.
Will I lose my license for a hit and run in Erie County?
Yes, license suspension is common. For property damage: points on your license. For injury or death: mandatory suspension or revocation. A lawyer can fight to minimize the impact on your driving privileges.
Can I get a hit and run charge reduced in Erie County?
Yes, reduction is possible. A felony hit and run may be reduced to a misdemeanor, or a misdemeanor to a violation. An experienced hit and run accident charge lawyer Erie County can negotiate with the district attorney for a plea deal.
Related Practice Areas in Erie County
For other legal needs in Erie County, see our Erie County Business Lawyer, Erie County Civil Litigation Lawyer, Erie County Contract Lawyer, and Erie County DUI Lawyer pages.
Also serving nearby areas: Albany County Traffic Lawyer, Broome County Traffic Lawyer, Cattaraugus County Traffic Lawyer, and Cayuga County Traffic Lawyer.
Return to the New York Traffic Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-20. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.