Facing a hit and run or failure to stop charge in Edmonton can have serious legal and personal consequences. If you’ve been charged with this type of criminal offence, get legal help to understand the potential penalties and how to defend your rights.
Geoff Green, an experienced criminal lawyer in Edmonton, has over 25 years of experience in criminal defence and is ready to help you navigate the legal system with a failure to stop charge. With a strong history in defending criminal driving offences, Geoff is well-equipped to offer legal advice and representation in these complex cases.
What is a Hit and Run or Failure to Stop Offence?
A hit and run or failure to stop occurs when a driver is involved in a traffic collision and leaves the scene without providing his personal information and offering assistance to those who may have been harmed.
Failing to stop after a vehicle accident is a serious offence under the Criminal Code of Canada.
Hit-and-run charges can arise in various situations, such as:
- Collisions with another vehicle.
- Accidents involving a pedestrian.
- Collisions causing property damage without stopping to exchange information.
In these cases, the driver has a legal duty to stop, exchange information, and assist anyone injured. Failing to do so can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment, license suspension, and a criminal record.
Have you been charged with Failure to Stop / Hit-and-Run in Edmonton?
It’s essential to act quickly and secure legal representation.
Get a Free ConsultationLegal Consequences of Hit and Run Offences in Edmonton
If you’re convicted of a hit-and-run offence in Edmonton, you may face serious penalties affecting your personal and professional life.
The penalties for this criminal charge depend on several factors, such as the severity of the accident, the extent of damages or injuries, and whether the offence was intentional.
For a typical hit and run offence involving property damage, penalties may include:
| Penalty | Details |
| Fines | Ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars |
| Demerit Points | Added to your driving record |
| License Suspension | Temporary loss of driving privileges |
In cases where the hit and run involves injury or death, the penalties can be much more severe:
| Penalty | Details |
| Imprisonment (Injury) | Up to 10 years |
| Imprisonment (Fatal Accidents) | Life imprisonment |
| Permanent Criminal Record | Affects future employment, insurance rates, and travel opportunities |
Act quickly and contact Geoff Green, an experienced criminal defence lawyer in Edmonton. It is important to understand your options and build a strong defence. Geoff can help.
Failure to Stop for Police
Failing to stop for police in Edmonton is another serious offence under the s.320.17 of the Criminal Code.
This charge can occur if a driver is signalled to stop by a police officer but continues driving, evades arrest, or refuses to comply with police orders. This offence, also known as fleeing or flight from police, is treated as a form of dangerous driving.
The penalties for failing to stop for police include:
- Fines.
- Imprisonment of up to ten years.
- License suspension.
- A permanent criminal record.
Geoff Green has extensive experience defending clients against these charges and can provide the legal support you need if you face this type of criminal driving charge.
Defending Against Hit and Run & Failure to Stop Charges
When facing hit and run or failure to stop charges, you need an experienced criminal defence lawyer who can carefully review the evidence and help you build a solid defence.
Geoff Green’s experience in defending criminal driving offences allows him to identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop a tailored strategy to fight your charges.
Key elements that Geoff may explore in your defence include:
- Mistaken identity: The driver’s identity could have been confused with another driver.
- Lack of knowledge: A driver may not have realized they were involved in an accident, especially in cases of minor collisions. However, even being reckless without actual knowledge may be enough to convict.
- Emergency circumstances: There may be legitimate reasons why a driver failed to stop, such as medical emergencies or fear for their safety.
By working closely with Geoff, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you are positioned to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Impact on Your Driving Record and Insurance
In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction for hit and run or failure to stop can have lasting effects on your driving record and vehicle insurance. Convictions for these offences often result in demerit points, which can lead to higher insurance premiums and potential cancellation of your policy. You may also face a driving prohibition or license suspension for a set period.
The impact on your driving record can also extend beyond insurance, affecting your ability to operate a vehicle for work, especially if you rely on driving for employment purposes. An experienced lawyer like Geoff Green can help you understand these risks and work towards mitigating them.
Have you been charged with Failure to Stop / Hit-and-Run in Edmonton?
It’s essential to act quickly and secure legal representation.
Get a Free ConsultationHelp for Victims of Hit and Run Accidents in Edmonton
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Edmonton, it’s important to know that you have legal options.
Geoff Green can also assist victims in pursuing legal claims for compensation. A personal injury lawyer can help victims recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Geoff works closely with victims to ensure that they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Victims may also be entitled to make a claim through Alberta’s Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program, which provides compensation when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance.
Why Choose Geoff Green for Your Hit-and-Run Defence?
When facing a criminal driving offence like hit and run or failing to stop for police, you need an experienced lawyer who understands the nuances of criminal law in Alberta.
Geoff Green has a deep understanding of the legal system and the specific challenges of defending clients in these cases. With over 25 years of experience practicing criminal law in Alberta, Geoff brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in the courtroom.
Some reasons to choose Geoff for your defence include:
- A free consultation to discuss the details of your case.
- A personalized defence strategy based on the unique facts of your situation.
- Clear communication and guidance throughout the legal process.
- Dedicated representation in front of the various Courts in Alberta.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hit and Run & Failure to Stop Charges in Edmonton
What are the legal consequences of a hit-and-run charge in Edmonton?
A hit and run, or failure to stop at the scene of an accident, is a serious criminal offence in Edmonton. Consequences can include heavy fines, licence suspension, and even jail time, especially if someone was injured or killed. Additionally, you could face civil liability for any damages or personal injury claims.
Can you be charged with a hit-and-run if no one was injured?
Yes, even if no one was injured, leaving the scene of an accident without providing your information can lead to criminal charges. In Alberta, drivers involved in an accident are legally required to stop and exchange details. Failing to do so, even in minor collisions, can result in charges.
How does the Edmonton Police Service investigate hit-and-run incidents?
The Edmonton Police Service investigates hit-and-run incidents by collecting witness statements, reviewing any available video footage, and examining the scene of the accident. If the vehicle can be identified, they will track down the registered owner and may issue a warrant if the driver does not come forward.
What should I do if I am facing hit-and-run charges in Alberta?
If you are facing hit-and-run charges in Alberta, speak with a criminal defence lawyer as soon as possible. A defence lawyer can help you navigate the criminal justice system, challenge the evidence against you, and work to mitigate the legal consequences you may face.
Can a hit-and-run charge result in a criminal record?
Yes, a conviction for a hit-and-run in Edmonton will result in a criminal record. This can have long-lasting effects on your employment, ability to travel, and insurance rates. Consulting a criminal defence lawyer early is essential to potentially avoid or reduce these consequences.
Call Geoff Green Today and Get a Free Consultation
If you are facing hit-and-run or failure-to-stop charges in Edmonton, it’s critical to act quickly.
Geoff Green provides a free initial consultation to discuss your case. During this consultation, Geoff will review the details of your charges, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
With a strong background in criminal defence and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for his clients, Geoff is the right lawyer to help you defend your rights. Contact Geoff today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step in protecting your future.