Leaving Accident Scene Consequences

Summary

Leaving the scene of an accident in Kansas can lead to serious legal consequences, including misdemeanor or felony charges, fines, and jail time. Even if no one else was involved, its required to report any accidents causing property damage. DUI charges usually require evidence of impairment at the time of driving, but leaving the scene can complicate matters. The vehicles owner, if not driving, typically isnt liable but may need to provide information. To retrieve a towed vehicle, contact the tow yard to check for any holds or charges.

Full Conversation

I drove my car into a ditch, I called * but before they arrived I just left the scene and went home. They ended up towing my car somewhere
Hello Dean, it appears you've left the scene of an accident. May I ask which state this occurred in? This is important as traffic laws can vary widely from state to state.
Kansas
In Kansas, leaving the scene of an accident can have serious consequences, including:
- Misdemeanor or felony charges
- Jail time
- Fines
- Points on your driving record
It's recommended to contact a local attorney for advice.
Even if no one else was involved and it was just my car?
Yes, Dean. In Kansas, it's required to report any accidents causing property damage. Even though no one else was involved, the ditch is considered public property. Not reporting could lead to legal consequences.
Could they get me for a dui
In Kansas, DUI charges usually require evidence of impairment at the time of driving. However, leaving the scene could potentially complicate matters. A local attorney would be best suited to advise you further.
Could they still charge me even if they never spoke to me because I left the scene?
Yes, Dean. In Kansas, leaving the scene of an accident can lead to charges, even if police didn't speak with you at the scene. It's crucial to consult a local attorney for further advice.
What if the car is in my parents name?
In Kansas, the vehicle's owner isn't typically liable for an accident unless they were driving. However, if legal action occurs, your parents might be involved since the car is in their name. Consult a local attorney for detailed advice.
How would they be involved?
Your parents may be involved in the capacity of vehicle owners. They may need to provide information or documentation about the vehicle. However, they wouldn't be liable for the accident unless they were driving. For specific implications, it's best to consult a local attorney.
If I tried to get my car from the tow yard woukd they let me take it since the police had it towed?
Dean, were you notified by the police or the tow yard about any charges or holds on the vehicle? Answer: This is important because in Kansas, if the police place a hold on your vehicle, you may need their permission to retrieve it.
No not yet, I just know it’s in a tow yard because my phone is in the vehicle so it’s tracking the cars location
Have you tried contacting the tow yard to inquire about retrieving your vehicle, Dean? They may be able to provide you with more information about any possible holds or charges.
No not yet, but would the tow yard contact the police once I try to pick it up
In Kansas, tow yards generally don't contact the police unless the vehicle is involved in an active investigation or has a hold on it. It's advisable to contact the tow yard to understand the process to retrieve your vehicle.
How do I know if there’s a hold on my vehicle
The best way to know if there's a hold on your vehicle in Kansas is to call the tow yard where your car is located. They should be able to tell you if there's a hold and why, along with any procedures for retrieving your vehicle.