In New York County, a hit and run accident charge under NY VTL § 600 carries potential jail time and license revocation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled thousands of traffic cases firm-wide. A Hit and Run Lawyer New York County can help protect your driving privileges and freedom.
What Is a Hit and Run Charge in New York County?
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600, leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage or personal injury is a criminal offense. The law requires all drivers involved in an accident to stop, exchange information, and render aid if necessary. A Hit and Run Lawyer New York County understands the specific elements the prosecution must prove. The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident involved property damage, personal injury, or death. A first-time property damage offense is a traffic infraction, while leaving the scene of an injury accident is a Class A misdemeanor. A fatality can elevate the charge to a Class D felony under VTL § 600(3).
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | NY Senate Legislation
Review the official statute: New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600 (official NY Senate). Court information is available at the New York County Supreme Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge for New York County Hit and Run Cases
In New York County, prosecutors often file hit and run charges aggressively, especially when injuries are alleged. The key is to act quickly before the DMV issues a suspension.
Your leaving the scene of an accident lawyer New York County will examine whether the prosecution can prove you knew an accident occurred. This is a critical element of the offense.
- Step 1: Do not speak to police or insurance adjusters without your lawyer present.
- Step 2: Preserve all evidence, including photos of your vehicle and the accident scene.
- Step 3: Contact a hit and run accident charge lawyer New York County immediately.
- Step 4: Your lawyer will file a notice of appearance at New York County Supreme Court.
- Step 5: Negotiate with the DA’s office for a reduction or dismissal.
- Step 6: Attend all court dates; failure to appear results in a bench warrant.
In New York County, a hit and run conviction carries penalties ranging from a traffic infraction to a felony depending on the severity of the accident.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving scene — property damage | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $250 | 3 points | Driver Responsibility Assessment |
| Leaving scene — personal injury | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Revocation | Criminal record |
| Leaving scene — death | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Revocation | Felony record |
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. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our firm understands how prosecutors build hit and run cases in New York County. Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in NY, NJ, VA, MD, and DC, giving him a broad perspective on traffic defense strategies.
Case Results
While no verifiable case result is available for this specific jurisdiction and 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.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near New York County
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts. We are accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines.
Searching for a Hit and Run Lawyer New York County near you? 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.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run in New York County
Can I go to jail for a hit and run in New York County?
Yes. Leaving the scene of an injury accident is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail.
If the accident involved death, the charge becomes a Class D felony with up to 7 years in prison. A Hit and Run Lawyer New York County can negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
Will I lose my license for a hit and run in New York County?
Yes. A hit and run conviction typically results in license revocation, especially if injury or death occurred.
The DMV may also impose a Driver Responsibility Assessment of $100-$250 per year for 3 years. Your leaving the scene of an accident lawyer New York County can request a DMV hearing to challenge the revocation.
What is the difference between a hit and run and leaving the scene?
They are the same offense under NY VTL § 600. “Hit and run” is the common term; “leaving the scene” is the legal term.
Both refer to failing to stop after an accident. The specific charge depends on whether the accident involved property damage, injury, or death.
Can a hit and run charge be reduced in New York County?
Yes. A skilled lawyer can negotiate with the DA to reduce a misdemeanor to a traffic infraction in some cases.
Factors include lack of prior record, minimal damage, and cooperation with police. A hit and run accident charge lawyer New York County can present mitigating evidence to the prosecutor.
How long do I have to report a hit and run in New York County?
You must report the accident immediately. Failure to do so can result in additional charges.
Under NY VTL § 600, you must stop at the scene and exchange information. If you leave, you face criminal charges regardless of when you later report it.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.
See our New York Traffic Lawyer hub for statewide information. Compare with Albany County Traffic Lawyer or Broome County Traffic Lawyer. For related services, see our DUI Lawyer New York County page.