Leaving the scene of an accident causing a death in Florida
In Florida, leaving the scene of an accident causing death is a serious criminal offense. The maximum sentence for this offense is a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. As discussed below, for a first offense with just with one death, there is a minimum mandatory four (4) year prison time and the Florida sentencing guidelines call for a minimum of over 10 years in imprisonment.
The actual sentence imposed on an individual found guilty of leaving the scene of an accident causing death will depend on various factors such as their criminal history, the specific circumstances surrounding the accident, and any mitigating or aggravating factors present in the case.
It’s important to note that Florida law requires drivers involved in accidents that result in injury or death to immediately stop at the scene and render aid if necessary. Failing to do so can result in serious legal consequences, including potential imprisonment, fines, and permanent damage to your driving record.
The minimum mandatory sentence for leaving the scene of an accident causing death in Florida is four years’ imprisonment. Florida law requires a mandatory minimum sentence for this offense, which means that a judge must impose at least the minimum sentence upon conviction.
Under Florida Statute 316.027, leaving the scene of an accident involving death is a first-degree felony offense punishable by up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. However, if a person leaves the scene of an accident involving death and fails to give information or render aid as required by law, then they will face a mandatory minimum sentence of four years’ imprisonment.
It’s important to note that in addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, individuals convicted of this offense may also face civil liability for damages caused by their actions in the accident, a no drive order, pending resolution of your case a license revocation upon conviction.
Guidelines on the Florida criminal punishment code
Under the Florida Criminal Punishment Code, leaving the scene of an accident causing death is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
The guidelines for this offense under the Florida Criminal Punishment Code are as follows:
1. Offense severity ranking: Level 8
2. Severity ranking offender: Primary offense
3. Criminal Punishment Code score sheet points: 112
4. Minimum sentence: 124 months (10 years and 4 months) in prison
5. Maximum sentence: 30 years in prison
Additionally, under the Florida Call Leo law, any person who is involved in an accident that results in injury or death must immediately stop their vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to it as possible and remain there until they have fulfilled their statutory duties. These duties include providing reasonable assistance to anyone injured in the accident and exchanging information with other drivers involved in the accident.
Failing to fulfill these duties can result in criminal charges for leaving the scene of an accident causing death, as well as civil liability for any damages or injuries caused by the driver’s failure to stop and provide assistance.
If you have been charged with leaving the scene of an accident causing death or any related traffic offenses, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel from an experienced legal defense team such as ALBERT, QUIRANTES, ESQ. CRIMINAL DUI & TICKET LAWYERS, who can help you understand your rights and options. A skilled attorney can also work to negotiate with prosecutors and potentially reduce your charges or penalties.