The consequences if you are involved in a hit and run in Maine can be very serious depending on the circumstances.
If you are accused of hitting a car, either parked or with a passenger, and then fleeing the scene, it is considered a Class E crime.
If there is a serious injury or death involved it will usually be charged as a Class D crime and if you are believed to have caused the accident intentionally or because you were driving recklessly, it may be charged as a Class C crime.
Hit and run charges can occur after any type of accident, but they are especially serious when you are accused of OUI. Causing an accident because you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a Class C crime.
The following are the penalties for leaving the scene of accident offenses:
- Class E: Maximum of 6 months of jail time Maximum of $1,000 in fines
- Class D: Maximum of 12 months of jail time Maximum of $2,000 in fines 90 days of license suspension
- Class C: Maximum of 5 years of jail time Maximum of $5,000 in fines 90 days of license suspension
Keep in mind, these penalties are only minimum requirements.
If you’ve been found guilty of leaving the scene of the hit and run AND also have a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or greater, you can be charged with OUI / DUI and a Hit and Run.
OUI related hit and run offenses can lead to 4 years of license suspension.
