Charges: Leaving the Scene of an Accident With Property Damage
A vehicle was heading eastbound approaching a traffic circle. As the vehicle entered the traffic circle it proceeded straight instead of following the flow of traffic around the circle, hitting a curb. An individual in the center of the circle had to run to avoid being struck by the vehicle. The vehicle continued across the sidewalk and eventually struck a tree, causing the vehicle to spin and strike a light pole, damaging the metal base of the pole. The vehicle then turned and damaged an in-ground irrigation system and struck a metal guard rail protecting the entrance to an apartment complex. The impact tore the guard rail from the foundation and stopped the vehicle. The vehicle’s driver side airbag deployed, and the front left wheel completely snapped off.
The driver immediately fled as soon as the vehicle stopped, but was caught by two witnesses and detained until Gainesville Police Department officers arrived. The driver was identified by the witness who was in the traffic circle, had keys in his pocket, and sustained minor facial injuries. The driver did not show any signs of impairment and was issued a criminal citation for leaving the scene of an accident with property damage.
The driver retained Meldon Law and we were able to negotiate an agreement with the State Attorney’s office. Upon showing proof that the driver had paid for the damage caused by the accident, the State agreed to drop all criminal charges in this case.
