If you’re involved in a car accident and leave the scene, you could be charged with a serious crime. But is hit and run a felony in Maryland? The answer depends on the circumstances of the accident—especially whether someone was injured or killed.
What Counts as a Hit and Run in Maryland?
Under Maryland Transportation Code § 20-102, a driver involved in an accident must stop immediately and remain at the scene to exchange information and render aid if necessary. Failing to do so is considered a hit and run, sometimes referred to as leaving the scene of an accident.
The law applies whether the crash involves another vehicle, a pedestrian, a cyclist, or even unattended property.
When Is Hit and Run a Felony in Maryland?
In Maryland, a hit and run can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the accident.
Felony Hit and Run Charges
A hit and run becomes a felony when:
- The accident results in serious bodily injury or death, and
- The driver knowingly leaves the scene without rendering aid or contacting authorities.
Felony hit and run is codified under Maryland Transportation Code § 27-113, which makes it a crime punishable by:
- Up to 5 years in prison for accidents involving serious injury
- Up to 10 years in prison for accidents resulting in death
- Fines up to $10,000
- 12 points added to your driver’s license, which can lead to suspension or revocation
These are serious consequences that reflect the state’s position on protecting accident victims and ensuring accountability on the road.
Misdemeanor Hit and Run
If no one is injured or killed, but a driver still fails to stop after a crash that causes property damage, the offense is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Penalties include:
- Up to 60 days in jail
- Fines up to $500
- Points on your driving record
This lower-level offense still carries significant consequences, especially if combined with other violations like DUI or driving on a suspended license.
Duty to Report an Accident
Maryland law also requires drivers to report an accident involving injury, death, or property damage. Failing to do so can be a separate charge, even if you eventually return to the scene. Reporting must be done to local law enforcement “as soon as possible.”
Common Scenarios That Lead to Felony Hit and Run Charges
Some examples of how a hit and run might rise to the level of a felony in Maryland include:
- Leaving the scene after hitting a pedestrian at night
- Fleeing after a crash on a highway that results in another driver’s death
- Causing a multi-vehicle pileup and disappearing before first responders arrive
In any of these cases, prosecutors may argue that the driver knew or should have known that serious injury or death occurred—and that failure to stay and help justifies felony charges.
What to Do If You’re Accused of Hit and Run
Whether you’re under investigation or already charged, talk to a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Hit and run cases often involve questions of intent, knowledge, and driver identification. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate whether you were actually driving
- Challenge assumptions about whether you knew an injury occurred
- Argue for reduced charges or diversion programs when appropriate
Call a Southern Maryland Criminal Lawyer Today
If you’re facing charges for hit and run, whether misdemeanor or felony, you need aggressive and informed representation. At Southern Maryland Criminal Defense, we help clients in Prince George’s County, Charles County, St. Mary’s County, and Calvert County navigate serious traffic-related charges that could impact their freedom and driving privileges.
Contact us today for a free consultation and get the defense you deserve.
