Pinellas County Hit and Run Charges Carry Heavy Penalties, Regardless of Why You Fled The Scene
Pinellas County car accidents are stressful enough. Leaving the scene makes it that much worse. Florida law is strict about what drivers must do in the event of a crash. Failing to stop can result in serious criminal charges, even if the accident seems minor.
Drivers in this situation often say they never intended to break the law. Our Clearwater criminal defense attorney explains more about these charges, potential penalties, and how to protect your rights.
What Counts as a Hit and Run Under Florida Law
Under Section 316.061 of the Florida Statutes, drivers involved in any crash or collision that causes property damage or personal injuries must stop and remain at the scene. Not doing so could result in serious criminal penalties.
In some cases, hit-and-run drivers flee to avoid financial responsibility or due to outstanding warrants and fear of being apprehended by the police. In others, drivers were scared or confused, and never intended to harm anyone. Common scenarios include:
- Leaving the scene of what you consider a minor fender bender.
- Fleeing because the other driver seemed aggressive.
- Not realizing that contact with another vehicle actually caused damage or injuries.
- Accidentally striking a parked car and assuming no one saw it.
Regardless of the reasons, prosecutors treat Pinellas County hit-and-run charges seriously. To avoid potentially harsh penalties and protect your legal rights, get professional legal help as soon as possible.
Potential Penalties For Hit-and-Run In Pinellas County
Hit-and-run crashes in Pinellas County pose hazards to other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Two recent cases highlight the potential risks.
In late October 2025, Fox 13 News reported that a driver faces charges for leaving the scene of a Hudson crash that left two teenagers with severe injuries. Just weeks later, an 85-year-old St. Pete man was responsible for a fatal hit-and-run pedestrian accident in a Publix parking lot. According to a November 10, 2025, WFLA report, the man claimed he knew he had hit ‘something,’ but drove home without stopping to check what.
Regardless of the reasons, hit‑and‑run charges in Florida carry severe penalties. Possible outcomes include:
- Hit and run crashes resulting in property damage alone: Second‑degree misdemeanor charges, driver’s license suspension, and potential jail time.
- Hit-and-runs resulting in injuries: Third‑degree felony charges, up to 5 years in prison, and mandatory license revocation.
- Fatal hit and run accidents: First‑degree felony charges, up to 30 years in prison, and maximum minimum sentencing.
Beyond criminal penalties, you can also be held personally liable for damages suffered by victims and their families.
Accused of Hit-and-Run? Contact Our Pinellas County Criminal Defense Attorney Right Away
Leaving the scene of any crash in Pinellas County can result in serious criminal charges. At The Reep Law Firm, we provide the comprehensive client service and fierce legal representation you need to protect your rights.
If you are accused of a hit-and-run in Pinellas County, contact our office right away. To reduce the risk of a conviction, request a consultation with our experienced Clearwater criminal defense attorney today.
Sources:
flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2024/316.061
fox13news.com/news/woman-accused-severely-injuring-2-teens-hudson-hit-and-run-crash-bonds-out-jail
wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/st-pete-man-accused-of-fatal-hit-and-run-admitted-knowing-he-ran-something-over-before-driving-home-affidavit/
