Key Takeaways
- Leaving the scene of an accident in Georgia—also called hit-and-run—can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the crash.
- If the accident only involves property damage, it’s typically a misdemeanor.
- If someone is injured or killed, fleeing the scene can lead to felony charges and years in prison.
What is considered a hit-and-run under Georgia law?
Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270, drivers in Georgia must stop and remain at the scene of any crash that results in:
- Injury
- Death
- Or property damage
They are required to:
- Give their name, address, and vehicle info
- Show a driver’s license
- Provide reasonable aid to anyone injured (e.g., call 911)
Failing to do any of these is considered a hit-and-run offense.
When is a hit-and-run a misdemeanor in Georgia?
A hit-and-run is usually charged as a misdemeanor when:
- The accident only caused property damage (e.g., dented bumper, scraped car)
- No one was injured or killed
- The driver fails to stop, exchange info, or report the crash
Even for a misdemeanor, penalties are serious and may include jail time, fines, and a license suspension.
When is a hit-and-run a felony in Georgia?
A hit-and-run becomes a felony if:
- Someone was seriously injured or killed
- You knew (or reasonably should have known) that someone was hurt
- You failed to stay and provide aid or wait for authorities
In these cases, prosecutors may charge felony hit-and-run, which carries harsher penalties than misdemeanors and can follow you for life.
What are the penalties for hit-and-run charges in Georgia?
| Charge Type | Classification | Max Penalty |
| Property damage only | Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months in jail, $1,000 fine |
| Injury or death | Felony | 1 to 5 years in prison, felony record |
Additionally, hit-and-run convictions may result in:
- License suspension or revocation
- Higher insurance rates
- Problems with employment, especially for CDL holders or rideshare drivers
Repeat offenses or aggravating factors (e.g., DUI, fleeing police) may increase penalties further.
Can I be arrested later if I left the scene but came back?
Yes. Leaving the scene—even briefly—can still result in charges. Coming back may help mitigate the situation, but it doesn’t erase the initial violation.
If you’re being investigated or were involved in a crash and panicked, call an attorney immediately before speaking to police. A criminal defense lawyer can:
- Advise you on your rights
- Communicate with law enforcement
- Help negotiate a favorable resolution
- Work to reduce charges or seek diversion programs
Georgia Hit-and-Run Charges FAQ
Is it still hit-and-run if I hit a parked car and left a note?
No—leaving a note with contact info may satisfy your legal obligation if no one was hurt. But failure to do so is still a misdemeanor.
Can I be charged even if I didn’t cause the accident?
Yes. If you were involved in the crash, you must stop—even if it wasn’t your fault.
What if I didn’t know someone was injured?
You can still be charged if a reasonable person would have known. This is why seeking legal help is essential.
Will I lose my driver’s license?
Possibly. A hit-and-run conviction can lead to license suspension, especially for felonies.
Can a hit-and-run charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. With a skilled lawyer, you may qualify for plea reduction, diversion, or even dismissal, depending on the facts.
Charged with Hit-and-Run in Georgia? Call Hines Law Now.
Hit-and-run charges can wreck your record and your reputation. Whether you’re accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, get legal help fast.
Call 404-226-4236 for a free consultation with a Georgia criminal defense attorney. We represent clients in Cobb, Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Clayton, and Hall Counties.