Leaving the Scene of an Accident – How Nevada Law Treats Hit and Run Offenders

Recently, a tragic hit-and-run incident occurred in Lynnwood, Washington, involving 30-year-old Taylor Druliner. Druliner was struck and killed by a vehicle while crossing the street, leaving behind a grieving family and community. The Washington State Patrol and Crime Stoppers are actively seeking information, offering a $5,000 reward for leads that could help identify the driver responsible for this fatal collision. The suspect vehicle is believed to be a 2007-2011 Toyota Corolla, and investigators are utilizing various resources, including an IP address linked to the vehicle, to track down the culprit.

This case highlights the devastating consequences of hit-and-run accidents, not only for the victims and their families but also for the broader community. Leaving the scene of an accident is not just a moral failing—it is a serious crime that carries significant legal repercussions. While the laws governing such offenses vary by state, the fundamental principle remains consistent: drivers involved in an accident must stop, render aid, and report the incident to authorities.

Nevada’s Statute on Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death: NRS 484E.010

In Nevada, the legal consequences for leaving the scene of an accident that results in death are severe. Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 484E.010, any driver involved in a collision that results in injury or death must immediately stop their vehicle at the scene of the accident and remain there until they have fulfilled the requirements to provide information and render aid as necessary.

Failure to comply with these obligations can result in felony charges. Specifically, leaving the scene of an accident that results in death is classified as a Category B felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in state prison, and fines ranging from $2,000 to $5,000. Additionally, the offender’s driver’s license will be revoked, and they may face civil lawsuits from the victim’s family.

Comparison with Washington State Law

While both Nevada and Washington have stringent penalties for hit-and-run offenses, there are some differences in how the two states approach these crimes. In Washington, the penalties for leaving the scene of an accident vary based on the severity of the incident. A hit-and-run resulting in death is classified as a Class B felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.

One significant aspect of Washington’s approach, as seen in the Druliner case, is the active use of community resources, such as Crime Stoppers, and public appeals for information to locate hit-and-run drivers. Nevada authorities also employ these methods, but the emphasis remains on the legal consequences for the offender if caught and convicted.

The Legal Obligations of a Driver in Nevada After an Accident

Under NRS 484E.030, any driver involved in an accident in Nevada must do the following:

Stop at the Scene: The driver must immediately stop their vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close as possible without obstructing traffic.
Render Aid: The driver must provide reasonable assistance to any injured person, including arranging for medical treatment if necessary.
Provide Information: The driver must provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other party involved in the accident, as well as present their driver’s license if requested.
Report to Law Enforcement: If the accident results in injury or death, the driver must notify the police immediately.

Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to felony charges, especially if the accident results in serious bodily injury or death.

Defending Against Hit-and-Run Charges in Nevada

If someone is charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Nevada, the consequences are dire, and a robust defense strategy is crucial. Defenses may include:

Mistaken Identity: Proving that the defendant was not the driver involved in the accident.
Lack of Knowledge: Arguing that the driver was unaware that an accident occurred, which is sometimes possible in cases involving minor collisions.
Emergencies: Showing that the driver left the scene due to an immediate and unavoidable emergency, such as seeking medical help for themselves or another person.

It is essential to have a skilled defense attorney to navigate these complex legal issues and build a strong case.

The tragic incident in Lynnwood, Washington, and the strict legal framework in Nevada under NRS 484E.010 both serve as stark reminders of the severe consequences for leaving the scene of an accident. Anyone facing charges related to vehicular crimes in Nevada, including hit-and-run or DUI-related offenses, should seek immediate legal assistance.

Attorney Josh Tomsheck is a nationally certified criminal trial attorney and a member of the National College for DUI Defense. With extensive experience in defending vehicular and DUI-related cases, Josh has a proven track record of successfully navigating the complexities of Nevada’s legal system. If you or a loved one are facing such charges, contact Josh Tomsheck to ensure your rights are protected and to receive the best possible defense.