A tragedy happened in the early hours of April 24, 2023, when the driver of a blue Dodge Charger with black racing stripes fatally struck a pedestrian lying on the road in Las Vegas. The driver fled the scene without stopping.
The deadly collision in the 3100 block of South Maryland Parkway occurred shortly before 3:45 a.m.
Thanks to both physical evidence and video footage, the Las Vegas Metro Police Department later identified and apprehended the driver. The victim – identified as Justin Pakele – was transported promptly to nearby Sunrise Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Pakele’s untimely death marks the 39th traffic fatality in Vegas so far this year— a grim reminder of the losses that traffic collisions too often lead to.
Are There Criminal Penalties for Fleeing the Scene of an Accident?
In Nevada, fleeing the scene of an accident involving death or substantial bodily harm is a felony. Nevada law states that the driver of any vehicle in an accident resulting in injury or death must immediately stop and stay at the scene. They must also provide assistance and exchange information as necessary.
Penalties for violating this law can include:
- 2 to 20 years in prison
- $2,000 to $5,000 in fines
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
- Restitution to the victim
- Parole or probation with certain conditions
What to Do After a Car Accident In Nevada
There are a few steps you must take after a car crash to follow Nevada law and protect your rights:
- Do not leave the scene – You must stay at the scene after an accident that causes death, injury, or property damage. However, you should pull over somewhere safe where you aren’t blocking traffic.
- Provide help – You are also required to provide reasonable assistance to anyone hurt in the collision. This may involve checking on them and calling emergency services.
- Exchange information – Another step required by law is exchanging information such as names, addresses, insurance information, and driver’s license information.
- Don’t admit fault – Even if you were to blame for the accident, you should not apologize or discuss who was responsible.
Contact a Nevada Hit-and-Run Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested for a Nevada hit-and-run accident, the experienced team at Adras & Altig, Attorneys at Law can build a strong legal defense against your charges. Our understanding and dedicated team is ready to work tirelessly to protect your rights. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to learn what we can do for you.
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At Adras & Altig, we believe that every client we work with deserves a fresh start. Our dedicated Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys take the time to get to know you so we can understand the circumstances surrounding your arrest.