Kentucky Hit and Run Laws: Protect Your Rights

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but being accused of leaving the scene can lead to serious criminal charges. In Kentucky, a hit-and-run isn’t just a traffic violation—it’s a criminal offense that can carry jail time, steep fines, and long-term consequences.

If you are accused of fleeing an accident, Hoffman Walker & Knauf is here to help you navigate the law, safeguard your rights, and advocate for the best possible results. 

What Is Considered a Hit and Run in Kentucky?

Under Kentucky law, any driver involved in an accident is legally required to stop at or near the scene. Kentucky Revised Statutes § 189.580 outlines these obligations, which include:

• Stopping immediately after the accident.
• Rendering aid to any injured individuals.
• Providing your name, address, and vehicle registration number.
• Notifying law enforcement if the accident results in injury, death, or property damage over $500.

Failing to meet any of these obligations can result in a hit-and-run charge, even if you didn’t cause the accident.

Criminal Penalties for Leaving the Scene

Kentucky takes hit-and-run offenses seriously. The penalties vary depending on the accident’s severity and whether it involved injury, death, or only property damage.

• Property Damage Only: Leaving the scene of a crash with only property damage is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $500.
• Injury or Death: If the accident caused physical injury or death and the driver fled the scene, the offense becomes a Class D felony, which can lead to 1 to 5 years in prison and steeper fines.

In either case, your driver’s license may also be suspended or revoked, and the consequences can affect your insurance premiums, employment, and future driving privileges.

Common Defenses to Hit and Run Allegations

There are legitimate reasons why someone may leave the scene of an accident or be unaware that they were required to stop. Every case is different, but potential defenses can include:

• You were unaware that a collision occurred.
• You left to seek emergency medical attention.
• You were in fear for your safety or at risk of harm.
• You were not the driver of the vehicle at the time of the accident.
• Law enforcement made procedural errors during the investigation or arrest.

At Hoffman Walker & Knauf, we take the time to understand your unique circumstances and build a defense strategy tailored to your situation. Our goal is to reduce or dismiss your charges whenever possible or mitigate the consequences if a conviction cannot be avoided.

Why You Should Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

If you’ve been contacted by law enforcement or believe you may be under investigation for a hit-and-run, do not make any statements before speaking with an attorney. Even well-meaning comments can be used against you later.

Early legal representation allows us to:

• Intervene before formal charges are filed.
• Communicate with law enforcement on your behalf.
• Preserve evidence that supports your version of events.
• Begin negotiating with prosecutors right away.

The sooner you involve a defense lawyer, the more options you may have for resolving your case.

Protect Your Future with Hoffman Walker & Knauf

Facing a hit-and-run charge in Kentucky can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Hoffman Walker & Knauf, we know how to navigate the criminal justice system and provide strong, strategic defense at every stage of your case.

Our attorneys are committed to clear communication, honest advice, and tireless advocacy. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge, we’re here to fight for your rights and protect your future.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and find out how we can help.