January 29, 2018 Stopping after an accident is not optional. If you are ever involved in a car crash, you need to stop as soon as possible to exchange insurance information and render medical aid, if necessary. Failure to stop after a crash is considered a hit and run, which is a serious crime if you injured or killed someone. Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound is looking for the driver who recently hit and killed a man in Seattle. The fatal pedestrian accident happened after midnight on December 3. A 53-year-old mentally disabled man was attempting to cross Rainier Avenue South when he was hit by a maroon minivan. The impact threw the man’s body. The driver of the minivan did not stop to render aid. Instead, the driver of the minivan slowed down, drove around the body and took off. What was considered an accident is now a felony hit and run. This is the footage that was caught by security cameras outside Rainier Beach Medical and Dental Clinic. Police are hoping someone has information about the driver or vehicle, which likely has front end damage. If you have information about the crime, contact Crime Stoppers, which is offering a $1,000 cash reward. You can submit a tip at www.P3Tips.com or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Duty in an Accident Under Washington State Legislature RCW 46.52.020, after an accident occurs, a driver has the duty to stop the vehicle as close as possible to the accident scene and exchange personal information with the others involved. A driver should also render medical aid to injured victims. Rendering medical aid does not affect fault in a crash. If the driver fails to stop at the accident scene, this is considered hit and run. If the victim is injured or killed, the penalties can be severe. If a person is injured in a hit and run crash, the driver can face a Class C felony charge. The punishment may include $10,000 in fines and five years in prison. If a person is killed in a hit and run crash, the driver can face a Class B felony charge, which is punishable by a fine of up to $20,000 and 10 years in prison. Get Help for Your Criminal Case A hit and run accident can result in felony charges, which can affect a person’s criminal record and personal life in many ways. If you are facing such charges, seek legal help right away. The criminal defense lawyers at the Nahajski Firm can defend you against the criminal charges you face, no matter how severe they may seem. Our aggressive lawyers will work hard to protect your legal rights. Find out more by scheduling a free consultation. Contact the Nahajski Firm today at (206) 621-0500.