What penalties should I expect for leaving the scene of an accident?

Depending on the amount of damage and your state/local laws, you may have a legal obligation to report the crash. I suggest you contact a local traffic law attorney ASAP and find out what your options are. Good luck.

39:4-129(a) Leaving the scene of accident involving injury or death- First offense: Fine or 180 days imprisonment, or both, and suspension of driving privileges for 1 year from date of conviction $2500-$5000 Imprisonment shall be imposed only if injury to another person. 8 points. Subsequent offense: Fine or 180 days imprisonment from date of conviction, or both, and permanent forfeiture of driver's license $1000-$2000 Imprisonment shall be imposed only if injury to another person. 39:4-129(b) Leaving the scene of accident involving damages to attended vehicle or property- First offense: Fine or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days, or both, and suspension of driving privileges for six months from date of conviction $200-$400. Subsequent offense: Fine or imprisonment not less than 30 days nor more than 90 days, or both, and suspension of driving privileges for 1 year from date of conviction $400-$600 2 MVC/DMV points and 2 car insurance points. 39:4-129(d) Leaving the scene of accident involving damages to unattended vehicle or property- First offense: Fine or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days, or both, and suspension of driving privileges for six months from date of conviction. $200 $400 Subsequent offense: Fine or imprisonment not less than 30 days nor more than 90 days, or both, and suspension of driving privileges for 1 year from date of conviction. $400-$600 2 MVC/DMV points and 2 car insurance points

Listen to the advise of the two fine lawyers who previously answered this question. You should get an attorney and listen to their advise carefully. Good luck.

If no one was injured and the only damage was to unattended property, you may be charged with leaving the scene of accident involving damages to unattended vehicle or property- the penalties for a first offense are fine or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days, or both, and suspension of driving privileges for six months from date of conviction. The fine is between $200 $400. You may also be sued by the city or state for the damage to the sign. Practically, you should retain an attorney who frequents the court where you are charged. The attorney most likely will be able to get the charge reduced and save your license. Feel free to give me a call.

Since no personal injury was involved and what it sounds like minimal property damage, the likelihood is that you will receive a minimum fine and possibly no points. Of course, your past driving history is important as far as what the court will allow in terms of plea bargaining as to the charge and sentence. I would recommend that you obtain a lawyer to go with you to court. I am in the area and often go to court in the Trenton municipalities.

You face 6 month suspension. There is the possibility of a large helping of points and jail time. But that us unlikely based on the facts. If the police think you left because you were intoxicated then the chances of a plea bargain are greatly reduced. Consult an attorney as the outcome can be quite vexing.