Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: Fiallo v. Bell
Hit and run: When someone is driving a car and they hit something or someone, they are supposed to stop and give their name and other information to the person they hit or to the police. But if they don't stop and just drive away, that's called a hit and run. It's against the law and can be very dangerous for the person or thing that was hit. Sometimes it's hard to figure out who did the hit and run, but it's important to try to find out so that the person responsible can be held accountable.
Definition: Hit and run is a crime where a driver of a vehicle is involved in a collision with another vehicle, property, or person, but knowingly fails to stop and provide their name, license number, and other required information to the injured party, a witness, or law enforcement officers.
For example, if a driver hits a parked car and drives away without leaving any information, it is considered a hit and run. Similarly, if a driver hits a pedestrian and leaves the scene without providing any information, it is also a hit and run.
Hit and run laws vary from state to state, but in general, it is a serious offense that can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. It is important for drivers to always stop and provide their information in the event of an accident, even if they believe they were not at fault.