Hit And Run Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
A hit and run in New York County (Manhattan) is a serious offense under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600, carrying penalties from traffic infractions to felony charges. If you are facing a hit and run charge, you need a lawyer who understands the specific procedures of the New York County Supreme Court and the Traffic Violations Bureau.
New York Hit and Run Law
In New York, leaving the scene of an accident is governed by Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) Article 600. The law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in property damage, injury, or death to stop, provide their information, and render reasonable aid. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident. A hit and run involving only property damage is typically a traffic infraction. If the accident causes personal injury, it becomes a misdemeanor. A hit and run resulting in a death is a Class D felony. The specific statute is NY VTL § 600.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law, Article 600. For court procedures and information, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Hit and Run Case in Manhattan
The process for a hit and run case depends on where the ticket or summons was issued. In the five boroughs of New York City, including Manhattan, most moving violations are handled by the state’s Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB). A critical fact is that the TVB does not allow plea bargaining—you either fight the charge at a hearing or accept the consequences. For more serious charges classified as misdemeanors or felonies, your case will be heard in New York County Supreme Court or another local criminal court, where different rules apply.
- Determine the court jurisdiction (TVB or criminal court) from your ticket or summons.
- Gather all evidence, including any witness statements, photos, or repair estimates.
- Consult with a hit and run attorney to review the charges and evidence against you.
- Prepare for and attend your scheduled hearing or arraignment.
- Present your defense, which may involve challenging the identification of your vehicle or your knowledge of the accident.
- Address any resulting penalties, such as DMV points, fines, or license actions.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run
In New York County (Manhattan), a hit and run conviction carries a range of penalties from fines and points to potential jail time, depending on the severity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $250 | 3 DMV Points | Driver Responsibility Assessment, possible insurance increase |
| Hit & Run (Personal Injury) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Mandatory Revocation | Criminal record, possible victim restitution |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory Revocation | Felony record, significant victim restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With a combined attorney experience of over 120 years, our firm has handled thousands of traffic cases. Our approach is grounded in a detailed review of the evidence and the specific procedures of the court handling your case. We focus on building a defense that addresses the core elements the prosecution must prove.
Discuss Your Hit and Run Case
If you have been charged with leaving the scene of an accident, the specific details of your case and where it is filed will determine the best strategy. A hit and run lawyer from our firm can review the charges, the evidence, and the procedures of the TVB or local court to advise you on your options.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Hit And Run Law Firm New York
Our New York location serves clients at courts throughout New York County (Manhattan), accessible via all subway lines, the FDR Drive, and West Side Highway. We represent individuals in neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a hit and run a felony in New York?
It depends. A hit and run is a felony in New York only if the accident resulted in a death, making it a Class D felony. If the accident caused only property damage, it is a traffic infraction. If it caused personal injury, it is a misdemeanor. The severity of the outcome dictates the level of the charge.
Will I go to jail for a hit and run?
It depends on the charge. For a misdemeanor hit and run involving injury, jail time of up to one year is possible. For a felony hit and run involving a death, prison time of up to seven years is possible. For a property damage-only hit and run, jail is not a typical penalty, but fines and license points apply.
What should I do if I’m accused of a hit and run?
First, do not discuss the incident with anyone other than your attorney. Second, immediately consult with a hit and run attorney in New York. An attorney can secure the evidence, determine if the charge is in TVB or criminal court, and begin building a defense, which may involve challenging whether you knew an accident occurred or if your vehicle was correctly identified.
Can I plea bargain a hit and run ticket in NYC?
No. If your hit and run ticket is handled by the Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) in New York City, plea bargaining is not allowed. Your choices are to fight the charge at a hearing or accept the finding and penalties. For hit and run charges filed in criminal court (for injuries or death), plea negotiations may be possible.
How long does a hit and run stay on my record?
A hit and run conviction will add points to your New York driving record, which remain for 18 months from the violation date. The conviction itself will appear on your permanent driving abstract. If the charge is a misdemeanor or felony, it will also create a permanent criminal record that can be seen in background checks.
More Legal Information
For related legal assistance, consider our pages on New York Traffic Lawyer services. If you are facing charges in a nearby area, our Albany County Traffic Lawyer can help. For other legal needs in Manhattan, see our New York County (Manhattan) DUI Lawyer page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.