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North Carolina Hit and Run – Duty to Stop Laws


North Carolina law requires that you stop after being involved in any accident. When you stop you are required to provide the other driver or pedestrian with “reasonable” assistance if they are injured and give information such as your name, phone number, and insurance company to any other driver of another car involved in the accident.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Hit and Run Penalties

If you fail to fulfill your duty to stop, you may be charged with hit and run. The category of this offense and the potential sentence depend on the severity of the accident.
If the accident only results in property damage and/or minimal injury, you are facing Class 1 misdemeanor charges. Misdemeanor hit and run for leaving the scene of an accident with property damage or minor injury carries a potential sentence of up to one year in jail as well as fines.
If the accident results in death or a serious injury, Class H felony charges may be filed. Felony hit and run carries a potential sentence of up to 8 months for a first time offender. This means if you have no criminal history, 8 months is the most time you will be sentenced to. If, however, you have prior convictions on your record, this sentence can be increased substantially.
Depending on your record, you may be eligible for probation rather than prison time.