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Burlington County Accident Results in Bicyclist’s Death, Charges for Driver

Burlington County NJ Leaving the Scene of an Accident Lawyer A young woman is now facing charges for leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, after she allegedly hit and killed a bicyclist while driving her car in Burlington County. The driver is accused of striking the victim and fleeing the scene without notifying authorities.

According to Jeff Flynn, a spokesperson for the New Jersey State Police, 20-year-old Lacey Township resident Anna Dow has been charged with leaving the scene of accident resulting in death in connection with a recent auto accident involving herself and one male victim. The collision occurred on Friday, November 11th at 3:25 p.m. on Route 532 East in Burlington County.

Officials believe that Dow struck the victim, 64-year-old Roosevelt resident Ronald Filepp, who was riding his bicycle at the time. Sadly, Filepp did not survive the fatal collision. A subsequent investigation led authorities to Dow and she was taken into custody the same day. Dow is now facing serious charges for leaving the scene of an accident.

In New Jersey, leaving the scene of an accident charges are extremely nuanced. In fact, there are separate criminal and motor vehicle charges for leaving the scene. The specific charges issued against a defendant are contingent upon the circumstances of the specific case. For example, leaving the scene of an accident is a traffic violation, enumerated under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. The penalties applicable depend upon the damage and/or injury incurred as a result of the accident.

Specifically, if the accident results in property damage only and it is the driver’s first offense, he or she is exposed to a fine ranging from $200 to $400, a sentence to serve up to 30 days in the county jail, and a 6-month period of driver’s license suspension. On the other hand, if the accident results in the injury or death of another person, the driver faces a fine ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, 180 days to be served in the county jail, and a 1-year suspension of driving privileges.

In other cases, leaving the scene of an accident is considered a criminal offense, governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1.1. When you are charged with criminal leaving the scene, this is a third degree felony, which may result in a 3 to 5-year term of incarceration in New Jersey State Prison. The State may also elect to charge you with aggravated assault or assault by auto in addition to criminal charges for leaving the scene.

Assault by auto charges are distinct in that they require the driver to be driving recklessly, driving while intoxicated, or driving with intent to collide with the victim. Assault by auto may apply when the victims suffers bodily injury. Still more, vehicular homicide charges may be issued when the driver is driving recklessly driving under the influence, or driving with intent to collide with the victim and death results.

Under any of the aforementioned circumstances, it is essential to understand the specific crimes for which you have been accused, the penalties to which you are exposed if convicted, and the burden of the State in proving its case against you. An experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney can serve as your greatest asset and your strongest advocate. Contact William Fay today at 609-832-3202 for additional information and a cost-free consultation.

For additional information pertaining to this case, access the following article: Woman charged in hit-and-run crash that killed bicyclist

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