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Car Accident Attorney NYC | Client Avoids Charges for Failure to Take Action After an Accident



A failure to act allegation under New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law §600 can escalate quickly from a misunderstanding into a potential criminal matter. 

 

In this case study, a driver who had already provided the required identifying information was later accused of leaving the scene because he had temporarily moved away from the accident location.


This case demonstrates how a car accident attorney NYC can successfully challenge assumptions of “intent to flee,” prove unavoidable circumstances, and secure a non charging outcome.


It highlights the importance of early legal representation and clarifies how even minor contact accidents can trigger legal exposure under New York law when not handled properly.

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1. Car Accident Attorney NYC | New York City Case Background and Initial Concerns


Car Accident Attorney NYC CASE

 

 

 

The client was reported under VTL §600(1)(a) after a minor contact with another vehicle. 

 

Although he had provided the required information, he became the subject of an investigation when he temporarily left the scene.


He sought help from a car accident attorney NYC to avoid charges and correct misunderstandings.



Incident Sequence and Initial Misinterpretation


The client exchanged identifying information with the other driver immediately after the incident. 

 

He then moved his vehicle to prevent a traffic obstruction, intending to return.


However, he experienced sudden dizziness and briefly rested at a nearby park. 

 

As a result, he returned to the accident location later than expected, only to find that the other driver had already left.


Days later, he was notified that he was under investigation for failure to take action after an accident under VTL §600.

 



2. Car Accident Attorney NYC | Legal Standards and Defense Approach (VTL §600)


VTL §600 imposes duties on drivers involved in accidents, including providing information and remaining at the scene when necessary.


However, liability requires proving a purposeful intent to leave without fulfilling legal duties.



Required Legal Duties Under VTL §600


Drivers involved in an accident must:

 

• Provide name, address, and insurance information

• Notify police when necessary

• Offer reasonable assistance when injuries exist

• Avoid intentionally departing the scene without completing these duties

 

The client had already fulfilled these obligations before temporarily relocating for safety.



Defense Strategy Focused on Intent and Safety


The car accident attorney NYC structured a defense based on the following points:

 

• The client moved the vehicle solely to prevent a secondary accident

• Identifying information had already been exchanged

• His temporary departure was caused by a sudden medical condition

• Early communication with the victim led to a cooperative resolution

• The attorney emphasized the absence of intent required for a VTL §600 violation

 

This approach directly countered the assumption that the client was fleeing.



3. Car Accident Attorney NYC | Evidence, Advocacy, and Case Resolution


The attorney managed communication with investigators, clarified the sequence of events, and gathered objective records supporting the client’s explanation.



Establishing the Lack of Intent to Flee


The defense team presented the following evidence:

 

• Geolocation logs confirming an attempt to return

• Proof of information exchange with the other driver

• Medical explanation for the dizziness experienced

• Statements demonstrating the absence of evasive conduct

 

These factors collectively demonstrated that the client did not intentionally leave the scene.



Non Charging Outcome Secured


The attorney facilitated communication with the complainant and highlighted the lack of criminal intent to the investigating officers.


With supporting evidence and the victim’s willingness to resolve the matter, the police issued a non charging decision, clearing the client of all allegations under VTL §600.



4. Car Accident Attorney NYC | Importance of Early Representation in VTL §600 Matters


Cases involving allegations of leaving or failing to act at an accident scene are highly sensitive, and misunderstandings can rapidly escalate into criminal exposure.



Why Immediate Legal Assistance Matters


• Prevents inaccurate or harmful early statements

 

• Ensures proper and timely delivery of evidence

 

• Guides the client through police inquiries

 

• Supports negotiations and communication with the complainant

 

• Minimizes the risk of criminal charges

 

A car accident attorney NYC can significantly influence the outcome by acting quickly and strategically.


26 Nov, 2025


The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading or relying on the contents of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with our firm. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
Certain informational content on this website may utilize technology-assisted drafting tools and is subject to attorney review.

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