A hit-and-run accident in South Carolina may result in either a misdemeanor or a felony charge. Though less serious than a felony, a misdemeanor can nevertheless carry serious legal consequences. For example, the star of a popular reality TV program may lose custody of her children in a court battle with her ex-boyfriend due to a video purportedly showing her crashing into a parked vehicle with her car, then leaving the scene of the accident without alerting authorities or leaving insurance information for the owner of the other automobile.
Penalties for a hit-and-run accident in South Carolina can include up to $25,000 in fines and imprisonment for a span of time ranging from 30 days to 25 years, depending on the severity of the offense. In this case, the star’s ex-boyfriend claims that the alleged incident, recorded in a security video reportedly filed in court, reflects a gross lack of integrity and character, rendering her an unsuitable parent to their two children.
The video allegedly shows the star driving off after crashing into a parked vehicle with her SUV while backing out of a space in the same parking lot. The incident allegedly happened in October of last year, and the video purportedly shows the star driving away without even getting out of her car to assess the damage.
Regardless of the eventual outcome of the case, it demonstrates that misdemeanors and traffic accidents may have unforeseen consequences. Therefore it may be prudent for those involved in a similar situation to consult a lawyer experienced in such matters.
