Leaving the scene of an accident involving damage to a vehicle is a criminal offense in Arizona, and is defined under Arizona Revised Statutes section 28-662.

Under this law, a driver who is involved in an accident that causes damage to another vehicle or property must take reasonable steps to locate and notify the owner of the damaged property. This includes providing their name, address, and vehicle registration number to the owner, or leaving a note with this information in a conspicuous place on the damaged vehicle or property.

If a driver fails to fulfill these requirements and leaves the scene of an accident involving property damage, they can be charged with a hit and run offense, which is typically charged as a Class 2 misdemeanor in Arizona.

The penalties for leaving the scene of an accident can include fines of up to $750, restitution for any damage caused, and up to four months in jail. In addition, a conviction for a hit and run offense can result in increased insurance rates and points on the driver’s license.

If you are involved in an accident that causes damage to another vehicle or property, it is important to take reasonable steps to locate and notify the owner of the damaged property. If you are charged with leaving the scene of an accident, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your legal options and potential defenses.