Legal Question in Traffic Law in Maryland

Parking Lot Accident (Maybe)

Pulled into parking lot, man got out of his car (parked next to where I was pulling in),went around to back of his car. Didn't want to chance hitting him so went to go park in another space. When I was entering the store a man approached me and accused me of bumping his car. I was not aware of hitting any car, did not feel any impact, and the man frightened me-he seemed mentally unbalanced. He asked if I drove (described my car), I did not confirm, just said I didn't know what he was talking about since I thought he was crazy and as I said I didn't think I'd hit anyone. After spending 1/2 hr. in the store I asked the security guard to escort me out as I was afraid of a man in the parking lot, the man was still there talking on the phone, the security guard said he (phone man) was actually the store manager. He did not approach me again or end his phone call, I went around to my car and left. He had ample time to check the license plate, though - can he report it to the police and have me charged with leaving the scene of a crime? At no point did he ask to exchange information, he just tried to get me to admit bumping his car, which I'm pretty sure I didn't, but I didn't admit to being the driver of a particular car.


Asked on 3/12/07, 11:24 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jason Cleckner Law Office of Jason Cleckner, LLC

Re: Parking Lot Accident (Maybe)

If this person decides to call the police, the charge could be "failure to remain at scene of a property damage accident." It carries maximum penalties of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, 12 points on your license, plus any restitution damages.

If you are contacted by a police officer, call a lawyer before answering any questions. And if you are ticketed or arrested for this, feel free to contact me and I'd be happy to represent you in court.

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Answered on 3/13/07, 6:49 pm


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