Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Olin College of Engineering
Student Criminal Defense in Dedham District Court
Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious motor vehicle offense in Massachusetts, even when no one is hurt and the damage seems minor. Many college students are charged unintentionally after parking lot incidents, off-campus fender benders, or situations where panic sets in.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett defend Olin College of Engineering students charged with leaving the scene of an accident. We work to protect your criminal record, your driver's license, and your academic future while guiding you through Dedham District Court and any related school discipline.
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley, Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Cranston, Rhode Island Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Massachusetts Law on Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Leaving the scene of an accident is governed by M.G.L. c. 90 § 24. The law requires drivers to stop and provide information when involved in an accident that causes:
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Property damage, or
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Personal injury
Failing to stop, identify yourself, or report the incident can result in criminal charges, even if the damage was minimal or unintentional.
The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident involved property damage or bodily injury.
Common Situations Where Students Are Charged
Olin College students are often charged after situations such as:
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Bumping a parked car near campus and driving away
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Minor off-campus accidents involving neighbors or local residents
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Parking lot incidents after campus events or social gatherings
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Accidents at night where the driver claims they were unaware of contact
In many cases, students do not realize they are facing criminal charges until police follow up days or weeks later.
Criminal Penalties for Leaving the Scene in Massachusetts
Penalties vary based on the nature of the accident.
Leaving the Scene – Property Damage
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Up to 2 years in jail
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Fines up to $200
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Mandatory license suspension of at least 60 days
Leaving the Scene – Personal Injury
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Felony offense
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Up to 2 years in jail or up to 10 years in state prison
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Fines up to $5,000
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Mandatory license suspension of at least 1 year
Cases involving Olin College students are typically handled in:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street
Dedham, MA 02026
A conviction can also appear on your CORI and affect employment, internships, and graduate school applications.
Olin College Code of Conduct and Off-Campus Incidents
Olin College holds students accountable for off-campus behavior that reflects on the community. The Honor Code emphasizes integrity, responsibility, and accountability.
If you are charged with leaving the scene of an accident, Olin may:
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Initiate student conduct proceedings
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Impose disciplinary probation
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Restrict housing or campus privileges
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Require meetings or educational sanctions
The college may act regardless of whether the criminal case is ultimately dismissed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I didn't know I hit something?
Lack of knowledge can be a defense, but prosecutors may argue you should have known based on the circumstances.
What if I returned to the scene later?
Returning later does not automatically prevent charges, but cooperation can significantly improve the outcome.
Will this go on my permanent record?
If convicted, yes. Our goal is to avoid a conviction through dismissal, CWOF, or alternative resolutions.
Defense Strategies for Leaving the Scene Charges
Me and my team carefully analyze every case, including:
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Whether you had actual knowledge of the accident
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The severity and proof of alleged damage
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Timing of police involvement and reporting
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Whether you later cooperated or attempted to resolve the matter
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Your clean record and student status
We also work to mitigate academic consequences through parallel representation in school conduct matters.
Why Olin College Students Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett understand how motor vehicle charges uniquely affect students. We provide:
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Focused defense against hit-and-run allegations
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Regular representation in Dedham District Court
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Experience handling student conduct proceedings
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A strategy designed to protect your license, record, and future
Contact The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett Today
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
If you are an Olin College student facing a leaving the scene of an accident charge, act quickly. Contact me today for a confidential consultation and immediate legal guidance.
