If you are involved in a traffic accident in Zoetermeer, you are obliged to stop and share your details. Failing to stop is considered a serious offence and can lead to severe penalties, especially in cases of injury or significant damage.
Legal Responsibilities
According to Article 7 of the Road Traffic Act, drivers must take specific steps after an accident to comply with the law.
Your Obligations
- Stop immediately in a safe place
- Share your name and contact details
- If requested, show your driving licence number and registration plate
- Provide assistance to any victims
Penalties for Failing to Stop
The severity of the penalty for failing to stop after an accident varies depending on the circumstances and consequences.
Maximum Sanctions
| Circumstance | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|
| Material damage only | 2 months detention |
| In case of injury or death | 3 years imprisonment |
| With additional offences | Higher penalties possible |
Leaving the Accident Scene
Even if you are not at fault, but involved in the accident, you must remain at the scene.
Involvement in an Accident
- You (partly) caused the accident
- Your vehicle was hit during the incident
- Your behaviour influenced the accident
Challenges with Evidence
Failing to stop can lead to complications in establishing who the driver was at the time of the accident.
Responsibility of the Registered Keeper
The vehicle owner may be required to disclose the identity of the driver. Refusing to do so is punishable.
Connection with Other Offences
Failing to stop is often combined with other criminal acts, which can aggravate the penalty.
Common Combinations
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driving without a valid driving licence
- Risk-creating driving behaviour
- Use of a stolen vehicle
Advice After an Accident in Zoetermeer
- Always stop, even in case of minimal damage
- Share your details with the other party
- Document the situation with photos
- Call the police if the other party fails to stop
Frequently Asked Questions about Traffic Accidents
What should I do if I am involved in an accident?
Stop immediately and park your vehicle safely. Provide assistance to the injured, exchange details such as name, address and registration plate, and call 112 in serious situations. Take photos of the damage and file a report if the other party does not cooperate.
What are the consequences of failing to stop after an accident?
Failing to stop is punishable. In cases of damage to property only, you risk 2 months detention. In cases of injury or death, this can amount to 3 years imprisonment. Additional offences, such as driving under the influence, increase the penalty.
Am I obliged to stop if I am not at fault?
Yes, you must stop if you are involved, even without fault. This applies if your vehicle was touched or if your actions had an influence. Failing to stop can lead to criminal prosecution.
What if I do not want to share my details after an accident?
Refusing to exchange details is punishable and can be regarded as failing to stop. This can lead to fines or imprisonment. The police can compel you to provide details.
How do I prove that I did not fail to stop?
Gather witness statements, take photos or videos of the situation, and retain dashcam footage. An alibi or other evidence can help. Always report the incident to the police.