It can be scary when we see those flashing red and blue lights pull up behind us, hear that siren, and know that we are now in trouble.
It can be tempting to hit the accelerator and try to outrun the police. But it might also be the worst thing that we can do in that situation.
Fleeing or eluding an officer in Oklahoma can cause you significant trouble in McAlester.
FAQ: Eluding an Officer in Oklahoma
When the sirens and lights come on behind you, you must pull over and stop your vehicle.
Likewise, if a law enforcement officer audibly or through other signal, directs you to pull over or stop, you must do so.
Otherwise, you may be arrested for eluding an officer in Oklahoma.
Penalties for Eluding an Officer in Oklahoma
Any willful attempt to increase your speed, extinguish your vehicle lights, or in any other manner elude law enforcement, may be a misdemeanor offense.
A conviction of eluding an officer in Oklahoma is punishable by up to a year in jail and/or a fine from $100 to $2,000 for a first conviction. A subsequent conviction is punishable by up to a year in jail and/or a fine from $500 to $5,000. (Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 540A)
If you endanger another or cause an accident in your attempt to elude an officer, you will face heightened penalties in Oklahoma. Endangering another while trying to elude a police officer makes this a felony crime punishable by a prison term of one to five years and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
If you cause an accident while eluding an officer in Oklahoma that results in great bodily injury to another person—creating a substantial risk of death, permanent disfigurement, protracted loss, or impairment—you could be charged with a felony crime. A conviction is punishable by one to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
Low-cost Consultation: McAlester Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know has been accused of eluding an officer in Oklahoma, please contact a McAlester criminal defense attorney to discuss your available legal options.
Consult with an experienced attorney at the Wirth Law Office – McAlester today, by calling 918-302-9656.
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