The Allegation

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Bilal Hassan was charged following a hit-and-run incident in Bankstown that left an elderly man seriously injured.

The prosecution alleged that:

• he struck an 88-year-old pedestrian with his vehicle

• he failed to stop and assist after the collision

• he left the scene and did not immediately report the incident

The Crown case focused on both the dangerous driving and the failure to remain at the scene.

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The Reality of the Case

The Court heard that the incident had severe consequences for the victim.

Evidence established that:

• the victim, an elderly man using a walking frame, was struck while crossing the road

• he suffered a fractured skull and was left lying on the road

• the accused fled the scene and only handed himself in almost 24 hours later

• the accused later stated that he panicked and believed he had killed the victim

The victim survived but required ongoing care following the incident.

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Our Defence Strategy

In serious traffic matters, the defence focuses on minimising custodial risk and presenting mitigating circumstances.

Key areas include:

• presenting evidence of remorse and acknowledgment of wrongdoing

• explaining the accused’s actions immediately after the incident

• highlighting cooperation with police, including surrendering to authorities

• demonstrating prospects of rehabilitation

The strategy is to show the Court that, despite the seriousness of the offence, imprisonment is not necessary.

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The Court’s Findings

The Court found that:

• the accused was responsible for the collision

• he failed to stop and assist the victim as required by law

• the injuries caused were serious

The magistrate was critical of the decision to leave the scene but accepted that the accused later took responsibility by surrendering to police

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The Result

The accused avoided full-time imprisonment.

Instead, the Court imposed:

• a two-year good behaviour bond

• a fine of $3,500

• disqualification from driving for 18 months

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Why This Case Matters

This case highlights an important principle in criminal law:
Even serious traffic offences are assessed based on both the conduct and the offender’s circumstances.

It reinforces that:

• leaving the scene of an accident is treated as a serious offence

• courts take into account remorse and cooperation

• non-custodial outcomes may still be available in appropriate cases

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Our Expertise

At Abbas & Co Lawyers, we act in serious criminal and traffic matters including:

• dangerous driving offences

• hit-and-run cases

• licence disqualification matters

• sentencing advocacy

We know how to:

• present strong mitigation in serious driving cases

• reduce the risk of imprisonment

• challenge the prosecution’s characterisation of conduct

• achieve practical and effective outcomes

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Speak to Us

If you or a loved one is facing serious traffic or criminal charges, early legal advice is critical.

These matters carry significant consequences, including imprisonment and licence loss.

Contact Abbas & Co Lawyers to discuss your options.