A charge for leaving the scene of an accident in Groveville can quickly spiral into fines, points, license consequences, and even jail exposure in serious cases. New Jersey law requires drivers to stop, exchange information, and render reasonable aid after a collision. When that does not happen, municipal prosecutors may pursue penalties, and cases involving injuries can also draw criminal charges under Title 2C. The Law Office of Edward Appel helps drivers navigate local procedures, timelines, and court expectations in Mercer County. From the moment you receive a ticket or learn of an investigation, informed guidance can protect your rights and lay the groundwork for a measured, strategic response.
Early action matters. Evidence can fade, witnesses move, and insurance communications get complicated fast. Whether your matter stems from a parking lot scrape or a roadway crash, our team helps you document what happened, identify legal issues, and chart a plan tailored to Groveville and nearby municipal courts. We focus on clear communication, practical steps, and options that reflect your goals—minimizing penalties, safeguarding your license, and addressing restitution when appropriate. If police have contacted you, or if you suspect you are being investigated, speak with counsel before making statements. Call 856-856-2373 to discuss your situation and learn how the process works in New Jersey.
The Law Office of Edward Appel represents drivers across New Jersey in traffic violations and related criminal matters, including allegations of leaving the scene of an accident. From Groveville to courts throughout Mercer County, we bring informed advocacy, practical case management, and respectful client service to every matter. Our background in personal injury, criminal defense, and DUI cases helps us anticipate how insurance, restitution, and municipal court processes intersect. We aim to provide clear explanations, candid assessments, and steady representation from first contact to final outcome. If you are worried about your license, employment, or insurance premiums, we will help you understand the stakes and your available options.
New Jersey’s leaving-the-scene law, N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, requires drivers involved in an accident to stop, remain at the scene, exchange identifying and insurance information, and render reasonable assistance when necessary. Even in minor property damage incidents, failing to stop can trigger significant penalties. The state distinguishes between collisions with property damage only and crashes involving personal injury or death, with more severe consequences in the latter category. Because the statute sets specific duties after a crash, cases often turn on what actually happened, the driver’s awareness, and the steps taken immediately afterward. Documenting your actions quickly can be vital to your defense and case strategy.
Penalties for leaving the scene can include fines, MVC points, community service, potential jail exposure, and license suspension, particularly if injury is alleged. In some circumstances, prosecutors may also bring related charges, such as failure to report an accident or reckless driving, and injury cases can overlap with criminal statutes under Title 2C. Negotiations often focus on restitution, clarity around what the driver knew, and whether alternative outcomes are available. Every case is unique, and the right approach depends on facts, history, and proof. A thoughtful, locally informed strategy can help reduce risk while positioning you for a workable resolution in Mercer County municipal court.
Leaving the scene in New Jersey is generally defined as failing to stop and fulfill statutory duties after being involved in a collision. Those duties include stopping safely, providing name, address, driver’s license, and registration to the other party or police, and rendering reasonable aid to anyone injured. When only property damage is involved, timely identification and cooperation often guide outcomes. When injuries are claimed, law enforcement may escalate the response, and prosecutors examine whether the driver knew or should have known about the crash. Disputes commonly center on the extent of contact, visibility, noise, and vehicle damage, as well as the driver’s prompt efforts to report the incident.
Prosecutors typically look to prove that you operated a vehicle, an accident occurred, you were involved, you knew or reasonably should have known about the collision, and you failed to stop and perform required duties. The process usually begins with a traffic stop, mailed summons, or investigator contact. From there, discovery is exchanged, and court appearances are scheduled. Many cases resolve through negotiations involving restitution, amendments, or alternative dispositions. Defenses can include lack of knowledge, misidentification, or proof undermining the claim that a collision occurred. Early evidence collection—dashcam footage, photos, repair records, and witness statements—often shapes leverage, negotiations, and the ultimate outcome.
Understanding common terms helps you follow the process and make informed choices. New Jersey uses Title 39 for motor vehicle violations like leaving the scene and Title 2C for criminal offenses. Some matters begin as traffic tickets but become more serious if injuries are alleged or if additional conduct is charged. Insurance issues, points, and license status can ripple through decisions about negotiation and trial. Keep records of communications, estimates, and photos, and avoid assumptions about what the other party reported. With a clear vocabulary and organized paperwork, you can better assist your attorney and improve the chances of a fair, efficient resolution in Groveville.
This New Jersey statute sets the duties of drivers involved in accidents, including stopping, exchanging information, and providing reasonable assistance to injured persons. Violations can lead to fines, points, license consequences, and potential jail in serious cases.
A defense arguing the driver did not know and could not reasonably have known that a collision occurred. Evidence can include minimal vehicle damage, low-speed contact, ambient noise, and the driver’s prompt efforts upon learning of the incident.
An injury creating a substantial risk of death, or causing permanent disfigurement or loss of function. Accidents involving serious injury may trigger criminal charges under Title 2C, in addition to traffic charges under Title 39.
Payment made to compensate for losses tied to the incident, such as property damage. Restitution can be a factor in negotiations and may support alternative resolutions that focus on accountability instead of harsher penalties.
Drivers typically choose among self-representation, seeking a public defender if financially eligible, or retaining private counsel. Handling a case alone may seem cost-effective, but it can carry hidden risks around statements, discovery, and collateral consequences. Public defenders provide a vital service, yet availability depends on income and case type. Private counsel can tailor strategy, communication, and scheduling to your circumstances, often coordinating insurance and restitution conversations alongside court advocacy. The right path depends on the allegations, your record, your time constraints, and your risk tolerance. A brief consultation helps you weigh options, costs, and likely outcomes in Mercer County’s municipal courts.
In low-impact situations with minimal damage, prompt cooperation can go a long way. If you quickly provide insurance information, document the scene, and address repair costs through your carrier, the matter may remain focused on restitution rather than punishment. Bringing proof of repairs, estimates, and communications to court can show responsibility and reduce tensions. While no outcome is guaranteed, proactive steps can create opportunities for amendments or reduced penalties. A limited approach still benefits from guidance on what to share, how to frame your actions, and the timing of any statement, which can significantly influence negotiations in Groveville.
Some drivers genuinely do not realize contact occurred, particularly with low-speed or side-swipe incidents. If vehicle damage is minor, noise was substantial around the roadway, or visibility was poor, a documented lack of awareness may narrow the issues. Photos, repair invoices, dashcam captures, and witness accounts can support your position. In these circumstances, a concise presentation of evidence and measured communication with the prosecutor may be sufficient. Even so, it is wise to coordinate the release of information and statements to avoid misunderstandings that could weaken this defense. Careful preparation can keep a manageable case from becoming more complicated.
If a crash involves reported injuries, or if you also received citations like reckless driving or failure to report, the stakes escalate. Prosecutors may seek stiffer penalties and license consequences, and insurance exposure often grows. A comprehensive plan can include independent investigation, medical record analysis, and strategic sequencing of restitution discussions to avoid admissions. It may also call for motion practice, expert consultation on accident dynamics, and coordination with any civil claim. In these cases, focused preparation aims to protect your driving privileges while positioning you for the most practical outcome the facts will support in Mercer County court.
A prior record, open tickets, or a high point total can make even a modest leaving-the-scene case risky. New Jersey’s point system and mandatory suspensions can compound quickly, affecting employment and insurance costs. A comprehensive approach focuses on triaging exposure across all pending matters, timing court appearances, and exploring outcomes that limit points or suspensions. It may involve defensive driving coursework, documentation of employment needs, and careful presentation of mitigating circumstances. With your driving future at stake, layered advocacy can help avoid cascading consequences and seek a resolution that keeps you on the road whenever the law permits.
A comprehensive defense aligns investigation, negotiation, and courtroom advocacy into a cohesive plan. By collecting photos, dashcam footage, repair records, and witness accounts early, you improve leverage and reduce reliance on the other side’s version of events. Careful communication with insurers and careful timing of any restitution can reduce misunderstandings and support better outcomes. Coordinating these steps under one strategy also helps prevent mixed messages that can undermine credibility. In practice, this coordination can open doors to amendments, reduced points, or alternative resolutions that prioritize accountability without disproportionate penalties for Groveville drivers.
Comprehensive representation also anticipates collateral effects: license status, insurance renewals, employment needs, and professional obligations. By addressing these concerns from the outset, you can avoid surprises that appear late in the process. Strategic scheduling, diligent discovery review, and targeted motions can sharpen the issues and compel fair evaluations of the facts. While no attorney can promise a result, an organized plan makes it easier to pursue every reasonable option. For drivers in Groveville and across Mercer County, that often translates into more informed choices and an outcome that fits both the law and the realities of daily life.
Time-sensitive evidence can make or break a leaving-the-scene case. Dashcam footage overwrites, businesses reuse surveillance tapes, and vehicles are repaired before proper documentation. Prioritizing evidence preservation helps anchor defenses like lack of knowledge, misidentification, or minimal impact. It also strengthens mitigation, showing prompt responsibility and practical problem-solving. By securing statements while memories are fresh and capturing high-quality photos, you build a reliable record for negotiations and, if necessary, trial. Early preservation reduces uncertainty, narrows disputes, and can shorten the path to resolution, particularly in Groveville matters where local businesses may cycle recordings on tight schedules.
Comprehensive planning shapes negotiations with a clear narrative, supporting documents, and sensible proposals. When you control the timeline—evidence first, then talks—you reduce the chance of concessions that outpace the facts. This approach can support amended charges, balanced restitution, or alternative dispositions that aim to protect your license. It also ensures consistency across court, insurance, and any civil discussions, preventing statements in one venue from complicating another. With a well-supported plan, prosecutors can evaluate the matter fairly, and you can make decisions based on solid information rather than pressure. That coordinated strategy often leads to more sustainable outcomes.
Well-intended explanations to police, insurers, or the other driver can be misinterpreted. Before giving recorded statements, consult a lawyer who understands New Jersey procedures. Together, you can decide what to say, when to say it, and what documents to share. This helps avoid admissions about knowledge, speed, or visibility that could weaken your defense. If contacted by an investigator, politely request time to obtain counsel and provide contact information. A brief pause to coordinate your response often preserves options and prevents confusion, especially in Groveville matters where facts may be developing quickly in the days following a crash.
Points, suspensions, and premium increases can be as disruptive as fines. Understanding your point total, prior history, and eligibility for remedial options helps you make informed choices in court. Ask about alternatives that may reduce points or lessen suspension risk. Coordinate any restitution in a way that supports your legal strategy without conceding liability beyond what’s necessary. Keep your insurer updated through counsel to avoid misstatements or gaps in coverage. By organizing these issues from the outset, you reduce surprises and focus negotiations on solutions that preserve driving privileges and financial stability in New Jersey.
Even a first allegation of leaving the scene can lead to points, fines, community service, and insurance fallout. If injury is alleged, the risk can include license suspension and potential jail exposure. Having counsel helps you frame the facts clearly, avoid unhelpful statements, and make smart decisions about restitution and insurance. It also keeps the process moving on your terms, not just the court’s. With guidance tailored to Mercer County practices, you can address what matters most—protecting your license, limiting penalties, and minimizing disruptions to work and family while pursuing a balanced outcome.
Legal guidance brings structure to an otherwise stressful situation. You gain a plan for evidence, court appearances, and communications with insurers and the prosecutor. You also gain perspective on likely outcomes based on your record and the facts. Whether the path involves negotiation or litigation, the goal is to reduce risk and secure a result that makes sense for your life in Groveville. Most drivers feel relief once roles are clear and next steps are mapped out. That confidence makes it easier to focus on work and family while your legal team handles the details.
Allegations often arise from low-speed parking lot contact, nighttime side-swipes where noise and weather obscure what happened, and busy intersections where drivers feel unsafe stopping in traffic. Multi-vehicle collisions can create confusion about which car touched what, and drivers sometimes leave intending to report from a safer location but fail to contact police promptly. Delivery vehicles and commuters with tight schedules may not notice minor contact until later. Each scenario depends on context: visibility, impact force, vehicle height, and roadway conditions. The right defense examines these details and matches them with evidence that explains your actions and knowledge in a practical, credible way.
Crowded lots produce low-speed contact where drivers may not notice paint transfer or small dents until much later. Surveillance may be limited, and witnesses often leave no contact information. If you later discover damage, promptly document it, check for dashcam or store footage, and contact counsel before speaking with insurers or the other party. Presenting a clear record of timing, lighting, and vehicle angles can support defenses and keep the focus on restitution rather than punishment. In Groveville, businesses may cycle recordings quickly, so moving fast to preserve relevant clips can make the difference between a disputed claim and a workable resolution.
At night, poor lighting, wet roads, and heavy background noise can mask subtle contact. Drivers may believe debris or a pothole caused a sound, not another vehicle. Later, when damage appears, the situation becomes confusing. Evidence like roadway lighting photos, weather data, and close-up images of scuff marks can clarify what happened and whether a driver reasonably knew about contact. Quick consultation helps avoid premature statements that might contradict the physical evidence. When handled carefully, these cases can shift from accusations of intentional flight to a reasoned discussion about awareness, safety, and steps taken once information became clear.
Intersections create chaos: horns, sudden braking, and cars converging from multiple directions. In the moment, drivers may focus on avoiding greater danger and reach a safe location before realizing contact was made. If you left intending to report but did not connect with police right away, explain the sequence with care. Cell phone location data, dashcam timestamps, and photographs can help reconstruct events and demonstrate intentions. Prosecutors often consider context when supported by documentation. A calm, evidence-driven presentation can reduce penalties, encourage practical resolutions, and show that safety—not evasion—guided your decisions amid confusing and rapidly changing conditions.
Our firm focuses on practical, respectful representation for New Jersey drivers, balancing advocacy with clear communication. We understand how a single ticket can impact employment, insurance, and daily life, and we build strategies that reflect those realities. From Groveville’s municipal court to neighboring venues, we bring insights into local procedures, discovery practices, and negotiation dynamics. You receive a plan that fits your goals, whether that means contesting elements of the charge, seeking amendments, or negotiating restitution in a way that preserves defenses. Throughout, we keep you informed so you can make confident, informed decisions.
We also recognize that leaving-the-scene allegations often intersect with insurance claims and potential civil disputes. Our background across personal injury, criminal defense, and DUI matters helps us anticipate those overlaps and coordinate communications accordingly. That coordination can protect against inconsistent statements and support a more unified presentation of the facts. You’ll have a dedicated point of contact, prompt updates, and straightforward advice about timelines, likely outcomes, and the pros and cons of each option. The goal is consistent: reduce risk, protect your license, and resolve the matter with as little disruption as possible.
Every case receives individualized attention, starting with a careful review of the incident, your driving history, and your immediate concerns. We then assemble the documents and evidence needed to advance your position, from vehicle photos and repair records to potential surveillance requests. Negotiations are grounded in facts and framed around fairness, restitution, and safety. If litigation becomes necessary, we are prepared to advocate in court while maintaining the professionalism that helps facilitate constructive resolutions. When your reputation and mobility are on the line, steady guidance and thoughtful planning can make a meaningful difference.
Our approach is straightforward: listen, evaluate, preserve evidence, and act with purpose. We start by learning your goals and concerns, then map out a plan that addresses court deadlines, discovery, and insurance communications. We prioritize early evidence collection—dashcam files, photos, repair estimates, and surveillance requests—because timing shapes leverage. Negotiations follow once the record is strong and your risks are understood. Throughout, we explain your options plainly and prepare you for each appearance. Whether the case resolves through amendment, alternative disposition, or hearing, the path is transparent and designed to protect your license and livelihood.
The first step is a thorough intake to capture the facts, review summonses, and identify urgent needs. We advise you on communications with insurers and investigators, aiming to prevent statements that could be misunderstood. We also request discovery and examine the allegations against statutory elements. If surveillance may exist, we move quickly to preserve it. You receive clear guidance on what to gather and how to document events, including photos and repair records. By stabilizing the situation early, we prepare a foundation for negotiations or litigation and reduce the risk of avoidable complications in Groveville’s municipal court.
We begin with a detailed discussion to understand what happened, what you observed, and any steps you took after the incident. You’ll receive a checklist for gathering dashcam files, photos, witness contacts, and repair documents. We examine your driving history and point status to gauge suspension risk. If necessary, we advise on avoiding vehicle repairs that might erase crucial evidence before documentation is complete. This structured intake ensures nothing important gets overlooked and puts us in the best position to pursue amendments, clarifications, or defenses aligned with New Jersey law and local practice.
We coordinate with the court and prosecutor, confirm dates, and address discovery promptly. If investigators or insurers have contacted you, we help manage those communications to prevent misstatements. We also identify whether restitution discussions make sense now or should wait until the record is stronger. This measured approach reduces pressure and keeps the case on a timeline that benefits you. By addressing risks early—statements, lost evidence, and scheduling—we create space to build a persuasive narrative and look for outcomes that protect your license and minimize penalties.
With initial protection in place, we deepen the investigation. We analyze discovery, consult with potential witnesses, review photos and repair data, and test defenses tied to knowledge, identification, or minimal impact. We then craft a strategy that accounts for your goals, exposure, and proof. Negotiations follow with a clear narrative and supporting documents, exploring options like amendments, reduced points, or alternative dispositions focused on restitution and safety. You remain informed at every step, enabling you to make choices based on facts and risk, not guesswork or pressure.
A persuasive record is essential. We organize photos, dashcam or surveillance footage, witness statements, and repair records into a coherent presentation. Where appropriate, we incorporate roadway and lighting context to address awareness issues. We also review discovery for inconsistencies or gaps, and we consider targeted motions where the facts warrant. This evidence-first approach supports defensible positions and prepares us for either a negotiated resolution or a contested hearing. By the time negotiations begin, we know the strengths and vulnerabilities well enough to propose solutions that make practical sense for all involved.
We enter negotiations with a clear, documented narrative that frames the incident accurately and fairly. Options may include charge amendments, structured restitution, educational programs, or other alternatives that reduce points and limit license exposure. We are candid about risks and realistic outcomes, helping you decide whether to accept an offer or proceed. Throughout, we coordinate with any civil insurer to maintain consistency and avoid statements that could harm your legal position. If talks stall, we are prepared to pivot to motion practice or hearing with the same evidence-driven focus.
When a hearing is needed, we focus on clarity, credibility, and preparation. You will know what to expect, what questions may arise, and how your evidence fits the legal elements. After court, we help you complete any obligations—restitution, community service, or coursework—and provide guidance on insurance and MVC issues. Our aim is to resolve the matter and leave you with a plan to prevent future complications. From start to finish, the process is designed to safeguard your driving privileges and move you forward on solid footing.
We prepare you for court by reviewing testimony, exhibits, and the sequence of events. If you testify, we discuss how to communicate clearly without speculation. We organize exhibits to align with statutory elements, highlighting evidence that supports awareness, identification, or mitigation themes. We handle objections, ensure your rights are protected, and maintain a professional tone that aids constructive resolution. The goal is a fair hearing where facts—not assumptions—drive the outcome, and where your preparation shows respect for the process and the court’s time.
After resolution, we assist with documentation of restitution, community service, or any court-ordered requirements. We provide guidance on insurance notifications, claim handling, and steps to avoid future point accumulation. If new information emerges, we evaluate whether additional action is appropriate. You will leave with a clear checklist and a direct line for follow-up questions. Our commitment is practical: help you finish strong, protect your license going forward, and avoid surprises that can arise when administrative tasks are left unresolved.
Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, drivers involved in a collision must stop safely, provide identification and insurance information, and render reasonable assistance when needed. If police are present, you must cooperate with lawful requests. If the other driver is unavailable, you must promptly report the incident to law enforcement. These duties apply even when damage appears minor. Documentation matters: take photos, note locations, and collect witness names when it is safe to do so. If you leave before exchanging information or without notifying police, prosecutors may allege a violation. Context still matters—visibility, safety concerns, and your subsequent actions can influence outcomes. When in doubt, call law enforcement, seek medical attention if necessary, and consult counsel before giving detailed statements. A short conversation early on can prevent misunderstandings and help you meet your obligations while protecting your rights in Groveville.
Penalties vary by whether the incident involved property damage only or injuries. Consequences can include fines, MVC points, community service, and potential jail exposure in injury-related cases. Repeated violations or accompanying tickets—like reckless driving or failure to report—can increase risks. Insurance premiums may rise, and your license can be affected. Each case depends on facts, record, and available proof. Municipal courts consider restitution, cooperation, and evidence of awareness when evaluating resolutions. Some cases resolve through amendments or alternative dispositions that reduce points. Others proceed to hearing if the parties disagree about what happened. A focused strategy—built on timely evidence and measured communications—can help steer the outcome toward a result that fits the circumstances and your driving history in New Jersey.
Yes, charges can be filed even when a driver says they did not realize contact occurred. The question becomes whether you knew or reasonably should have known about the collision. Evidence such as vehicle damage, dashcam or surveillance footage, and roadway conditions can clarify awareness. Low-speed contact, poor lighting, or loud ambient noise sometimes support a defense that awareness was not reasonable at the time. If you discover possible contact later, promptly document your vehicle, note when and how you learned of damage, and consult counsel before making statements. Careful handling of insurance communications and a well-documented timeline can strengthen negotiations. When supported by proof, a lack-of-knowledge argument may reduce penalties or open the door to a more practical resolution in Mercer County court.
License consequences depend on the specific subsection charged, your point history, and whether injuries are alleged. For property-damage-only cases with a clean record, outcomes sometimes focus on restitution and points rather than suspension. Where injuries are claimed, or where multiple tickets are issued, suspension risk rises. Courts also look at cooperation, timely reporting, and evidence of intent to comply with the law. Before court, review your MVC history and gather documents that show responsibility—repair estimates, photos, and communications. A thoughtful plan can help minimize points and protect driving privileges whenever the law allows. Because each case is unique, a brief consultation provides clarity on realistic ranges and options based on your facts and record in Groveville.
Law enforcement may rely on witness statements, plate numbers, vehicle descriptions, paint transfer, and repair records to identify a driver. Surveillance or dashcam footage can be persuasive, as can admissions or inconsistent statements. In some cases, investigators contact registered owners to learn who was driving. The strength of proof varies and must be tested against the elements of the offense. You do not have to guess your way through this. Preserve evidence, avoid speculative statements, and consider legal counsel before answering detailed questions. Effective defense work examines the reliability of identifications, timing of reports, and whether the evidence truly supports knowledge of the collision. In many Groveville matters, careful scrutiny of the record shapes negotiations and outcomes.
If injuries are alleged, the matter can become more serious. Prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties, and in some circumstances related criminal charges under Title 2C may be considered. Medical records, photographs, and statements become important, and negotiations often revolve around causation, awareness, and restitution. Courts look closely at cooperation and the quality of the evidence presented. A step-by-step plan helps manage risk: preserve evidence, avoid broad statements, and coordinate communications through counsel. Where appropriate, structured restitution and educational components may support more balanced outcomes. Each injury case in New Jersey turns on its facts. A measured, evidence-first approach gives you the best chance to reach a fair result.
Before speaking with another driver’s insurer, consult counsel. Their adjuster’s questions may be framed to fix liability or probe for statements about knowledge of contact. You are not required to provide a recorded statement without guidance. Premature or inaccurate comments can complicate your defense and affect policy coverage. Your attorney can help decide what to share and when, and can coordinate documentation like photos and repair estimates. This prevents misunderstandings and supports a consistent narrative in court and any civil claim. Proper sequencing—evidence first, then discussion—often improves leverage and encourages practical outcomes in Groveville matters.
Most leaving-the-scene matters are handled in municipal court, and appearances are typically required unless the court permits other arrangements. Your notice or summons will list the location, date, and time. If you cannot attend, contact counsel early to explore options, such as adjournments or limited appearances, as allowed by court rules. Appearing prepared matters. Bring requested documents and follow local instructions. Your attorney can guide you on what to expect, how to dress, and how the hearing will proceed. Being organized and respectful of the process can influence outcomes and keep your case moving efficiently through the Mercer County system.
In some cases, prosecutors will consider amendments to reduce points or adjust charges, especially when restitution is timely and evidence supports mitigation. Outcomes depend on facts, record, and the strength of the defense. While no result is guaranteed, a well-prepared file with clear documentation often improves the discussion. Alternatives may include different traffic offenses, educational components, or structured agreements. Your lawyer will weigh the benefits and tradeoffs of each option, including insurance implications. The aim is a resolution that aligns with the evidence and protects your license whenever possible under New Jersey law.
Contact a lawyer as soon as you receive a summons, are approached by investigators, or suspect an incident occurred. Speed matters because surveillance and dashcam footage can be lost quickly, and early statements can carry long-lasting effects. A short consultation helps set priorities and prevents avoidable missteps. Once represented, you gain a plan for evidence, court scheduling, and communications that reflects your goals and risk tolerance. You’ll understand likely outcomes, and your attorney can begin shaping the record in your favor. In Groveville, early action frequently translates into clearer negotiations and more manageable resolutions.