Hit And Run (VC 20002(a))
What is Hit and Run?
“Hit and Run” is illegal under California Vehicle Code VC 20002(a). It is often referred to as fleeing the scene of an accident. More technically speaking, a hit and run is defined as getting into an accident with a vehicle, pedestrian, animal, fixed object, or any property of another, and then leaving the scene without identifying yourself or assisting anyone who needs help.
The law states specific duties that you have once you are involved in an accident. These include:
- If possible, immediately locate the owner of the vehicle or property you damaged. You must exchange information with this person if they request it, including giving the following: (a) your address; (b) your license; (c) your registration; and (d) your insurance.
- If the owner cannot be located (for example, if you hit a parked car), you must leave a written note including your name and address. You must also call the police and let them know about the accident.
Depending on the details of your accident and how serious the resulting injuries and/or damage is, you could be facing severe penalties. The case could be either a felony or a misdemeanor.
Penalties for a hit and run may include, but are not limited to:
- Heavy Fines
- Jail or prison sentence
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
- Increased insurance rates
- Cancellation of your insurance policy
Is Hit and Run A Felony or a Misdemeanor?
A hit and run can be classified as either a misdemeanor or felony. Felony hit and run cases are defined as accidents in which an individual leaves the scene where there is an injury to another party—whether it be the passenger of a vehicle or a pedestrian.
Penalties for such a charge may include a steep fine ranging between $5,000 and $20,000, as well as incarceration. This sentence could be up to 15 years in prison, depending on the nature of the accident and the severity of the resulting injuries. If the hit and run is classified as a misdemeanor, the individual could still face a hefty fine of up to $5,000, as well as a sentence of up to 1 year in jail.
In addition to fines and confinement, a hit and run could result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license for a period ranging from six months to three years. Due to the severity of the penalties that you could face after a hit and run, it is crucial that you retain an attorney and not make any statements. The sooner you begin working with us, the sooner we can collect all evidence and details, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Our Results in Hit and Run cases:
For a detailed case study on how to win a hit and run case, look at our Case Study: Hit and Run Dismissed, available on our website.
Aside from legal defenses, the prosecutor has to prove that you were the one driving the vehicle, and also that you knew that you had hit something and then left the scene.
We do not believe that an individual should spend the rest of their life paying for an action that they made out of pure instinct. If you retain our services, you can rest assured that you have the support of a team that will tirelessly fight for you. When your future is at stake, do not wait to take action!
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Contact our firm today to find out about how we can help you with a hit and run case, and start a strategy for your case now.