Hit and Run Consequences in California
The criminal act commonly known as a "hit and run" occurs when someone who is involved in a motor vehicle collision leaves the scene without properly identifying him or herself or by producing the proper driver documentation.
Your penalties will vary depending on:
- The nature of the accident
- If any person was injured during the accident
- The severity of the other person's injuries (if any)
- Cooperation with law enforcement
- The extent of property damage
- If the defendant has any prior offenses on his/her criminal record
If a person is convicted of a hit and run offense they face the possibility of spending time in jail or prison, being supervised on a lengthy probation, paying large fines and fees, and losing their driver's license.
According to California law, all individuals involved in car accidents must properly identify themselves if they injure another person or cause damage to another person's property - regardless of the amount of damage! If a person fails to properly identify him or herself and leaves the scene of the accident, he or she will be subject to criminal charges.
Charged with hit and run? We'll review your charges and possible defenses at no cost. Contact us at (707) 636-3204 today!
Misdemeanor or Felony Hit and Run Offenses
Hit and run offenses in California may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the seriousness of the accident, the extent of the damage caused, and the defendant's past criminal record.
The differences in classifications are outlined below:
- Misdemeanor - For minor traffic accidents where there is minimal property damage and no physical injury, a misdemeanor offense will most likely be charged by the District Attorney's Office. Under California law, a misdemeanor hit and run is defined as, "a failure to immediately stop at the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in property damage."
- Felony - When bodily injury or death results from the collision and resulting hit and run offense, a felony will most likely be charged by the District Attorney's Office. A felony hit and run in California is defined as, "a failure to immediately stop at the scene of a motor vehicle accident involving death or permanent injury to any person associated with the accident."
Elite Advocacy & Cutting-Edge Legal Defense from a Santa Rosa Hit & Run Attorney
Due to the life-altering legal consequences that are involved with hit & run offenses, it is always in a person's best interest to obtain the services of a Santa Rosa hit and run lawyer who has the legal background and knowledge it takes to successfully fight hit and run charges. The Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C. is located in downtown Santa Rosa, California. We are minutes away from the courthouse and jail facilities. We are well prepared to fight for you.
Why Choose Our Santa Rosa Hit and Run Lawyer?
- Over a decade of proven criminal law experience
- 1,000s of criminal cases successfully represented
- Aggressive and dedicated legal representation
- 24/7 availability to answer your calls and provide counsel
If you would like to discuss your hit and run charges, contact us at (707) 636-3204. We're available 24/7 by phone.