Fleeing the scene of a car accident, more commonly known as a hit and run, is a crime. If you are involved in an accident and you don’t stay to exchange information and help any injured person, then you may be facing charges. In California, it’s illegal to leave any accident or collision, no matter who was at fault, how serious the injuries were, or how serious the property damage was.
A hit and run charge can result in either felony or misdemeanor charges. If you’re facing either – or you have reason to believe you may in the future – then you should contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for your free case evaluation right away.
Potential penalties for hit and run
The penalty will of course vary based on the specifics of the crime. However, if the hit and run involved only property damage, then it will likely be charged as a misdemeanor. This charge could come with a penalty of up to 180 days in jail, three years probation, and significant fines.
In the event that the hit and run led to an injury, it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. It all depends on how serious the injuries were. In this case, a misdemeanor charge of hit and run with injury can come with a jail sentence of up to a year, three years of probation, and bigger fines. In the event of a felony conviction, the convicted could face up to four years in prison, fines as high as $10,000, restitution, and permanent loss of their driver’s license. As you can see, it’s essential to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Those aren’t the only penalties
The above covers the penalties that the California courts can subject you too. However, there are other penalties. You may see your insurance premiums go sky high or be cancelled altogether. At a minimum, you’ll get two points on your driving record, you could be facing an additional civil lawsuit by the victim, which could result in you personally paying what isn’t covered by your insurance company, or you could be sued by any passenger in your car if you’re found at fault.
Don’t talk to the police without first talking to us
You have rights in the state of California and one of those rights is to remain silent. We encourage you to do that until you’ve spoken to us. Depending on your situation, the best way to defend you may involve proving that you weren’t the one involved in the accident, that you left because you needed immediate medical attention, or that you were in shock after the accident.
If there’s a lot of evidence that you’re guilty then we may work for a plea bargain that includes a less significant sentence. No matter what your situation is, you must speak to us before you speak to a police officer – or anyone else. Call 714-760-4088 right now for your free case evaluation.
