Explaining Hit and Run in California

Hit and run in California refers to when a driver of an automobile is involved in an accident and "flees" the scene without exchanging the necessary information. Hit and run does not only refer to hitting another vehicle, it can involve colliding into an inanimate object, a parked car, a pedestrian, a bicyclist, a motorcyclist and another vehicle. When a person is involved in any sort of a motor vehicle accident, they are required by law to do the following:

• Stop or pull over
• First check if anybody was injured
• If someone was injured, call an ambulance
• Call the California Highway Patrol
• Exchange identifying information such as name, address, phone number, driver's license number, insurance and registration if the other driver asks for it
• If the vehicle or property owner is not present, you are required to leave a note with your identifying information

Hit and Run Penalties

In California, there are two types of hit and run offenses. They are misdemeanor and felony. The primary difference between a misdemeanor hit and run and a felony hit and run depends on whether or not there was property damage and personal injury. Misdemeanor hit and run involves property damage (this is not limited to property damage to a vehicle), whereas felony hit and run involves bodily injury. If you are convicted of misdemeanor hit and run, you face up to six months in county jail and $1,000 in fines plus court penalties and victim restitution. If you are convicted of felony hit and run, you are facing up to three years in state prison.

In addition, if DUI was involved in the accident, enhanced penalties will apply. If you or someone you care about has been charged with hit and run in Santa Ana or the surrounding areas, a Santa Ana attorney from the Thomas Tears, Attorney at Law can help. We have helped clients in your situation receive a reduction in the hit and run charges filed against them.

Don't hesitate to contact a Santa Ana Hit and Run Lawyer from our firm today for a free case evaluation if you are facing hit and run charges.