After an accident which led to property damage and/or personal injury has occurred, drivers are required to take certain actions. They must identify themselves to other parties involved, provide information to any traffic or police officer on the scene, provide assistance to any injured persons, and report the accident to the police if a death has occurred as a result of the accident (see Vehicle Codes 20003 and 20004.) If these requirements are not met, the driver may be charged with hit and run.
In the State of California, there are two types of hit and run offenses. Misdemeanor hit and run refers to accidents which involve only damage to property. Vehicle Code 20002 applies to such accidents. If you fail to comply with the requirements outlined above, you are subject to imprisonment in county jail not exceeding six months and/or a fine of up to $1000 plus a penalty assessment.
Felony hit-and-run refers to accidents involving injury or death. Vehicle Code 20001 applies to this type of accident. Penalties for felony hit and run differ based on the nature of the accident. If injury is involved, but not death or permanent injury, the hit and run offender is subject to imprisonment in state prison or county jail for up to one year, and/or a fine of between $1,000 and $10,000 plus a penalty assessment. If death or permanent injury occurs as a result of the accident, the hit-and-run offender is subject to imprisonment for a period between 90 days and five years, and/or a fine between $1,000 and $10,000.
Hit and run is a serious offense, and not something that should be faced without representation. Our experienced traffic ticket attorneys can provide you with the help that you need. Call or contact us today for your free consultation.
