Being accused of hit and run can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially when you’re unsure what steps to take next. Whether you left the scene unknowingly, misunderstood your legal obligations, or are facing a false accusation, California law treats these matters seriously. You could face steep penalties, including jail time, a criminal record, and license suspension, even if there was only property damage. At Crowell Law Offices, we provide aggressive and compassionate legal representation for individuals facing hit and run charges in Sacramento and throughout California.
If you or someone you care about is navigating a hit and run accusation, taking immediate action is crucial. The decisions you make early on can determine the outcome of your case, and securing the right legal counsel can make all the difference.
Understanding a Hit and Run Under California Law
California law defines hit and run as leaving the scene of an accident without properly identifying yourself to the other party involved. This includes situations involving both property damage and physical injury. If you were involved in a collision and did not stop, exchange insurance information, or wait until the police arrive, you could face criminal charges, even if you were not at fault for the accident.
The penalties vary depending on whether the accident involved only property damage or resulted in serious injuries or death. A misdemeanor hit and run typically applies to accidents involving damage to vehicles or property, while felony hit and run charges may apply if someone sustained serious injuries or died as a result of the collision. California Vehicle Code sections 20001 and 20002 govern these offenses, and both carry potential consequences that can follow you for years.
What Happens After You’re Accused of Hit and Run
Once you’re accused of leaving the scene of an accident, you may be contacted by the police, your insurance company, or even the alleged victim’s legal counsel. It’s essential to understand that anything you say can be used against you later. Statements made without an attorney present, even if intended to clear things up, can lead to self incrimination and hurt your defense.
Law enforcement may investigate your vehicle for evidence of impact or paint transfer, request interviews, or issue a notice to appear in court. You may also be facing pressure from an insurance company to provide a statement or resolve a property damage claim. While cooperating with authorities and insurers may seem like the right thing to do, doing so without legal representation puts you at risk.
If you’re dealing with hit and run allegations in Sacramento, consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately can give you the best chance of protecting your legal rights and preparing for the legal process ahead.
The Potential Consequences of a Hit and Run Conviction
A hit and run conviction, whether for property damage or bodily injury, can carry significant consequences. You could face jail time, community service, license suspension, and hefty fines. In addition to court-imposed penalties, you may suffer from long-term consequences like a damaged driving record, increased insurance premiums, and a permanent criminal record. If the accident involved serious injuries, you could be facing felony charges with even harsher penalties.
The social stigma of being labeled as someone who fled the scene of an accident can also impact your employment, relationships, and standing in your community. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony hit and run charge, the stakes are high. A criminal record can follow you for life, and even a seemingly minor incident involving only property damage can spiral into a complex legal battle without the right legal defenses in place.
Why You Should Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
Legal defenses to hit and run cases are often highly fact-specific. You may have left the scene unintentionally or believed there was no damage. In some situations, drivers may be falsely accused of being involved in an accident when they weren’t even at the scene. There are also instances where the other party was aggressive or threatening, making it unsafe to remain. These are all critical details that can support your defense.
A skilled attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, challenge weak points in the prosecution’s argument, and work to reduce or dismiss charges. They will also ensure your legal rights are protected during every phase of the legal process. From analyzing surveillance footage to reviewing police reports and insurance documents, your defense will depend on presenting a clear and compelling case.
Crowell Law Offices has extensive experience defending clients facing hit and run charges in Sacramento and surrounding areas. Our criminal defense team understands how to navigate these complex situations and works to secure the best possible outcome for each client. Whether the case involves serious injuries, wrongful accusations, or run offenses based on misunderstandings, we provide personalized legal counsel focused on results.
Legal Strategies for Handling a Hit and Run Case
There are several defenses that your attorney might pursue depending on the specific facts of your case. For instance, if you were unaware that an accident occurred or believed there was only damage to your own vehicle, this may affect the outcome. Other possible defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or an emergency that made it unsafe to remain at the scene.
In some cases, negotiating with the prosecutor for a reduction in charges or a diversion program can help you avoid a conviction altogether. These outcomes are often available to first-time offenders, especially if the incident did not involve serious injuries or reckless conduct. In other cases, preparing for trial may be the best course of action. Your legal team may challenge the credibility of the other driver, argue that no accident occurred, or present evidence contradicting the timeline reported by witnesses or police.
Understanding your legal obligations and the potential consequences of a hit and run accusation can empower you to make informed decisions. With a strong defense and a proactive legal strategy, it is possible to avoid the harsh penalties that come with a conviction.
What If You Were Falsely Accused?
Being falsely accused of a hit and run is more common than many people realize. Sometimes an individual may misidentify a vehicle, or a driver involved in another incident may try to shift blame to avoid their own liability. If you are the subject of a false accusation, it’s critical to gather evidence immediately. Surveillance footage, GPS records, witness statements, and repair invoices can all be used to disprove your involvement.
False accusations can arise in cases involving parked cars, paint transfer with no visible damage, or situations where someone reports a hit and run to avoid taking responsibility for their own role in the accident. A strong legal defense includes challenging the prosecution’s evidence and proving you were not the person involved in the incident.
Your defense attorney will help you gather documentation, subpoena relevant evidence, and confront any inconsistencies in the story provided by the alleged victim or police report. If your vehicle was not at the scene or had no signs of recent impact, this could be key to clearing your name.
What to Do If You’ve Already Been Charged
If you’ve already been arrested or charged with a hit and run, you must act quickly. Do not speak with the police or the other party involved without an attorney present. Doing so could make it more difficult to mount a strong defense. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately and avoid making any public statements, social media posts, or insurance claims until you’ve received legal guidance.
An experienced lawyer will work to identify weaknesses in the case against you, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate for a resolution that minimizes the consequences you face. The earlier you involve legal counsel, the more options you will have in resolving the case favorably.
Crowell Law Offices has successfully represented clients across a wide range of hit and run cases—from simple property damage to incidents involving serious injuries. We understand the legal complexities, emotional challenges, and potential consequences of a hit and run charge. Our goal is to protect your future, clear your name, and guide you through every step of the process with professionalism and dedication.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Crowell Law Offices
Learn more about what to do if you’re accused of hit and run. Call Crowell Law Offices at (916) 303-2800 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
Hit and Run Accusation FAQs for Sacramento
What happens if I leave the scene of an accident in California?
Leaving the scene of an accident without exchanging information or helping injured individuals can lead to hit and run charges. In California, this is a criminal offense and penalties vary depending on whether there was only property damage or serious injuries involved.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run in Sacramento?
Yes, jail time is a real possibility. A misdemeanor conviction can lead to up to six months in county jail, while a felony hit and run conviction involving injury or death can result in years in state prison.
What should I do if the police contact me about a hit and run?
If the police reach out, you should remain silent until you speak with a criminal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you later in court. Politely decline to answer questions without your attorney present.
Can I be falsely accused of hit and run?
Yes. False accusations can occur, especially in cases with limited evidence. A thorough investigation by your attorney can help uncover the truth and demonstrate that you were not involved.
Will my insurance cover a hit and run accident?
Your insurance coverage may vary depending on your policy and the circumstances. However, insurance companies may increase your rates or cancel your coverage if you’re found guilty. It’s important to consult with both legal and insurance professionals.
How can a lawyer help in a hit and run case?
A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, challenge evidence, and work to reduce or dismiss charges. With the right legal strategy, you may avoid a conviction and protect your future.
