If you’ve been involved in a hit and run in California, it’s critical to understand the seriousness of the charges and the potential consequences you could face. As one of the most common types of accidents in Southern California, hit and run incidents can carry heavy penalties, especially if charges escalate to a felony. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of hiring an experienced hit and run lawyer in Orange County, CA, the charges you may face, and what steps to take if you find yourself arrested.
Why Hiring a Hit and Run Attorney in Orange County Matters
Being involved in a hit and run is a stressful experience, and the legal process that follows can be complicated. A skilled hit and run lawyer in Orange County can help protect your rights, navigate the legal process, and potentially reduce or even dismiss the charges you face. Hiring a lawyer with experience in hit and run cases is crucial, as they can quickly analyze the situation, collect evidence, and create a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.
Hit and Run Charges We Handle
At Shouse Law Group, we handle a wide range of hit and run charges, including:
- Property Damage Hit and Run (Vehicle Code 20002): This is the most common type of hit and run and typically involves only property damage (e.g., hitting a parked car). It’s a misdemeanor, but it can still carry significant penalties.
- Injury Hit and Run (Vehicle Code 20001): If the accident involves injuries, it could lead to felony charges. This includes situations where you cause bodily harm to another driver or pedestrian and flee the scene.
Both charges require you to stop at the scene and provide your insurance and contact details. Failure to do so could result in severe legal consequences.
Understanding Hit and Run Laws in California
In California, a hit and run is defined under the Vehicle Code 20002 and Vehicle Code 20001. These laws outline your legal responsibilities after an accident:
- Property Damage Hit and Run: If you cause damage to another vehicle or property, you are required to stop and provide your name, insurance information, and contact details to the other party.
- Injury Hit and Run: If you cause bodily injury to another person, you must stop, provide your details, and render aid if necessary. Leaving the scene can result in felony charges.
Even if you do not believe there is any damage or injury, you are still required to fulfill your legal obligations. Failing to do so can lead to serious consequences.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Orange County, California
Penalties for a hit and run in California vary depending on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony:
- Misdemeanor Hit and Run (Property Damage): This can result in up to 180 days in county jail, along with fines and probation. However, many offenders do not serve jail time for misdemeanor charges.
- Felony Hit and Run (Injury): If you cause injury or death in a hit and run, you could face felony charges with penalties including state prison time. This can range from two to four years in prison, depending on the severity of the injury and other factors such as prior criminal history.
Additional Consequences
In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction for hit and run may result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license and an increased insurance premium.
What to Do After a Hit and Run Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for a hit and run, it’s important to remain calm and take the following steps:
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Do not make any statements to the police. Anything you say could be used against you in court.
- Contact a Skilled Hit and Run Lawyer: Speak to an experienced hit and run attorney as soon as possible. They will guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
- Document the Incident: If possible, take pictures of your vehicle and the scene. This can help preserve evidence that may be crucial to your defense.
- Avoid Destruction of Evidence: Do not repair your car or hide any potential evidence. This could lead to further charges, such as obstruction of justice.
Our Hit and Run Defense Process
At Shouse Law Group, our defense process for hit and run charges includes:
- Client Consultation: We begin by understanding your version of the events. We gather all the details to create a solid defense strategy.
- Evidence Collection: We immediately begin investigating, including reaching out to witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and gathering other forms of evidence.
- Negotiation with Authorities: We work to prevent charges from being filed or, if prosecution is unavoidable, to reduce their severity.
- Court Representation: If necessary, we will represent you in court and fight for the best possible outcome, whether it’s dismissal, reduced charges, or a favorable plea deal.
What is the Cost of a Hit and Run Lawyer in Orange County?
The cost of hiring a hit and run lawyer in Orange County can range from $3,500 to $35,000, depending on the complexity of the case. Factors influencing the cost include the severity of the accident (property damage vs. injury or death), the number of legal issues involved, and whether your case goes to trial. However, it’s important to understand that a skilled lawyer can often reduce the overall cost by potentially avoiding jail time and minimizing the charges.
Client Stories: Real Hit and Run Case Results
Case 1: Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Hit and Run in Pomona
One of our clients, a combat veteran suffering from PTSD, was involved in a road rage incident in which he intentionally hit another vehicle, causing it to run off the road. He was charged with both assault with a deadly weapon and felony hit and run. After extensive mental health evaluations and a contested hearing, we successfully qualified him for mental health diversion. This resulted in the charges being dismissed, allowing him to avoid jail time and keep his job.
Case 2: Misdemeanor Battery and Hit and Run in Bellflower
In another case, our client was accused of misdemeanor battery on a security guard at a movie theater and leaving the scene of the accident. By obtaining critical surveillance footage, we demonstrated that our client was actually the victim of an assault by the security guard. As a result, the charges against our client were dismissed, and the security guard was charged instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I be guilty of a hit and run if I’m not at fault for the accident?
Yes, you can be guilty of a hit and run if you fail to stop and exchange information, even if you weren’t at fault for the accident. The law requires all drivers to provide their details regardless of fault.
What should I do if I didn’t realize I hit something?
If you realize you’ve hit something but didn’t see any visible damage, you are still required to stop and exchange information. Document your efforts to do so in case of any future dispute.
Can I avoid jail time for a misdemeanor hit and run?
Yes, many individuals charged with misdemeanor hit and run do not serve jail time. You may be eligible for diversion programs, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Contact A Hit and Run Lawyer Near You in Orange County Today
If you’ve been arrested for a hit and run or are under investigation in Orange County, it’s crucial to act quickly. The experienced hit and run lawyers at Shouse Law Group are here to help you navigate this difficult situation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and begin building your defense.
Shouse Law Group
333 City Blvd W Ste 1750
Orange, CA 92868
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: (714) 288-9455
“I had an amazing experience with Karthik Krishnan representation for my court case. I was stuck with a bad hand one night, hanging out with bad people. trusting to leave my property in someone else’s hand. Got me in a bad situation with law enforcement officers while we got pulled over later that night. Luckily I contact Karthik Krishnan and his law firm. And he was able to get my charges dismissed!!! They way he communicated with me throughout the whole process and made me feel comfortable to trust his work was all I needed to feel safe. If you guys need representation with a professional lawyer I suggest contacting Karthik Krishnan as his service where top tier!”