What is a Hit and Run?
A Hit and Run (VC 20002) occurs when one or more parties fails to stop after a car accident or other collision to exchange required information. You must stop regardless of if the accident is with a pedestrian, moving vehicle, parked vehicle, or private/public property.
What Must I Exchange?
After an accident you must exchange the following with another driver:
- Name
- License number
- Vehicle identification number
- Insurance carrier’s name and address
- Insurance policy number
What if the Accident Wasn’t My Fault?
Even if the accident was not your fault, you must still stop and exchange the required information. If you do not, you can still be charged with a crime.
Penalties
A Hit and Run may be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the circumstances of the accident. Usually, Hit and Run’s are charged as misdemeanors as long as the accident did not result in physical injury.
However, when a Hit and Run results in serious bodily injury or death, defendants may be charged with a felony. If convicted of a felony, an individual may face several years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and license suspension.
Free Consultation
To speak with a Woodland Hills Criminal Attorney for a FREE consultation contact our office at 818-334-5711.
