Have you been accused of causing a collision and leaving the scene preemptively? Hit-and-run charges can feel like a lot to take in, especially because they carry serious consequences—from hefty fines to jail time and more.
No matter if you left in a moment of panic, due to a misunderstanding, or because you did not realize a crash happened in the first place, these charges can be overwhelming. However, if you’re facing allegations, you’re not alone—let a Fullerton car accident lawyer help.
At Simmrin Law Group, we know that a strong legal defense can make all the difference, and we want to represent you as your Fullerton hit and run lawyer. We have decades of experience, and our attorneys have helped thousands of clients over the past 20 years and counting.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Laws in California
In the state of California, all drivers who were involved in a collision that resulted in property damage are required by law to stop at the scene of the crash. From there, they must give their name, address, and vehicle registration number to other parties involved in the accident.
If law enforcement is present, they will gather this information as well. However, if you fail to abide by this hit-and-run law, you could be charged with a misdemeanor as a result. In cases where the collision results in fatalities, you could be on the receiving end of a felony instead.
No matter which type of hit-and-run charge you are facing, we advise you to reach out to a Fullerton personal injury lawyer with experience representing people in your position. The sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner you can receive legal advice specific to your case.
For a free legal consultation with a hit and run accident lawyer serving Fullerton, call (310) 896-2723
Penalties for Hit-and-Run Offenses
The penalties for hit-and-run offenses in California vary. This means your consequences will depend on the circumstances involved in your case.
That said, in many cases, when the incident only results in property damage and nothing greater, the offense is often charged as a misdemeanor. Convictions for misdemeanor hit-and-run charges carry the following penalties:
- Up to one year in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000 or more
- Restitution paid to the property owner
- Points added to your record as the driver
- Possible suspension of your driver’s license
In contrast, a hit-and-run that causes bodily injury or death is typically classified as a felony. These cases are treated much more severely due to the nature of the harm that was inflicted. A felony conviction may coincide with the following penalties:
- Up to four years in a California state prison
- Fines up to $10,000 or more
- Mandatory restitution paid to injured parties or families of victims
- Probation or parole after fulfilling the incarceration term
- A permanent criminal record
Fullerton Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Defenses Against Hit-and-Run Charges
Defending against hit-and-run charges requires a strong defense and legal strategy built around the specific facts of your situation. These charges can impose serious consequences on your life in many ways, so it’s important to hire a Fullerton hit and run attorney you can trust.
Your legal counsel will work toward a favorable outcome in your case while advocating for your rights and protecting the presumption of innocence unless proven otherwise. They will argue in your favor after examining all aspects of the incident.
There are a number of different defenses your hit and run lawyer in Fullerton can present in your case, including the following:
- Lack of knowledge
- Involuntary departure
- Mistaken identity
Your lawyer might strive for reduced charges, and in some cases, a dismissal might be possible. Either way, let’s take a closer look at these defense strategies and what they mean.
Lack of Knowledge
One common defense is a lack of knowledge, where the driver argues they were unaware that a collision occurred. This defense may apply in minor incidents where the driver didn’t feel an impact or believed the damage was negligible.
Involuntary Departure
Another potential defense is involuntary departure, where the driver left the scene due to legitimate fear for their safety or because they were physically incapacitated, such as in a medical emergency.
In such cases, an attorney might present evidence of threats, injuries, or panic that justified the driver’s decision to leave temporarily. Courts may consider the driver’s intention to return or contact authorities as a mitigating factor.
Mistaken Identity
A third defense is mistaken identity, where the driver was wrongly identified as the one who fled the scene. Surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, or vehicle registration errors can sometimes lead to false accusations.
Effective legal representation can challenge unreliable evidence and present alibis, alternate suspects, or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
Click to contact our Fullerton Car Accident Lawyers today
Reach Out to Our Hit and Run Law Firm in Fullerton for Criminal Defense Attorneys You Can Trust
If you’ve been accused of a hit and run, you’re likely facing a whirlwind of emotions—fear, confusion, and panic are common responses to allegations like these. Your situation might feel isolating and overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through all of this on your own.
Instead, turn to Simmrin Law Group for legal representation. Our Fullerton criminal defense attorneys understand how high the stakes are in your hit and run cases. That’s why we offer to protect your rights, challenge the charges against you, and fight for a favorable outcome.
Don’t wait to get the support you need—we’re ready and willing to advocate for you. The sooner you reach out to our Fullerton hit and run law firm, the sooner we can start working on your case, building a defense strategy on your behalf, and helping you move forward.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form