Law Office of Michael L. Fell
900 Roosevelt Irvine, CA 92620
(949) 585-9055

Get Answers from a Criminal Defense Attorney About Charges of Hit and Run in CaliforniaAccording to the California Highway Patrol, around 30,000 hit-and-run car accidents occur each year. Being accused with this crime can drastically alter one's life. Read on for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about hit-and-run accidents, and then call Law Office of Michael L. Fell for a legal consultation at (949) 585-9055.

Is it still considered a hit and run accident if I'm not at fault?

It makes little difference who was at fault or accountable for a car accident if the case is a hit and run. Whether or not you are legally responsible, you must remain at the scene to offer proof of financial responsibility.

Is it still considered a hit and run if there isn't much damage?

Even a minor collision or fender bender can result in hit and run charges, however these are misdemeanors rather than felonies. It doesn't matter whether you just chipped a small piece of paint or scratched a small area; any damage is harm.

If I'm guilty of a hit-and-run, would I lose my license?

It's possible. Hit and run instances in California are tried under two statutes. Which statute they charge you with determines whether or not your license will be suspended. If you're charged under Vehicle Code 20002, which covers accidents involving property damage but no injuries, the charge is a misdemeanor with no license suspension.

If you were engaged in a hit-and-run accident that resulted in an injury and you were charged with a Vehicle Code 20001, you could face felony charges. Even if the charge is simply a misdemeanor, the code violation will result in a license suspension.

Misdemeanor hit and run convictions result in two DMV driving points. As a result, if those two points added up to enough for a DMV Negligent Operator Suspension, you might lose your license.

If I'm in a hit-and-run accident, would my insurance company pay for the damages?

Even if you fled the scene, your insurance company is likely to be found liable for the harm you caused. However, if you have a prior DUI conviction, your insurance carrier may invoke a clause that limits you coverage in particular circumstances involving DUI hit and run.

If I'm suspected of a hit-and-run, do I have to talk to the cops?

Yes, but do not do so without a criminal defense attorney present. It's always better to seek legal advice before speaking to the police, whether you were driving or not, whether you left the scene or not. To schedule a free legal consultation, call Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 now.