Hit-And-Run Defense San Diego
Drivers involved in accidents are legally required to stop, provide reasonable assistance, and exchange contact information with the other party. In the moment though, fear, uncertainty, inexperience, or other reasons can lead to a driver leaving the scene of the accident. Hit-and-run crimes in California are taken seriously. If convicted on the charges, you will likely face significant consequences that could impact you in multiple ways for the rest of your life.
S&B Legal specializes in criminal defense, including hit-and-run defense. Our experienced attorneys understand California’s criminal laws and legal framework, we know what rights criminal defendants are entitled to under the law, and we advocate tirelessly for clients’ best interests.
Felony Hit-and-Run
If someone suffers bodily injury as the result of an accident in which one party fled the scene, the fleeing driver will likely face felony hit-and-run charges. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 provides that a driver who fails to stop, render reasonable assistance, exchange contact information, and notify law enforcement can be charged with a felony — even if they were not responsible for the accident.
Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run
When a hit-and-run accident involves only property damage, it is typically classified as a misdemeanor. To be convicted of a misdemeanor hit-and-run crime, the prosecution must show that you were involved, and that you knew (or should have known) that property was damaged in the accident. California Vehicle Code Section 20002 addresses misdemeanor hit-and-run crimes.
Accidents Resulting in Injury or Death
Drivers involved in hit-and-run accidents resulting in injuries may face either misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the facts and circumstances. If someone died as the result of a hit-and-run incident, the fleeing driver will likely be charged with a felony, which carries more severe penalties for those convicted.
Accidents Resulting in Property Damage
Penalties for hit-and-run accidents that involve property damage (but no injuries) can be significant — even if the accident was not your fault. If convicted on misdemeanor hit-and-run charges, you could face up to six months behind bars, monetary fines of up to $1,000, probation, and the potential loss of your driving privileges. In addition, you could also be ordered to pay restitution and fees to the party whose property was damaged in the accident.
Penalties for a Hit-and-Run in San Diego
The potential penalties for felony hit-and-run convictions are even higher. A conviction can come with up to four years in prison, fines of up to $10,000, restitution payments to the injured party, parole or probation, and the suspension of your driving privileges.
In addition to criminal penalties, hit-and-run defendants may also face civil personal injury lawsuits brought by victims seeking to recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages.
Hit-and-Run Defense — Why Having a Good Defense Team Is Important
Hiring a qualified hit-and-run lawyer can provide valuable peace of mind if you are facing hit-and-run charges. Your attorney will work on your behalf to build a strong defense to the charges. In addition to questioning evidence and presenting mitigating circumstances, your hit & run lawyer will assert all available defenses.
Based on the facts, your attorney may be successful in arguing that there was no property damage, that your vehicle was under someone else’s control at the time of the accident, that you were unaware of any property damage or injuries, or even that you were unaware that an accident had occurred.
Choosing a knowledgeable, experienced criminal defense attorney could impact the outcome of your case, leading to charges being lowered or dropped, or to your acquittal.
About the Lawyers
When you retain S&B Legal to defend you against criminal charges, you can be confident your case is in experienced, capable hands.
Lisbette J. Baltazar holds a law degree from California Western School of Law and an undergraduate degree in Political Science from California State University, San Marcos. With experience handling a variety of legal matters, Ms. Baltazar focuses on hit-and-run and other criminal defense matters. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Ms. Baltazar has received peer recognition for her commitment to success.
Joanne P. Sanchez also has a track record of success in a variety of criminal defense cases, including hit-and-run charges. Ms. Sanchez worked as a senior paralegal after earning an undergraduate degree from UC Santa Barbara, with a double major in Law and Society and Sociology. She then earned a law degree from California Western School of Law. As a partner with S&B Legal, Ms. Sanchez is committed to going above and beyond to help criminal defendants and has received peer recognition for her work.
Let S&B Legal Help Protect Your Rights
If you are facing hit-and-run charges, there is simply too much at stake to leave your defense to chance. Schedule your free case evaluation with a hit-and-run attorney from S&B Legal today. We will help you understand your rights and options, so you can make more informed decisions and proceed with confidence. Still have questions? Call us at (760) 302-4652.
