Hit and Run Lawyer in Northridge

Facing Hit and Run Charges in Northridge? We Are Ready to Fight for Your Rights

A fender-bender near Reseda Boulevard, a scrape in the Northridge Fashion Center parking lot, or a late-night collision on the 118 Freeway can quickly disrupt your life if you make the mistake of leaving the scene. Law enforcement in Northridge and all across the San Fernando Valley takes hit-and-run incidents seriously and frequently files charges even when no injuries are reported and the property damage is minor. The moment you receive a notice from the police or find an officer at your door, it’s crucial to call a hit-and-run defense lawyer who is experienced with the Northridge court system, knows the ins and outs of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and can raise real defenses that get cases reduced or dismissed. At My Rights Law, we’re committed to fighting for your best outcome, every step of the way.

Ready to speak with a Northridge hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To obtain a conviction, prosecutors must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, the following “elements of the crime” as defined in CALCRIM 2150:

• You were involved in an accident that caused damage to another person’s property or vehicle.
• You knew, or reasonably should have known, that damage occurred.
• You willfully failed to stop, share identifying information, and provide assistance if necessary.

A knowledgeable attorney can challenge each of these elements—questioning whether you were aware of any impact, whether you made a reasonable effort to exchange details, and whether the investigation overlooked key facts in your favor.

California Vehicle Code § 20002 – Misdemeanor Hit and Run

Language of the statute (condensed):

“The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting solely in damage to property shall immediately stop at the nearest safe location and shall, upon request, supply the name and current residence address of the driver and owner.”

Failing to do so is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and restitution. Here in Northridge, prosecutors almost always pursue repayment for towing, repair, and any associated costs.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): None – property damage only
• VC 20001 (Felony): Any bodily injury or fatality

Maximum Custody

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): 6 months in county jail
• VC 20001 (Felony): 4 years in state prison (or longer for serious injury)

Driver’s License Impact

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): 2 DMV points; possible suspension
• VC 20001 (Felony): Mandatory suspension; possible revocation

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Property repair costs
• VC 20001 (Felony): Medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering

Probation

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Informal probation, up to 3 years
• VC 20001 (Felony): Formal probation, with strict conditions

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction in Northridge can lead to serious consequences:

• Up to six months in the West Valley Detention Center.
• A fine up to $1,000, plus substantial penalty assessments.
• Three years of informal probation, often including community service, drug/alcohol education if impairment is alleged, and SR-22 insurance requirements.
• Civil responsibility for all property damages and towing fees.
• Two points on your DMV record, which can cause insurance premiums to spike and even risk a license suspension if your record is not clean.

With experienced defense counsel negotiating on your behalf, many first-time drivers in Northridge avoid jail time entirely through civil compromises, diversion programs, or a “parking lot courtesy” reduction that keeps your record clear.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our highly skilled defense team at My Rights Law has successfully defended countless Northridge residents against hit-and-run charges. Here are some of the strategies we employ:

• Lack of Knowledge – You genuinely had no idea contact was made. Sometimes a minor tap on a high-bumper SUV isn’t felt or heard inside the car. We work with accident reconstructionists and technical experts to prove reasonable lack of awareness.
• No Actual Damage – The law only applies if property was damaged. If the “damage” was already there or exaggerated by the other party, we use photos and repair records to refute the claim.
• Stopped and Tried to Exchange Info – Some drivers attempt to stop, but the other car flees or refuses contact. We use cell data, dash cam footage, and eyewitness accounts to prove you met your legal obligations.
• Unable to Locate Property Owner – If the owner isn’t present, the law allows you to leave a written note with your contact information. We show that you acted in good faith and complied with requirements.
• Emergency Circumstances – Medical emergencies, immediate safety threats, or police instructions can justify leaving temporarily. We gather documentation and witness statements to support your actions.
• Mistaken Identity – Mistakes happen, such as license plate mix-ups or cases involving stolen vehicles or ride-share confusion. We obtain video footage, dispatch records, and witness testimony to uncover the truth.
• Unlawful Police Conduct – If law enforcement violated your rights, such as by coercing a confession or stopping you without cause, we file motions to suppress evidence, often resulting in dismissal.

Our approach is always tailored to your situation. We highlight clean records, valid insurance, and your willingness to make amends—turning prosecutors into partners in finding a fair outcome.

Contact Our Northridge Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

Delaying action only makes it harder to find dash-cam footage, witnesses, or critical paperwork that could prove your innocence. Our Northridge hit and run defense team offers a free, confidential consultation over the phone at (747) 249 5077. When you contact us, we will:

• Analyze police reports for mistakes or inconsistencies.
• Reach out to the alleged victim to try to negotiate a civil settlement.
• Negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction to a no-point infraction.
• Argue for dismissal based on actual innocence or rights violations.

We have years of experience handling everything from simple property damage cases to complex accidents involving injuries under VC 20001. Our lawyers know how to navigate the DMV, insurance companies, and the criminal courts to protect your license, finances, and future.

Don’t risk a permanent mark on your record. Call us today at (747) 249 5077 to schedule your free consultation. Let an aggressive Northridge hit and run lawyer help you take control of your case and your future. The right legal strategy can turn fear into confidence and get you back on track.

Ready to speak with a Northridge hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.