Los Angeles Hit and Run Attorney

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

A minor fender-bender on Sunset Boulevard, a scratch in a Beverly Hills parking garage, or a late-night accident on the 405 can instantly change your life if you panic and leave the scene. Law enforcement in Los Angeles is especially aggressive in pursuing hit-and-run allegations, even if there’s only minor property damage and no reported injuries. From the moment a police officer knocks on your door or leaves a card on your windshield, you need a dedicated hit and run attorney who knows the procedures of L.A. courts, the details of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and the defenses that can actually convince the court to dismiss or reduce your charges. At My Rights Law, we understand the stress these cases bring and work tirelessly to reduce your exposure and protect your future.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To convict you, the prosecution must prove the following “elements of the crime” beyond a reasonable doubt as set out in CALCRIM 2150:

• You were involved in an accident that resulted in damage to someone else’s property or vehicle.
• You knew, or reasonably should have known, that such damage occurred.
• You willfully failed to stop, provide your identification, or render aid as required by law.

An experienced lawyer challenges each element, questioning whether you actually knew an accident happened, if you made reasonable efforts to exchange information, and whether the responding officer jumped to conclusions without all the facts.

California Vehicle Code § 20002 – Misdemeanor Hit and Run

Statute Summary (condensed):

“The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in property damage must immediately stop at the nearest location that won’t obstruct traffic, and upon request, must provide the name and current address of both the driver and owner.”

A failure to do so can result in up to six months in county jail, a fine of $1,000, and payment of restitution. In Los Angeles, the District Attorney frequently seeks full repayment for all repair and towing expenses as part of the penalty.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): No injuries – property damage only
• VC 20001 (Felony): Any injury or fatality involved

Maximum Custody

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): 6 months in county jail
• VC 20001 (Felony): Up to 4 years in state prison (more if injury is serious)

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Property repairs
• VC 20001 (Felony): Medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction in Los Angeles can result in:

• Up to six months in an L.A. County jail facility.
• Fines as high as $1,000, plus substantial penalty assessments.
• Three years of informal probation, which often includes community service, possible DUI education if intoxication is alleged, and proof of SR-22 insurance.
• Responsibility for all repair and towing costs to any damaged property.
• Two points on your DMV record, which may trigger insurance premium increases or even a suspended license if you have prior violations.

With an aggressive defense, many first-offense clients are able to avoid jail entirely by pursuing a civil compromise, diversion program, or by having their case reduced to a minor infraction, effectively eliminating the threat of a permanent criminal record.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our accomplished Los Angeles legal defense team has a long track record of getting hit and run charges dismissed or reduced. Here are some effective strategies:

• Lack of Knowledge – You genuinely didn’t know your car made contact. For example, a gentle tap on a truck’s bumper may not create a sound or sensation. We use accident-reconstruction experts and vehicle analysis to support your story.
• No Actual Damage – Hit and run laws only apply if property was really damaged. We challenge inflated repair bills, pre-existing scratches, or exaggerated claims with photos and expert body shop reports.
• Stopped and Tried to Exchange Info – Sometimes you pull over, but the other driver flees or refuses to talk. Cellphone records and dash-cam footage can show your good faith efforts.
• Couldn’t Find the Owner – The law allows you to leave a note with your contact details if you hit unattended property. We show you followed all legal steps.
• Emergency Excuse – If you left the scene due to a medical emergency, safety threat, or because law enforcement told you to, this can excuse your actions.
• Mistaken Identity – Police sometimes get the wrong person due to plate errors, vehicle theft, or ride-share confusion. We investigate every possibility, including surveillance footage and ride logs.
• Unlawful Police Action – If you were coerced into making statements without being properly advised of your rights, or were illegally detained, we move to have this evidence thrown out.

We never rely on cookie-cutter defenses. Every case is unique, and our lawyers highlight your clean record, insurance status, and efforts to make things right to negotiate the best possible outcome for you.

Contact Our Los Angeles Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

Acting quickly can be the difference between a conviction and a clean record. The longer you delay, the harder it is to collect critical evidence like security footage, eyewitness statements, and repair estimates. Our Los Angeles hit and run attorneys provide an immediate, no-obligation consultation by phone at (213) 577-1988. We will:

• Carefully review police reports for weaknesses.
• Contact the alleged victim to work toward a civil compromise or settlement.
• Negotiate for a reduction or dismissal of your charges where possible.
• Raise factual innocence, procedural violations, or any errors in the investigation to defend your case.

With years of experience handling both simple property damage cases and complex injury prosecutions, our attorneys know the ins and outs of Los Angeles courts, DMV hearings, and insurance law. Whether you’re dealing with a minor scrape or a major investigation, we are ready to protect your license, your finances, and your future.

Don’t leave your case to chance. Call us now at (213) 577-1988 for a free consultation and take the first step toward a strong defense and peace of mind. Our team is committed to turning a stressful moment into a manageable solution and helping you move forward with confidence.