Redondo Beach Hit and Run Lawyer

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

A sudden accident along Pacific Coast Highway, a scrape in the Redondo Beach Pier parking lot, or a late-night fender-bender on Artesia Boulevard can quickly spiral out of control if you make the split-second decision to drive away from the scene. Law enforcement and prosecutors in Redondo Beach are relentless about pursuing hit-and-run charges—even when there’s only minor property damage and no injuries. If you’ve received a call from the police, found a citation on your windshield, or had an officer visit your home, it’s time to consult a dedicated hit and run lawyer who understands the local justice system, the specific requirements of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and the proven legal strategies that actually persuade judges to reduce or dismiss these cases. My Rights Law is here to defend your rights and guide you every step of the way.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

For a conviction, prosecutors must establish every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt as outlined in CALCRIM 2150:

• You were involved in a collision that resulted in damage to another person’s vehicle or property.
• You knew, or should have reasonably known, about that damage.
• You intentionally failed to stop, exchange information, or render assistance as required by law.

An experienced attorney will contest every detail—whether you truly realized an impact occurred, whether you attempted to provide your information, and whether law enforcement made unfair assumptions about your intent or actions.

California Vehicle Code § 20002 – Misdemeanor Hit and Run

Language of the statute (condensed):

“Any driver involved in an accident causing only property damage must immediately stop at the nearest safe spot and provide their name and current address, as well as that of the owner, upon request.”

Failure to comply may lead to up to six months in county jail, a fine of $1,000, and mandatory restitution. In Redondo Beach, prosecutors nearly always request reimbursement for towing and repair costs in addition to these penalties.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Only property damage
• VC 20001 (Felony): Any injury or death involved

Maximum Custody

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

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Covers property damage only
• VC 20001 (Felony): Includes medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction in Redondo Beach can result in:

• As much as six months in the local detention center.
• Fines up to $1,000 plus added court penalty assessments.
• Three years of informal probation, possibly including community service, alcohol or drug education if impairment was suspected, and SR-22 insurance requirements.
• Financial responsibility for all property damage and towing expenses.
• Two DMV points, which can lead to insurance increases or suspension of your license if you have a prior record.

When you work with an experienced defense attorney, many first-time defendants can avoid jail by negotiating for civil compromise, enrolling in diversion programs, or arguing for a “parking lot courtesy” downgrade that can eliminate criminal charges altogether.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our experienced defense lawyers at My Rights Law have successfully resolved hundreds of hit-and-run accusations in Redondo Beach. Here’s what we do that works:

• Lack of Knowledge – You didn’t know there was any contact. For example, a minor scrape on a truck’s bumper may not be felt or heard in the cabin. We work with experts to prove reasonable ignorance.
• No Actual Damage – This law only applies if there was actual damage. We scrutinize photos and repair invoices to show the damage was pre-existing or overstated by the other party.
• Stopped and Provided Information – In many cases, clients try to stop, but the other party leaves first. We use call logs and dashcam footage to demonstrate you fulfilled your legal duty.
• Owner Wasn’t Present – The law allows you to leave contact information on unattended property. Leaving a written note under the windshield wiper often meets the requirement.
• Emergency Situation – Sometimes leaving the scene is justified by a medical emergency, threat to safety, or direction from law enforcement.
• Mistaken Identity – Cases often involve license plate errors, borrowed or stolen cars, or mistaken witness reports. We track down surveillance or dispatch records to show it wasn’t you.
• Unlawful Stop or Confession – If officers violated your rights or failed to give Miranda warnings, we file motions to suppress evidence and statements.

We customize each legal defense to your unique case, emphasizing your clean record, active insurance, and good faith to persuade prosecutors to settle on favorable terms or dismiss the charges outright.

Contact Our Redondo Beach Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

Delays only make it harder to collect dash-cam videos, find witnesses, or secure repair estimates that could clear your name. My Rights Law’s Redondo Beach team offers immediate, free consultations at (562) 337-3990. We will:

• Examine police and arrest reports for errors or weaknesses.
• Communicate with the alleged victim to try for a civil settlement.
• Advocate for your charge to be dropped or reduced to a no-point traffic infraction.
• Pursue dismissal based on innocence or improper police conduct.

We have years of experience managing both routine misdemeanor VC 20002 charges and more serious VC 20001 injury cases. No matter if you’re facing allegations over a minor dent or a complicated accident, we use our knowledge of DMV, insurance, and the local courts to protect your license, your finances, and your reputation.

Don’t risk a lasting criminal record. Reach out to us now at (562) 337-3990 for your free consultation. Our aggressive defense can help you regain peace of mind and get back on the road with confidence.