San Bernardino Hit and Run Lawyer

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

A low-speed collision on Hospitality Lane, a parking lot bump at Inland Center, or a late-night incident on the 215 can quickly spiral out of control if you leave the scene in fear or confusion. San Bernardino prosecutors, along with law enforcement across the county, are especially aggressive about pursuing hit-and-run cases, even when injuries are not reported and the property damage appears minor. The minute you receive a notice from the police or see a citation on your car, you need a lawyer with local knowledge—one who understands the court system, California Vehicle Code § 20002, and how to convince prosecutors or judges to reduce or even dismiss your charges. My Rights Law is here to protect your future and fight for the best outcome possible.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To secure a conviction, the prosecution must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, the “elements of the crime” as stated in CALCRIM 2150:

• You were involved in an accident that caused damage to someone else’s property or vehicle.
• You knew, or should reasonably have known, about the damage caused.
• You willfully failed to stop, provide your identifying information, and offer assistance if required.

An experienced defense attorney challenges these points—questioning whether you truly knew an accident happened, if you made a genuine attempt to exchange information, and whether law enforcement misinterpreted the facts or made assumptions.

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.”

Failure to comply can lead to up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and mandatory restitution. In San Bernardino, prosecutors routinely seek repayment for any towing or repair expenses tied to the incident.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

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

Maximum Custody

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

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

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

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction in San Bernardino brings the following risks:

• Up to six months in the West Valley Detention Center.
• A fine as high as $1,000, with additional penalty assessments.
• Three years of informal probation, often with mandatory community service, SR-22 insurance, and DUI classes if impairment is alleged.
• Civil liability for property damage and towing costs.
• Two points on your DMV record, potentially raising insurance rates and risking a license suspension if you already have infractions.

With an effective criminal defense lawyer, many first-time defendants avoid jail by negotiating a civil compromise, diversion program, or even a downgrade to a non-criminal “courtesy” infraction. My Rights Law specializes in fighting for the best possible result in every case.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our experienced legal team has successfully defended hundreds of hit-and-run cases across San Bernardino. Here are some proven defense strategies:

• Lack of Knowledge – You genuinely didn’t realize a collision occurred. Minor contact, especially with larger vehicles, is often imperceptible. We can present expert accident reconstruction and vehicle data to support your position.
• No Property Damage – The law only applies if something was actually damaged. If scratches or dents were pre-existing, or claims are exaggerated, we use photographic evidence and repair reports to discredit the prosecution.
• Stopped and Exchanged Information – If you stopped and tried to share your details but the other driver left, or there was confusion, we use cell records and surveillance to show you fulfilled your duty.
• Unable to Locate Owner – If the other property was unattended, leaving a note with your information is legal. We demonstrate your intent to comply with the law.
• Emergency Departure – If you left due to a medical emergency, threat, or at an officer’s direction, you may have a valid legal excuse.
• Mistaken Identity – Sometimes police or witnesses make mistakes about the driver or vehicle involved. We gather surveillance, subpoena records, and use expert testimony to clear your name.
• Illegal Stop or Statement – If law enforcement violated your rights, we challenge any statements or evidence, often leading to case dismissal.

Each defense is customized to your unique facts. We highlight your clean background, insurance status, and cooperation, giving prosecutors a reason to settle or drop the charges entirely.

Contact Our San Bernardino Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

Every moment you wait makes it harder to recover crucial dash-cam videos, witness accounts, or repair invoices that can prove your innocence. Our San Bernardino legal team offers an immediate, confidential consultation by phone at (909) 639-2551. We will:

• Analyze police reports for errors and inconsistencies.
• Contact the alleged victim to seek a civil settlement.
• Negotiate with the court for charge reductions or dismissal.
• Assert your rights and expose any violations by law enforcement.

We have deep experience with both misdemeanor VC 20002 charges and serious injury or death allegations under VC 20001. From minor fender-benders to complex multi-vehicle cases, our attorneys know the procedures, insurance issues, and strategies to protect your driving record and finances.

Don’t risk your reputation or your future. Call our San Bernardino office now at (909) 639-2551 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you turn fear and confusion into a smart, proactive defense that gives you the best chance to move forward.