Simi Valley Hit and Run Lawyer

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

A minor fender-bender on Cochran Street, a scrape in the Simi Valley Town Center parking lot, or a late-night collision on the 118 Freeway can quickly spiral out of control if panic sets in and you leave the scene. Prosecutors in Simi Valley and throughout Ventura County are known for aggressively filing hit and run charges, even if the incident resulted in minimal damage and no injuries. The moment an officer leaves a notice on your windshield or contacts you about an alleged hit and run, you need an attorney who knows the intricacies of Simi Valley court procedures, California Vehicle Code § 20002, and the defenses that actually succeed in getting cases dismissed or reduced. My Rights Law stands ready to defend you every step of the way.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To secure a conviction, prosecutors must establish every “element of the crime” beyond a reasonable doubt, as outlined 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, of this damage.
• You willfully failed to stop, provide identifying information, and offer any required assistance.

An experienced lawyer will challenge each element—questioning whether you genuinely knew of the contact, whether you made a reasonable effort to exchange information, and whether law enforcement reached premature conclusions based on limited facts.

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 may lead to up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and restitution for damages. In Simi Valley, prosecutors often push for full reimbursement of all repair and towing costs as part of any plea deal.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): No injuries—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 (potentially longer for severe injury)

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Cost of property repairs
• VC 20001 (Felony): Medical costs, lost earnings, pain, and suffering

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction in Simi Valley can mean:

• Up to six months in the Ventura County Jail.
• A fine of up to $1,000, plus additional penalty assessments.
• Up to three years of informal probation, often including community service, DUI or drug counseling if impairment was involved, and proof of SR-22 insurance.
• Civil liability for any property damage and towing charges.
• Two points on your DMV record, which may trigger higher insurance rates and possible license suspension for repeat violations.

With the right attorney advocating for you, many first-time offenders can avoid jail through diversion, a civil compromise, or a “parking lot courtesy” reduction that erases the criminal charge.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our legal team at My Rights Law has effectively defended countless hit and run cases in Simi Valley. Here are key defense strategies:

• Lack of Knowledge – You genuinely did not realize an accident occurred. A subtle nudge on an SUV bumper may produce no sensation inside the vehicle. We utilize accident reconstruction experts and vehicle telemetry to show reasonable unawareness.
• No Property Damage – If no actual damage was done, VC 20002 does not apply. Sometimes alleged “damage” is pre-existing or exaggerated, and we leverage repair shop records and photos to prove this.
• Stopped and Exchanged Information – Many drivers try to exchange information, but the other party departs or refuses. Cell phone logs and dash cam data can prove you fulfilled your legal obligation.
• Unable to Locate Owner – The law allows for leaving a visible note with your contact information if the owner isn’t present. Clear, documented efforts to notify satisfy the statute.
• Emergency Departure – Medical emergencies, personal safety threats, or following a police officer’s direction may justify a brief departure from the scene.
• Mistaken Identity – License plate confusion, stolen cars, or mistaken witness accounts can lead to wrongful accusations. We uncover evidence, such as ride-share logs or surveillance footage, to clear your name.
• Unlawful Police Procedures – If you were questioned without Miranda rights or subjected to an unlawful stop, we move to suppress the resulting statements, often resulting in case dismissal.

Our approach is always tailored to your unique circumstances. We highlight your clean record, insurance status, and proactive willingness to resolve any issues, giving prosecutors every reason to negotiate or dismiss your case.

Contact Our Simi Valley Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

Time is critical—waiting only makes it harder to secure video evidence, witness statements, or documentation that could exonerate you. Our Simi Valley hit and run lawyers provide a free, confidential consultation by phone at (805) 263-1499. Here’s what you can expect from us:

• Detailed review of all police and accident reports to identify weaknesses.
• Contact with the alleged victim to explore a civil compromise and avoid criminal penalties.
• Negotiation with prosecutors for charge reduction or outright dismissal based on legal and factual arguments.
• Vigorous protection of your rights in and out of court, whether the case involves property damage or a complex multi-vehicle incident.

We have an established track record in both misdemeanor and felony hit and run cases in Simi Valley. Our firm understands the ins and outs of local court systems, DMV regulations, and insurance matters—giving you a decisive advantage.

Do not risk your reputation, career, or freedom. Call us at (805) 263-1499 for a free consultation. Let our team develop a strategy that puts you in control, restores your confidence, and defends your future.