Upland Hit and Run Lawyer

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

A minor collision on Foothill Boulevard, a scraped mirror in a Target parking lot, or a late-night incident on the 210 freeway can quickly spiral out of control if you leave the scene—sometimes even if you were scared or confused. Prosecutors in Upland and throughout San Bernardino County aggressively file hit and run charges, regardless of the severity of damage or injury. From the moment a police officer leaves a notice on your door or makes a call about your vehicle, you need an attorney who knows the local courts, understands the intricate details of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and is skilled in crafting defenses that can persuade a judge or prosecutor to dismiss or reduce your case. At My Rights Law, we use proven strategies and tenacious representation to fight for your rights and protect your future if you’re facing hit and run accusations in Upland.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To secure a conviction, the prosecutor must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, all of the “elements of the crime” outlined in CALCRIM 2150:

• You were involved in an accident that caused damage to another person’s vehicle or property.
• You knew, or should have reasonably known, that the accident resulted in such damage.
• You willfully failed to stop, exchange identifying information, or provide assistance as required by law.

An experienced Upland hit and run attorney will challenge these points—questioning whether you truly knew an accident occurred, whether you attempted to fulfill your obligations, and whether law enforcement made mistakes in their investigation.

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 comply with these requirements can result in up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and an order for restitution. In Upland, prosecutors often add demands for reimbursement of all towing and repair costs, making it crucial to have effective legal counsel on your side.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

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

Maximum Custody

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Up to 6 months in county jail
• VC 20001 (Felony): Up to 4 years in state prison (with possible enhancements for serious injury)

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Property-related repairs
• VC 20001 (Felony): Medical costs, lost income, 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 Upland can bring the following consequences:

• Up to six months incarceration at the West Valley Detention Center.
• Fines reaching $1,000, plus significant penalty assessments.
• Up to three years of informal probation, often with required community service, substance abuse counseling if relevant, and mandatory SR-22 insurance filings.
• Civil responsibility for any property damage and all related towing charges.
• Two points on your DMV record, likely causing your insurance premiums to rise, and possible license suspension for those with prior infractions.

However, many first-time offenders in Upland can avoid jail time if their attorney secures a civil compromise, diversion, or reduction to a non-criminal “courtesy notice” that eliminates criminal liability.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our experienced legal team has defended numerous hit and run cases in Upland, using strategies that are tailored to the unique facts of each situation. These defenses include:

• Lack of Knowledge – Sometimes, you are genuinely unaware any contact occurred, especially if driving a larger vehicle or if the impact was minimal. We can use accident reconstruction and expert testimony to show reasonable doubt about your knowledge.
• No Actual Damage – If no real damage occurred, or if damage pre-existed, we leverage photographic evidence and repair records to contest the prosecution’s claims.
• Attempted Exchange – You stopped and tried to provide information, but the other driver left first. Cell phone records, dash-cam footage, and witness statements can prove your compliance.
• Owner Could Not Be Located – The law allows for leaving a note with your contact details if the owner isn’t present. A documented, clear message satisfies the statute.
• Emergency Situation – Health emergencies, threats to safety, or direction from police can lawfully justify a temporary departure from the scene.
• Mistaken Identity – Errors such as swapped license plates, stolen vehicles, or incorrect eyewitness reports frequently lead to misidentification. We use surveillance and official records to set the record straight.
• Unlawful Police Action – If law enforcement violated your rights during the stop or interrogation, we file motions to suppress evidence and challenge improper procedures.

Each case receives personalized attention—no generic approaches. Our attorneys emphasize your clean record, valid insurance, and proactive cooperation to help secure the best possible outcome, whether that’s a reduced charge, dismissal, or a favorable negotiation with prosecutors.

Contact Our Upland Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

Acting quickly is critical—important evidence like dash-cam recordings, witness accounts, and repair bills can disappear if you wait too long. Our Upland hit and run attorneys offer a no-cost, immediate phone consultation at 888-702-8882. We will:

• Scrutinize police reports for inconsistencies or legal errors.
• Communicate with the alleged victim to pursue civil settlement when appropriate.
• Work to negotiate a reduction to a no-point infraction with the court.
• Vigorously pursue a dismissal if you are factually innocent or your rights were violated.

We have handled a wide variety of hit and run cases in Upland, from minor parking lot scrapes to serious injury collisions, and we know how to protect your license, your finances, and your reputation. Our in-depth understanding of criminal defense, DMV regulations, and insurance procedures allows us to build the strongest defense possible.

Don’t risk your future or leave your case to chance. Contact My Rights Law today at 888-702-8882 for your free consultation and take the first step toward putting this stressful situation behind you. One phone call can make all the difference—let us help you regain control and peace of mind.