Hit-and-Run Laws in California

California Hit-and-Run Defense Lawyers

Being accused of a hit-and-run in California is a serious matter that can lead to criminal charges, jail time, heavy fines, license points, and a permanent criminal record.

Hit-and-run offenses are prosecuted under California Vehicle Code §§ 20002 and 20001, and the severity of the charge depends primarily on whether the accident involved property damage or bodily injury, not who caused the accident.

Even drivers who are not at fault can face hit-and-run charges if they fail to stop and comply with the law. If you are under investigation or have been charged, early legal representation is critical.

Your best hope for a favorable outcome is with a highly experienced criminal defense attorney at Cron, Israels & Stark in Los Angeles. To schedule a consultation, call (424) 372-3112 or contact us here.

What Is a Hit-and-Run in California?

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver is involved in an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to provide required information or assistance, as mandated by law.

California law requires drivers to:

Stop immediately after an accident
Identify themselves to the other party
Provide driver's license and vehicle information
Render reasonable aid if someone is injured

Failing to do so—even in a minor accident—can result in criminal charges.

Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run – Vehicle Code § 20002

What VC 20002 Prohibits

Vehicle Code § 20002 applies when an accident causes property damage only, such as:

Fender-benders
Hitting a parked vehicle
Damaging a fence, mailbox, or building

The driver must:

Stop at a safe location
Provide their name and address
Show driver's license and registration if requested

If the property owner is not present, the driver must leave a written note with identifying information and notify law enforcement.

Penalties for Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run

A conviction under VC 20002 may result in:

Up to 6 months in county jail
Fines of up to $1,000
2 points on your California driver's license
Probation and community service

Felony Hit-and-Run – Vehicle Code § 20001

When Hit-and-Run Becomes a Felony

Vehicle Code § 20001 applies when an accident results in injury or death to another person.

A driver must:

Stop immediately at the scene
Provide identifying and vehicle information
Render reasonable medical assistance
Cooperate with law enforcement

Leaving the scene knowing or reasonably suspecting someone was injured can result in felony charges.

Penalties for Felony Hit-and-Run

Felony hit-and-run convictions can lead to:

90 days to 4 years in state prison
Fines up to $10,000
Mandatory victim restitution
Long-term license consequences

Does Fault Matter in a Hit-and-Run Case?

No. The fault in causing the accident is irrelevant to hit-and-run charges.

You can be legally parked, rear-ended, or otherwise not responsible—and still face charges if you fail to stop and comply with the law.

Civil Compromise in Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run Cases

In some misdemeanor cases, it may be possible to resolve charges through a civil compromise under California Penal Code § 1378.

This may involve:

Paying all repair or damage costs
Compensating the victim fully
Having the victim request dismissal in court

However, dismissal is not automatic and remains within the judge's discretion.

Common Defenses to Hit-and-Run Charges

Every hit-and-run case is fact-specific. Potential defenses include:

Lack of Knowledge

The prosecution must prove you knew or reasonably should have known that damage or injury occurred.

You Were Not the Driver

The state must prove you were actually driving the vehicle at the time of the incident.

False Allegations or Mistaken Identity

Hit-and-run cases often rely on eyewitness accounts that can be inaccurate.

Compliance with the Law

You stopped, attempted to locate the owner, or left required identifying information.

Why You Need a Hit-and-Run Defense Lawyer

Hit-and-run cases often move quickly and involve:

Police investigations
DMV consequences
Insurance complications
Potential felony exposure

An experienced defense attorney can:

Prevent charges from being filed
Reduce felony charges to misdemeanors
Seek dismissal through civil compromise
Minimize jail time and penalties

Speak With a California Hit-and-Run Defense Lawyer

If you are accused of a hit-and-run, do not speak to police or insurance investigators without legal counsel. Early intervention can significantly affect the outcome.

Cron, Israels & Stark represents clients throughout Los Angeles County in misdemeanor and felony hit-and-run cases.

Our attorneys understand California traffic laws, local court procedures, and how to aggressively defend your rights.

📞 Call 424-372-3112 now for a free, confidential consultation and immediate legal guidance.

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