Legal Blog

What you need to know about hit-and-run cases in California

If you are involved in a car accident, and the other driver did not stop and exchange insurance information, you may have experienced what is called “hit-and-run.”

Motor vehicle accidents are already stressful and disorientating. However, hit-and-runs make a bad situation worse. Here is some helpful information if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.

What is a hit-and-run?

Hit-and-run is defined as leaving the scene of an accident without exchanging information with the other driver.

Reasons why people hit and run

Hit-and-run can be an intentional or an unintentional act. Intentional hit-and-runs often occur when the driver has either been drinking or is under the influence of drugs. Additionally, fleeing the scene of the accident is sometimes done when the person is angry specifically targeted the other person in the accident.

Unintentional hit-and-runs may occur when the vehicle driver suffers from a medical emergency, or if they are unable to communicate the accident due to a disability or mental impairment.

What are the consequences of a hit-and-run?

Hit-and-runs can have all the same mental, physical and emotional effects that a regular car accident often have. However, the unresolved issue of not being able to exchange information adds unnecessary suffering and stress.

What are the penalties for a hit-and-run?

Hit-and-run cases are a serious offense in California. The penalties vary depending on many factors, such as being intentional or intentional. Punishment for leaving the scene of an accident can include fines, suspension of driver’s licenses and jail time. Depending on the severity of injuries, it could be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony.

If you would like to know more about your rights or to discuss the merits of your case, strong legal counsel that is experienced and knowledgeable in California’s motor vehicle accidents laws can be beneficial.