Hit-And-Run Laws In California: What You Need To Know

Hit and Run in California: What You Need to Know

Updated January 22, 2025

It only takes seconds for a normal drive to turn into something catastrophic, and this is especially true in certain parts of California, which are notorious for their heavy traffic.

For example, Los Angeles is known for being difficult to navigate through in a car. More time on the road means a greater chance you'll experience an accident such as a hit and run.

It's crucial to understand how to handle these scenarios. Let's explore the key information you should keep in mind when you get into a hit-and-run in California.

Understanding California Hit-and-Run Laws

California law distinguishes between misdemeanor and felony hit-and-run charges based on the severity of the accident and the injuries involved. Penalties can range from fines and license suspension to imprisonment, depending on the case specifics.

Understanding these laws (and similar ones) is crucial for navigating legal responsibilities and potential consequences. A hit-and-run in California occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing identification or offering assistance to injured parties.

It doesn't matter who's at fault in the incident. For instance, let's assume you were rear-ended while driving home from work.

You panic and quickly leave the scene despite not being responsible for the collision. If the other driver experienced consequences like head or spinal injuries, they might not be able to call for help on their own.

California hit-and-run laws require all drivers to:

  • Remain at the scene
  • Exchange contact and insurance information
  • Report the accident to authorities if there are injuries or significant damage

Failure to do so will make the situation far more complicated. It's even possible to encounter legal issues if you were a victim of a collision by leaving the scene.

Legal Consequences of a Hit-and-Run in California

After a hit-and-run in California, drivers face serious legal consequences that can vary depending on the accident's severity. Under California hit-and-run laws, even minor collisions require the involved parties to remain at the scene.

Leaving without providing necessary information or assisting the injured can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges. Misdemeanor charges might result in:

  • Fines
  • License suspension
  • Jail time

Felony charges, often associated with injuries or fatalities, can lead to more severe penalties. These often include lengthy prison sentences. For example, someone who leaves the scene of an accident that resulted in death could be held liable.

It's essential to take the appropriate course of action after an accident to avoid further complications. Let's explore the steps below.

Ensure Everyone's Safety

The first priority after an accident is to check for injuries and ensure the safety of everyone involved. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further danger.

It's crucial to call emergency services immediately if there are any injuries, regardless of how minor they might seem. Remaining calm and providing assistance to those in need can make a significant difference in the aftermath of the accident.

Gather Important Information

After ensuring everyone's safety, gather all necessary information about the accident, such as insurance and driver's license info. Take photos of the scene and the vehicles involved.

Witness statements can also help support your case if a legal issue arises later. Accurate documentation will play a key role when filing hit-and-run insurance claims or seeking compensation.

Notify the Authorities

As previously mentioned, reporting a hit-and-run to the police is required by law and helps create an official record of the incident. Providing a detailed account to law enforcement can help identify the responsible party.

Even if the accident seems minor, involving the authorities will help prevent further complications from arising. The last thing you want is to inadvertently create additional problems.

Seek Medical Attention

After an accident, seeking medical attention should be your top priority. Symptoms might not appear immediately, and delaying treatment can worsen conditions.

A medical evaluation ensures that any injuries are properly diagnosed and documented, which is crucial for future legal proceedings. Accurate medical records provide essential evidence if you pursue a hit-and-run compensation claim or legal action.

Additionally, prompt medical care helps establish a clear connection between the accident and your injuries, which can strengthen your case. If you wait to seek medical attention, the other party's attorney could argue that you only claimed injuries to obtain compensation.

Finding the Right Legal Help for Your Case

Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be overwhelming, especially when facing potential legal battles. Seeking legal advice for hit-and-run cases is crucial to ensuring you understand your legal rights and obligations.

A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through complex legal processes and help you prepare a strong defense. They can also assist with hit-and-run insurance claims and work to maximize any compensation you may be entitled to.

Having an experienced lawyer means having an advocate on your side who is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for your situation. When looking for someone to work with, consider their experience with hit-and-run cases and their track record in similar legal situations.

An attorney who understands the nuances of California hit-and-run laws will be equipped to handle the complexities of your case. It's also important to choose a lawyer who communicates clearly and keeps you informed throughout the process.

Personalized attention can make a significant difference in how comfortable you feel with them. With enough due diligence, you'll find someone capable of handling your needs.

Take Action After a Hit-and-Run in California

The longer you wait after a hit-and-run in California, the more complicated your case will become. The tips in this guide will help you make the best decision for your needs. Just be sure to research the lawyer you work with.

FYourTicket has over 10 years of experience and has successfully dismissed over 10,000 traffic tickets. With a 4.8/5 Google Reviews rating, they provide expert defense for speeding, reckless driving, DUI, and other traffic violations in California.

Let us handle your case so you can avoid costly fines and penalties. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about how we can help.