CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Are You a Suspect in a Hit and Run Accident? What to Know

Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney if You Were Involved in a Hit and Run Accident

If you were the driver in a hit and run accident and you fled the scene, you should consult a criminal defense attorney before speaking with any police officers or authorities about the accident. Your first priority should be to find an experienced legal professional who can assist you with your case. Remember, anything you say to law enforcement officers could potentially harm your case, so it’s essential to seek professional help before admitting to anything.

Potential Charges and Penalties

The severity of the damage inflicted upon the victim’s vehicle, along with bodily injuries, will greatly influence the charges and penalties that you may face. You could be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony and should expect to have your driver’s license suspended or other driving privileges revoked. Penalties for hit and run include financial fines and possible jail time. If the accident caused severe injuries or a fatality, you could be charged with vehicular manslaughter and face even more severe penalties. It’s essential to have an experienced hit and run lawyer who can investigate the accident in detail. This will help determine if the other driver and passengers involved are genuinely injured or if they are merely trying to get a quick settlement. Proving the degree of harm caused by the accident is crucial in determining the weight of the charges and penalty that you may face.

Evidence

The prosecution must have enough evidence and eyewitness accounts to identify you as the driver in the hit and run accident. They will be looking for any evidence, such as CCTV footage or eyewitness testimony, that can tie you to the accident. Your defense attorney will investigate the case to find any inconsistencies in the prosecution’s evidence, evaluating whether or not it is strong enough to prosecute you.

Plea Deal

Your attorney may advise you to turn yourself in if the prosecution has your license plate number or if they have seen the damage caused to your vehicle. Alternatively, they may negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution to get you a reduced punishment or sentence. The deal may work if you have no prior record and the injuries to the other driver and passengers are minor. Your attorney will examine the evidence to determine if a plea deal is the course of action.

Conclusion

If you were involved in a hit and run accident, it’s crucial to find an experienced criminal defense attorney. They will guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights. Remember to tread lightly as you work with them, and avoid admitting fault before fully investigating the accident. Hit and run accidents are serious cases that require skilled representation, so make sure to choose an attorney with experience and knowledge in this area.