Van Nuys Hit and Run Lawyer

A hit and run charge in Van Nuys can quickly turn your life upside down. Whether the incident involved property damage, bodily injury, or worse, the legal consequences under California law are serious and long-lasting. Without skilled legal guidance, you risk facing heavy fines, license suspension, and even jail time. That’s why having a seasoned Van Nuys hit and run lawyer by your side is critical to defending your rights, reputation, and future.

At DCD LAW, we specialize in criminal defense. Our team brings focused experience and an aggressive strategy to every case we handle, including hit and run allegations throughout Los Angeles County.

In California, a hit and run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to provide information or assist injured parties. This obligation exists regardless of fault. The law applies whether the crash results in property damage, injuries, or fatalities.

• Misdemeanor hit and run (Vehicle Code § 20002): Involves only property damage.
  
• Felony hit and run (Vehicle Code § 20001): Applies when the accident results in injury or death.
  

The difference in classification significantly affects potential penalties, including fines and incarceration.

Some typical situations that result in hit and run allegations include:

• Hitting a parked vehicle and fleeing
  
• Accidents involving uninsured drivers
  
• Drivers unaware that a collision occurred
  
• Leaving due to fear or being under the influence

Law enforcement typically gathers:

• Surveillance footage

• Witness statements

• Vehicle damage assessments

• Police reports

The evidence collected often forms the foundation of the prosecution’s case.

Police use vehicle descriptions, license plate readers, and camera footage to trace alleged hit and run vehicles. Officers may also contact registered vehicle owners and request interviews or statements.

Once enough evidence is gathered, suspects may be arrested or issued a notice to appear in court. Charges may range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the incident.

Some common defenses include:

• Lack of knowledge of the accident

• Mistaken identity

• Emergency circumstances

• No damage or injury occurred

You can only be convicted if the prosecution proves that you knew—or reasonably should have known—that an accident occurred. In minor collisions, proving a lack of knowledge can be a valid defense.

Video evidence and eyewitness testimony are not always reliable. Your Van Nuys hit and run lawyer can question the accuracy of camera footage or highlight inconsistencies in witness accounts.

• Misdemeanor penalties: Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000.

• Felony penalties: Up to 4 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

• DMV consequences: Possible driver’s license suspension.

In addition to criminal charges, hit and run defendants may also be liable for civil damages—paying for the victim’s vehicle repairs, medical bills, or other losses.

A conviction can lead to:

• Increased insurance premiums.

• Points on your driving record.

• A permanent criminal record affects employment and housing opportunities.

The earlier you contact a defense attorney, the better your chances of reducing or dismissing the charges. Your lawyer can guide you on how to respond to police inquiries and protect your rights from the outset.

A strategic defense begins with investigating the facts. Your attorney will review all available evidence, speak with witnesses, and look for procedural errors or violations of your rights.

A skilled defense lawyer can:

• Seek plea bargains

• Argue for civil compromise agreements

• Recommend diversion programs for first-time offenders