What to Do if You Are Falsely Accused of a Hit-And-Run
Innocent people are accused of crimes they did not commit more often than you might think. If you have been accused of causing an accident and fleeing the scene in California, you could face serious consequences such as jail time and fines.
Hitting a vehicle and not sticking around to trade information with the other driver is a serious crime in California. A conviction for a hit-and-run may result in jail time, fines, and other repercussions, so it is important that you consult with an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after being charged with a hit-and-run offense.
Were You Falsely Accused of Violating VC 20002 or VC 20001 in California?
Being accused of a crime you did not commit is incredibly scary. Even if the accusation is completely untrue, if you are not careful, you could end up with some very real life-changing consequences.
There are two types of hit-and-run charges in the state of California:
- California Vehicle Code 20002 is a misdemeanor offense that covers hit-and-run crashes involving only property damage. It states:
“The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to any property, including vehicles, shall immediately stop the vehicle at the nearest location that will not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.”
- California Vehicle Code 20001 is a felony offense that covers hit-and-run crashes involving bodily injury. It states:
“The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident…”
California Vehicle Code states that a driver is guilty of a hit-and-run offense if they leave the scene of an accident without first identifying themselves, giving their name and address, and providing other information as requested by any other party involved in the accident.
Steps to Take After a False Hit-And-Run Accusation in California
If you have been accused of a hit-and-run crash in California, here is what you should do:
Be Wary When Talking to Police Officers
Be polite, but at the same time, be careful not to answer any questions without your attorney present. Avoid admitting guilt or signing anything without speaking with an attorney first.
Do Not Talk to Anyone About the Case
You should not discuss the case with anyone, including your colleagues, friends, and even family members, because anything you say could be used against you in court.
Discuss Your Situation With a Criminal Defense Attorney
Unlike your family, friends, coworkers, and the police, your criminal defense lawyer is a professional legal advocate hired with the sole objective of defending your rights and interests. Your lawyer will advise you on how to handle your hit-and-run case so that you can move past it with as little effect on your life as possible.
Partner With a California Criminal Defense Attorney to Fight a False Hit-And-Run Accusation
Some people may think that since they are innocent that the court will automatically side with them, but unfortunately, things do not always work out this way. Protect yourself after being falsely accused of a hit-and-run by partnering with a criminal defense attorney who will back up your claims and effectively prove your innocence in court. If you have been accused of a crime you did not commit, do not wait to seek professional legal counsel. An Aron Law Firm criminal defense lawyer will build a solid defense for your California hit-and-run case.
Schedule a meeting with a California criminal defense attorney by calling (805) 618-1768 or submitting a completed contact form to discuss your legal options with our team today.
