Elements of a Los Angeles Hit and Run

In order for a person to be charged and convicted of a Los Angeles Hit and Run, the prosecutor must prove two elements:

1. There was damage to property, or injury to person
2. The driver must have made no effort to provide contact information.

It is also important to remember that a Hit and Run does not require fault. It doesn’t require that the person be at fault for causing damage or injury.

It is also important to remember that both elements must be met beyond a reasonable doubt in order for a person to be convicted of a Hit and Run in Los Angeles. If either of the elements are not met, or if there are facts that support a strong defense against either of the elements, then there is a high possibility that a knowledgeable Los Angeles Hit and Run lawyer can get the case dismissed.

Let’s consider two examples to better understand this concept.

Donny is getting ready to leave a restaurant. He is parked in the small parking lot, with his car, and another in the parking lot. The car next to Donny’s backs out of the parking lot quickly, reversing into a tree and a fence, causing damage. The driver immediately drives off. When authorities arrive, Donny is driving away. Authorities assume it is Donny that caused the damage and arrest him for suspicion of a Hit and Run. Donny did not cause the damage and is being improperly charged. The right experienced lawyer will get the charges against Donny dismissed by providing a strong argument.

Donna is driving home on a windy, rainy night. In the dark she accidentally hits a car as she is driving down a narrow road. She immediately pulls over, and writes a note giving her name and contact information so that she can reimburse the driver for the damages. Donna puts the note under the windshield wiper. Unbeknownst to her, the note flies away in the rain and wind. When officers arrest Donna, she immediately hires a Los Angeles Hit and Run lawyer. The lawyer argues that Donna did leave a note, and did not flee the scene without providing contact information. This is a valid defense, and if argued successfully establishes that both elements were not met in establishing a case for Hit and Run. These are grounds for a dismissal.

If you are facing Hit and Run charges, you could potentially face a plethora of possible sentences. This could include jail time, a fine, probation, as well as rehabilitation classes. Not only will there be a sentence, the charge will remain on your permanent record, and will have to be disclosed to potential employers, educational and financial institutions.

Do the best thing for yourself and hire a legal professional that can give the case a strong fighting chance. A Los Angeles Hit and Run attorney will prepare a strong defense, will gather the proper evidence and will develop a strategy so that they can fight for you!