Criminal Defense for Hit and Run Accidents
California traffic law is quite strict about reporting collisions or injuries from a car or truck collision. The California Department of Motor Vehicles requires you file a written accident report with the police or California Highway Patrol within 10 days if property damage exceeds $750. If someone is injured or killed, the report must be filed within 24 hours. Failing to file these reports may result in license suspension.
If you fail to stop - even if there are no injuries - you could be charged with a California hit and run violation. If you are convicted, you could face up to three years in prison and court fines. I'm Jim Pokorny, an attorney with more than 30 years of experience in criminal defense. Contact my San Diego law office for a free initial phone consultation about your hit and run charges.
Your Duty to Stop at the Scene
If a collision occurs, you must provide the following information to the driver or drivers involved in the collision:
- Your name
- Your address
- Your insurance carrier and policy number
- Automobile registration card
If you hit a parked car, and nobody is around, it is acceptable to leave a note on the windshield with complete information. If you are involved in a pedestrian knockdown, you must stop, call 911 and render assistance. If you do not, you may be charged with misdemeanor or felony hit and run.
Defending Clients Against Hit and Run Charges
As a lawyer, I provide learned counsel to San Diego clients accused of hit and run violations. When I accept your case, my staff at the Law Offices of James F. Pokorny, A.P.C. and I immediately begin a thorough investigation into the charges:
- Did my client make any attempt to stop and notify authorities?
- Did my client leave a note without complete information?
- What was my client's blood alcohol level?
- Has my client been previously involved in serious accidents with injuries?
I obtain copies of the police report and gather evidence about the extent of the pedestrian's or passenger's injuries to build a strong defense. I keep my caseload light, so that I can give each client the attention his or her case deserves.
Please contact me today for a free initial consultation in my San Diego law offices.
