Individuals accused of throwing something at a vehicle on a highway can face criminal charges under California Vehicle Code Section 23110: Throwing an Object at a Motor Vehicle. This charge also applies if someone throws an object at someone in a vehicle.
California treats some VC 23110 offenses as misdemeanors and others as felonies. A conviction can result in jail, fines, and other penalties. You can learn more about this offense with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer. You can also discuss options to build a defense.
What Actions Result in a VC 23110 Charge?
Drivers may face misdemeanor charges under California Vehicle Code Section 23110: Throwing an Object at a Motor Vehicle if the police accuse them of throwing an object or substance at a motor vehicle or a motor vehicle occupant.
Generally, drivers should only face this charge if they throw a substance while on a public road or highway. Drivers can face VC 23110 charges for throwing something at a stationary vehicle.
What Results in a Felony VC 23110 Charge?
The court system can charge someone with a felony under VC 23110 if the individual willfully and maliciously throws something capable of causing serious bodily harm at a motor vehicle or someone in a motor vehicle.
For example, an individual could face felony charges for throwing:
- Bottles
- Rocks
- Bricks
Additionally, the prosecution must show that the driver acted with the intent to cause someone great bodily injury for a felony conviction.
What Are the Results of a VC 23110 Conviction?
The penalties for a California Vehicle Code Section 23110: Throwing an Object at a Motor Vehicle conviction vary based on the severity of the charges. Individuals convicted of a misdemeanor may face:
- Jail time for up to six months
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Misdemeanor probation
Felony convictions result in more severe penalties, which may include:
- Prison time of up to three years
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Felony probation
Individuals on probation have to follow all court-ordered regulations, which may include performing community service or avoiding future convictions.
Failure to follow all probation requirements can result in a probation violation, resulting in additional fines and incarceration.
Can a Lawyer Defend You аrom VC 23110 Charges?
An attorney may build a defense for you if you face VC 23110 accusations. Several defenses may help you avoid a conviction and the penalties associated with this charge. For example, an attorney may argue that:
You Dropped Something by Accident
You should only face a VC 23110 conviction if the prosecution shows that you intentionally threw something at another vehicle or someone in a vehicle. If you accidentally dropped an item that hit another vehicle, you may avoid a conviction.
You didn’t Intent to Hurt Anyone
Your lawyer may take steps to show that you never intended to hurt anyone after a VC 23110 accusation. Establishing your intent can help you avoid a felony conviction, though you could still face misdemeanor charges.
The Police Officer Violated Your Rights
The court may dismiss your charges if a lawyer can show that the police violated your rights before, during, or after an arrest. The court may also dismiss your charges if your lawyer can show that the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to secure a conviction.
Can You Ignore a VC 23110 Charge?
You should not ignore any criminal charges in California. The court can add additional charges if you do not respond to these accusations, including charges for failure to appear.
You can reach out to a law firm immediately to discuss the steps to take after an arrest.
Can a VC 23110 Charge Lead to a DUI Accusation?
The police may accuse you of a CA Vehicle Code 23152 (a) – Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol if they claim you threw something at another vehicle. You can face both of these charges at the same time.
In many cases, police officers will automatically ask for a blood alcohol content (BAC) test or field sobriety test after pulling a driver over for an act like throwing an object at a motor vehicle. DUI charges can result in additional penalties.
Fortunately, you can work with an attorney after an arrest for a DUI and VC 23110 violation. Your attorney may help by:
- Getting your charges reduced
- Having your charges dismissed
- Defending you in court
Lawyers can review many potential defenses, including the rising BAC defense in a California DUI case.
Talk to a Lawyer About Throwing an Object at a Motor Vehicle Charges
You can work with a legal team to handle charges under California Vehicle Code Section 23110: Throwing an Object at a Motor Vehicle, especially if they’re accompanied by DUI accusations.
Our team can help you find a law firm to address all your legal concerns. You can call or fill out our online contact form to learn more.