Were you arrested for driving under the influence and fleeing the scene of a collision after hitting another vehicle? These types of cases are taken extremely seriously under California law since they not only involve impaired driving but also leaving the scene of a car crash.
As a result, the consequences that you could potentially face can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to know that this doesn’t have to be the end of the road for you. You’re not alone, and a Compton DUI lawyer can represent you in the face of these accusations.
There are still paths forward, and a Compton hit and run DUI lawyer can guide you toward them. It all starts with contacting Los Angeles DUI Lawyer as soon as possible. Backed by decades of experience, we’ve successfully connected thousands of clients with trusted attorneys.
Defining Hit and Run Under California Law
A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop and provide the legally required information to all other parties at the scene. California Vehicle Code (CVC) 20001 and CVC 20002 distinguish between two primary forms of hit and run:
- Misdemeanor hit and run (CVC 20002): This applies when the crash only results in property damage. A driver is required to stop, provide contact information, and offer insurance details. They are expected to leave a written note behind if the damaged property is unattended at the time of the incident.
- Felony hit and run (CVC 20001): This applies when the collision results in injuries or causes death. In these cases, failing to stop and provide aid or exchange information with other parties at the scene will constitute a felony offense.
When alcohol or drugs are involved, a hit and run offense can become even more serious. This is because the incident combines two major violations:
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to remain at the scene
DUI Laws in California
California’s driving under the influence (DUI) statutes are among the strictest in the nation. In fact, these are DUI laws applicable across the entire state:
- A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired.
- Commercial drivers face a lower legal threshold of 0.04% BAC.
- Drivers under the age of 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy at 0.01% BAC.
Driving under the influence of drugs—including prescription medication and cannabis—is also prohibited. When DUI is tied to a hit and run, the prosecution often treats the case as aggravated, which subsequently exposes the accused to enhanced penalties.
When Hit and Run and DUI Charges Overlap
In Compton and all throughout Los Angeles County, prosecutors often charge a defendant with both DUI and hit and run. While the two charges are separate, they can also be prosecuted together. In turn, the penalties you’ll face will likely be compounded as well.
Even if the collision only results in property damage, leaving the scene while impaired can escalate the seriousness of your charges. This overlap creates situations where courts have to weigh both the act of impaired driving and the failure to fulfill legal duties after a collision.
No matter which charges you’re facing, your Compton hit and run DUI attorney will advocate for your rights and pursue a favorable outcome in your case.
Aggravating Factors in Compton Hit and Run DUI Cases
Certain factors can increase the severity of sentencing in Los Angeles County courts:
- Prior convictions: Repeat DUI offenders face harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions and mandatory jail or prison terms.
- High BAC levels: A BAC of 0.15% or higher can result in enhanced sentencing.
- Child endangerment: Driving under the influence with a minor in the car can trigger additional charges.
- Serious injuries: If the hit and run caused great bodily injury, sentencing enhancements under California’s “Three Strikes” law may apply.
- Fatalities: A DUI hit and run resulting in death can lead to vehicular manslaughter charges, which carry significant prison terms.
Contact Los Angeles DUI Lawyer ASAP to Find a Compton Hit and Run DUI Law Firm
A DUI involving a hit and run can leave you facing severe charges that carry both criminal and civil consequences. These cases can quickly become complicated, but you don’t have to face them all by yourself. Instead, let Compton hit and run DUI lawyers handle them on your behalf.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we can connect you with Compton hit and run DUI attorneys who know how to guide you through what lies ahead and help you understand your options moving forward. Know that it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future.
But remember that you’re not alone. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can put you in touch with hit and run DUI lawyers in Compton for a consultation. Reach out today.
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