If you leave the scene after a DUI accident, you could suffer consequences that are much more serious than those you would face from causing a DUI crash alone. Instead of fleeing the scene of the incident, you’ll want to check on those involved and call an ambulance if you or someone else needs medical attention.
If you’ve already left the scene of the crash, you’ll want to consult with a Los Angeles hit-and-run DUI lawyer. An attorney can advise you on your next steps and work to protect you from serious penalties associated with a DUI hit and run offense. Let’s take a closer look at what happens after you leave the scene of a DUI crash and how a lawyer can help you.
California Law Requires You to Stay at the Scene
If you’re wondering what happens if you leave the scene after a DUI accident, you should familiarize yourself with California law. Under California Vehicle Code §20001 and §20002, all drivers have a legal duty to stop after a crash, whether or not they caused it. This requirement applies even if the damage seems minor or if the other drivers involved are uninjured.
If you’ve caused an accident while impaired, take the following steps to comply with state law:
- Remain at the accident scene
- Call law enforcement
- Provide identifying information to the police and other drivers
- Provide reasonable assistance if someone is hurt
Leaving the Scene After a DUI Accident Involves Two Separate Charges
Many people believe that a DUI charge will “cover everything” after such an incident, but, in reality, you’ll face two separate criminal charges if you leave the scene after a DUI accident. Firstly, you’ll be charged with driving under the influence for operating your vehicle while intoxicated.
Police may rely on witness testimony, chemical tests, and other measures to determine whether or not you are intoxicated. Secondly, you’ll face hit-and-run charges for leaving the scene of the collision you caused. The severity of your hit-and-run charges will depend on whether the incident involved property damage only or if other drivers and passengers were injured.
Penalties for Leaving a DUI Accident Scene
Causing an accident while impaired and fleeing the scene can result in serious consequences that impact many aspects of your life. For a misdemeanor hit-and-run, you could face up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $1,000, probation, and restitution for property damage.
If you’re charged with felony hit and run involving injury, you could face up to 4 years in state prison, fines between $1,000 and $10,000, felony probation, and restitution. If you are convicted of DUI, you’ll likely face license suspension, jail time, mandatory DUI school, and other penalties.
At a time like this, you’ll want to protect your freedom and future by hiring a skilled DUI attorney. A lawyer will explain what happens if you leave the scene after a DUI accident and work hard to build a strong defense case for you.
What To Do if You Panicked and Left the Scene of a DUI Crash
Not everyone who leaves the scene of a DUI accident is trying to escape responsibility. After such an incident, you may be afraid, injured, confused, or overwhelmed. You also may not realize that someone was hurt until later.
If you left the scene after a DUI accident, the worst thing you can do is ignore the situation. Law enforcement will likely already be investigating the crash, so waiting for them to arrest you isn’t the best option. Instead of waiting and worrying, you’ll want to contact a skilled criminal defense attorney and have them take the following steps for you:
- Contact law enforcement on your behalf
- Arrange a safe and controlled surrender to the authorities
- Begin gathering evidence before it disappears
- Take steps to prevent automatic license suspension
- Build a compelling defense case
- Negotiate with prosecutors to get reduced charges
- Protect your rights and future in court
As you can see, there are many actions a lawyer can take on your behalf if you leave the scene after a DUI accident. While it’s strongly recommended that you stay at the scene of a crash until police arrive, an attorney can help you fight your charges if you happened to leave the accident scene.
Meet With a Trusted DUI Attorney for Free
If you’ve left the scene after causing an impaired driving accident, don’t panic. Instead, contact the team at Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, and we will connect you with an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and represent you in the courtroom. We are available 24/7 and fully prepared to connect you with the legal resources you need to handle this situation.
A lawyer will meet with you to discuss your DUI accident, explain what happens if you leave the scene after a DUI accident, and answer any questions you have about building a criminal defense case. With a skilled attorney on your side, you’ll have the help you need to get your charges reduced or dropped completely.
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