If you’re wondering about the most common charges for a DUI with hit and run in CA, the answer is that individuals may face multiple offenses under California law. A case that involves both drunk driving and fleeing the scene of a vehicular accident often leads to criminal charges.
A DUI with hit and run may also result in license suspension, fines, increased insurance premiums, and possibly jail time or even state prison if the incident caused serious injury or involved a pedestrian.
Our Los Angeles DUI lawyer team can help individuals better grasp what lies ahead.
Understanding DUI and Hit and Run Laws in California
In California, cases involving both driving under the influence and a hit and run accident are treated seriously by both the criminal court system and agencies like the Department of Motor Vehicles. These situations often involve violations related to alcohol, property damage, or even injury to a pedestrian or another driver.
The California Highway Patrol, local police, and other law enforcement agencies throughout the state may work with prosecutors to review evidence, including surveillance cameras, blood alcohol content levels, and witness statements. These cases may involve stacked penalties and concurrent charges depending on the facts.
DUI Definition
A DUI in California usually involves operating a motor vehicle with a high blood alcohol concentration or while impaired by drugs. Officers may use field sobriety tests, breath tests, or blood tests to check a driver’s condition. A confirmed DUI can lead to license suspension, fines, and even county jail or state prison in serious cases.
DUI charges may also affect a person’s criminal record, insurance, and ability to drive legally. Use of an ignition interlock device may be required, and the court could mandate attendance at a DUI education program.
Hit and Run Offense Definition
A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing contact or insurance information. This is true whether the accident involved another person, a pedestrian, or private or governmental property. Failing to remain at the scene may result in felony hit-and-run charges, especially if there is injury or death.
In these cases, law enforcement officers and investigators gather facts to determine if the driver met their legal duties after the accident. A conviction may lead to restitution, license revocation, or additional charges like reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter.
Legal Consequences of DUI Combined With Hit and Run
When a person is charged with both driving under the influence and hit and run, the legal consequences are often severe. In California, these offenses may lead to combined penalties that include fines, license suspension, probation, or even time in county jail or state prison, depending on the case.
These cases often involve law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and judges who consider the facts of the collision, such as whether there was property damage, injury to a pedestrian, or high blood alcohol concentration. Additional charges like reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter may also apply in certain situations.
License Suspension and Revocation
The California Department of Motor Vehicles may take immediate steps to suspend or revoke the person’s driver’s license. This can happen before the court case ends, especially if the driver refused a blood test or failed a breathalyzer during the arrest.
Penalties related to licensing may include:
- Suspension after arrest or conviction
- Full revocation for repeat offenses
- Mandatory use of an interlock ignition device
- Limited driving rights with restrictions
Insurance Policies
A DUI with a hit and run can seriously affect a person’s insurance policies. After a conviction, insurance companies often raise insurance premiums or cancel coverage altogether. Drivers may also be required to file an SR-22 insurance policy to prove financial responsibility.
Financial effects may include:
- Sharp increases in insurance rates
- Loss of insurance coverage or denial of future policies
- Out-of-pocket costs for property damage or injury claims
Long-Term Consequences
Beyond court and DMV actions, this kind of offense can impact different parts of life. A criminal record can affect employment, professional licenses, and legal status in certain cases. A conviction can also lead to civil court claims from victims seeking reparations.
Long-term consequences may involve:
- Limited job opportunities or professional restrictions
- Difficulty with license renewal and vehicle registration
- Loss of reputation and personal hardships
In some cases, courts may also consider consecutive sentences if multiple charges are involved. Repeat offenses or other aggravating factors may increase penalties under California’s legal system.
Common Defenses in DUI With Hit and Run Cases
A criminal defense lawyer or DUI attorney may challenge the charges by looking at how the blood alcohol content was tested or whether there was probable cause for the stop. Lawyers might also examine witness statements, CCTV footage, or errors in the actions of law enforcement agencies.
Potential legal defenses could involve:
- Contesting how the field sobriety tests were performed
- Questioning whether the driver was impaired at the time
- Showing a lack of intent in leaving the scene
- Presenting evidence from surveillance cameras or investigators
Get Legal Representation After a DUI Accident With a Hit and Run
People convicted of DUI in California can face severe consequences. The legal process often involves judges, prosecutors, and sometimes multiple court appearances in California courts, including in areas like Los Angeles County, Orange County, or cities such as Beverly Hills and Van Nuys.
Having a criminal defense attorney review the case, evaluate available evidence, and offer guidance through the court process may help the driver understand the situation more clearly. Whether the incident happened on California roads or in a local city, proper legal support can help protect your rights throughout the process.
Contact Los Angeles DUI Lawyer today to be connected with a local attorney for a free case consultation.
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