Being charged with a hit and run involving allegations of driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious matter that can change your life overnight. You may be wondering what penalties you could face, how the law defines these charges, and if there’s a way to protect your future.
The good news is that a South Gate hit and run DUI lawyer can defend your rights, guide you through the legal process, and build a strong defense from the start. At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we have decades of experience connecting people like you with attorneys.
During our 19 years in business, we have come to understand the high stakes involved in these cases. You can count on us to connect you with a South Gate DUI lawyer who knows how to challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and work toward a favorable outcome.
When “Leaving the Scene” Becomes a Criminal Liability
After any collision—even a minor one—California law imposes obligations:
- Stop your vehicle
- Exchange contact and insurance information
- Provide or arrange for medical help if someone is injured
Fail to do so, and the act becomes a hit-and-run under Vehicle Code § 20002 for property damage only or § 20001 if injury or death is involved. Once DUI factors in—if the driver was intoxicated or impaired—the case will compound.
From there, prosecutors will likely pursue a DUI charge plus hit and run charges. That means the accused faces dual liability, subject to both DUI rules and hit and run laws. Also, it doesn’t matter whether the intoxication caused the crash.
Even if the DUI wasn’t the primary cause, fleeing the scene can still be charged as a separate offense.
Classifications Of Hit And Run And Their Consequences
California law recognizes different levels of hit and run offenses, and the consequences depend on the extent of damage or injury, as well as whether or not DUI was involved.
Understanding the following distinctions is important for anyone who’s facing these charges.
Property Damage Only: Misdemeanor Hit-And-Run (§ 20002)
When there’s only property damage and no one is injured, hit and run is generally treated as a misdemeanor. The penalties can include up to six months in county jail, fines that are often up to $1,000 or more in total, and restoration of victim losses through restitution.
Even so, courts may treat it more harshly when driving under the influence (DUI) is part of the case. Fleeing from a crash while intoxicated can lead prosecutors to push for stricter sentencing or probation conditions.
Injury Or Death: Felony Or Misdemeanor Option (§ 20001)
When someone suffers injuries or worse, the law upgrades the offense. Hit and run collisions involving injury or death is often framed under § 20001. This can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
It ultimately depends on facts like severity, prior record, and whether gross negligence is alleged. If you are charged with a felony, your penalties may include up to four years in state prison and steep fines that are sometimes up to $10,000 in total.
You could also be looking at license revocations and restitution to victims. Misdemeanor versions still carry jail time, fines, and probation.
When DUI and Hit-And-Run Merge
A driver who is impaired and leaves the scene puts two statutes into play:
- DUI: Vehicle Code § 23152 for standard DUI, or § 23153 if injuries occur
- Hit and run: VC 20001/20002
The combined charges amplify scrutiny, expand exposure, and increase penalties. While this may sound very ominous, know that South Gate hit and run DUI lawyers have what it takes to advocate for you in the face of such intimidating charges.
What Happens With the DMV In A DUI Hit And Run Case
California’s DMV handles administrative actions that are separate from criminal proceedings. After an arrest, the DMV can initiate a license suspension even if a criminal conviction never occurs.
Drivers generally have a short 10-day window to request a hearing in an effort to challenge the suspension. If you fail to do so, you could automatically lose your driving privileges until the matter is resolved.
Even if the criminal charges are dropped or reduced, the DMV process can still move ahead. It’s important to hire South Gate hit and run DUI attorneys who understand that defending that administrative action is just as pressing as defending the criminal side.
Contact Los Angeles DUI Lawyer Today to Connect With a South Gate Hit and Run DUI Attorney
A DUI hit and run case is more than just a traffic offense—it’s a collision of two powerful systems, each with unique rules, burdens, and consequences. Drivers who are accused of these allegations must recognize that every misstep can compound risk.
That’s why these cases require precise legal acumen, knowledge of local courts, and a deep understanding of California’s laws, both in regard to hit and run incidents and DUI collisions. The sooner you call Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, the sooner we can put you in touch with an attorney.
In the days, weeks, and months ahead, the strength of your representation can make all the difference. Reach out to us today for insight into how you can hire a South Gate hit and run DUI attorney who will fight for a favorable outcome in your case.
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