Leaving the scene of an Car Accident is a serious matter under California law. The law requires that all drivers stop and follow specific procedures, whether the crash involves another vehicle, a pedestrian, or property. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges, civil liability, and long-term damage to your driving record and reputation.
Many drivers make poor decisions in the heat of the moment. Panic, fear, or confusion may cause someone to flee a crash site. However, doing so can significantly worsen an already difficult situation. In this article, we explain the legal implications of leaving the scene of a crash in Los Angeles, the types of charges you may face, and how working with an experienced attorney can protect your rights.
Is It Illegal to Leave the Scene of an Accident in California?
Yes, it is illegal to leaving the scene of an car accident. The law is clear on this point. If you are involved in a crash, you are legally obligated to stop, check for injuries, exchange information, and report the accident to authorities if necessary. This applies to all accidents, including minor fender benders, collisions involving injuries, and even a single-car accident leaving the scene.
Under California Vehicle Code Sections 20001 and 20002, failure to stop after a collision can result in a misdemeanor or felony charge, depending on the circumstances. Section 20001 covers accidents involving injury or death. Section 20002 applies when there is property damage but no injuries.
A hit-and-run does not have to involve another person to be a crime. For example, if you crash into a parked car, a fence, or a traffic pole and leave the scene without attempting to notify the owner or the police, you are still breaking the law.
What Are the Charges for Leaving the Scene of an Accident?
The severity of the charges for leaving the scene of an accident depends on whether the crash resulted in property damage, injury, or death.
Misdemeanor Charges
Suppose the accident resulted in property damage only, such as damage to another vehicle or a structure, and you leave the scene without providing your information or contacting law enforcement. In that case, you may be charged with a misdemeanor. Penalties can include:
- Up to six months in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Two points on your DMV record
- Restitution to the victim for property damage
Felony Charges
If the accident caused injury or death and you left the scene, you can be charged with a felony. The penalties are significantly more serious:
- Two to four years in state prison
- Fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000
- Felony record
- Restitution to victims
The penalties increase further if you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash. The legal system views leaving the scene of an Car Accident as a sign of trying to avoid responsibility, and judges do not take these cases lightly.
What Happens If You Leave the Scene and Then Come Back?
Some drivers realize their mistake and return to the scene after initially leaving. While doing so may help in some cases, it does not guarantee that you will avoid legal consequences. The timing of your return, whether law enforcement has already responded, and the accident’s severity all affect how your actions are viewed.
Returning may show good faith and reduce the severity, especially if no one was injured. However, if police reports, eyewitnesses, or surveillance footage confirm that you fled, you may still face criminal charges for leaving the scene of a crash.
If you have left a crash site and are unsure what to do, your best action is to contact a car accident attorney immediately. An attorney can help guide you in your next steps and may be able to mitigate the legal consequences.
Why Some People Leave the Scene, But Why You Should Not
People leave the scene of a Car Accident for many reasons. Some are scared of being blamed. Others may be driving without insurance, under the influence, or have outstanding warrants. Some panic and act irrationally, believing they can escape consequences by fleeing.
However, leaving the scene of a car accident almost always leads to worse outcomes. Even if you were not at fault for the accident, fleeing turns your actions into a separate criminal matter. It complicates your situation, damages your credibility, and increases the risk of jail time, fines, and loss of driving privileges.
You should never leave the scene, even if the accident seems minor. The law requires you to stop, assess the situation, and report as needed. Failure to do so is a mistake that can follow you for years.
When to Contact a Lawyer After a Hit-and-Run Situation
Legal guidance is essential, whether you left the scene or were the victim of someone who did. A car accident attorney can assess your case, explain your options, and defend your rights.
If you are facing charges for leaving the scene of a crash, your lawyer can:
- Review the facts of your case
- Handle communications with law enforcement
- Negotiate to reduce or dismiss charges
- Represent you in court
If you were the victim of a hit-and-run, your lawyer can:
- Help you file an uninsured motorist claim
- Investigate and identify the at-fault driver
- Ensure you receive proper compensation for your injuries, like Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, and property damage
In both scenarios, timing is essential. The sooner you act, the better your chances of avoiding or reducing serious legal consequences.
Do Not Face These Charges Alone: Get Legal Help with LA Injury Lawyers
If you are dealing with the aftermath of leaving the scene of a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Whether you made a mistake or face false allegations, LA Injury Lawyers is here to help you protect your future.
Our experienced attorneys have handled hundreds of car accident cases. They understand the legal system and what it takes to fight for your rights. We provide strong, strategic representation with no upfront costs.
- $11 Million – Brain injury victim
- $10 Million – Car accident settlement
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You do not have to face this alone. Schedule a free, confidential evaluation with our team today.
Call: (818) 539-5390
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What happens if I leave the scene of a single-car accident in Los Angeles?
Depending on whether there was property damage or injury, you may face misdemeanor or felony charges. Always stop and report the incident. - Can I go to jail for leaving the scene of a crash?
Yes. Jail time is a possible penalty, especially for cases involving injury or death. Even property damage-only cases can lead to misdemeanor convictions. - Will returning to the scene reduce the charges?
Returning may help show good faith, but it does not automatically erase the offense. Legal consequences may still apply. - Can I lose my license for leaving an accident?
Yes. Convictions can lead to license suspension, fines, and points on your DMV record. - Should I hire a car accident attorney if I left the scene?
Yes. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options, negotiate on your behalf, and protect you from severe penalties.
