DC Hit and Run Lawyer

In Washington, D.C., the act of leaving the scene after an auto collision is legally characterized as a hit-and-run, according to DC Code. This legal statute mandates that any driver responsible for a vehicular collision must promptly come to a stop; regardless of who is at fault, the party must remain at the scene of a collision and provide information to the other party; failure to do so may result in a violation of this statute, leading to criminal charges.

Individuals found in breach of this law may be subjected to significant penalties for hit and run in Washington, D.C. Therefore, if you are accused by law enforcement of leaving the scene of an accident, it is imperative to consult with an expert DC hit-and-run attorney promptly.

Legal Consequences for Hit-and-Run Incidents in DC

In the event of a hit-and-run accident, individuals may face misdemeanor charges if they leave the accident scene. In cases where a motorist is involved in a collision that causes injury to another driver, it is imperative for the responsible party to remain at the scene and promptly reach out to emergency services. Failure to comply with these obligations or refusal to provide identifying information to law enforcement may result in criminal charges, which come with a maximum jail term of 180 days and/or a maximum fine of $1,000.

If a collision causes property damage without injuring anyone, the corresponding criminal penalty faced could either be a maximum term of  imprisonment of 30 days and/or a fine of $250. 

In the case of a repeat offense, the possible  criminal penalty could escalate to a maximum of one year in jail and/or a fine of $2,500. The extent of the consequences is contingent on the nature of the damages resulting from the accident. However, every case and fact pattern is unique, so speaking to an expert DC hit-and-run attorney is the first and most important step.

Civil Ramifications

One of the foremost repercussions of a hit and run conviction that does not involve criminal charges is its effect on an individual's driving license. Being convicted of any hit and run offense can result in the accumulation of 12 negative points on your driver's license, automatically leading to a six-month suspension of driving privileges.

The suspension of a license can significantly disrupt a person's daily routine. Driving with a suspended license constitutes a separate criminal offense, carrying a potential penalty of up to one year of imprisonment.

Moreover, such a conviction can adversely affect one's prospects for employment. Background checks for security clearances and professional licenses may reveal this charge, potentially jeopardizing employment opportunities.

Additional Criminal Offenses

In the event of a hit-and-run accusation in DC, individuals may be subject to further criminal charges, depending on the circumstances. Should the accused lack a valid driving license or face issues with their driving privileges, they may be confronted with criminal traffic charges such as operating a vehicle after suspension or without a valid license or operating while revoked.

Law enforcement authorities may also bring charges of reckless endangerment against an individual if their driving behavior displays a careless disregard for the safety of others. In cases where the court determines that the accused deliberately collided with another vehicle or person, they may face assault-related charges, including offenses like malicious destruction of property or assault with a deadly weapon - where the deadly weapon is the vehicle itself.

Get in touch with an elite DC Hit and Run Lawyer

Engaging the services of a criminal attorney becomes crucial when faced with hit and run allegations. An expert DC hit-and-run attorney can meticulously examine the accusations against you, evaluating whether you indeed breached the statute. Additionally, the attorney will scrutinize the evidence presented by the prosecutor to determine the validity of the charges against you.  An expert, experienced DC attorney will pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses within the prosecutor's argument and attack them aggressively.

This evaluation process enables the lawyer to identify any supplemental evidence or information that may contribute to your defense. Subsequently, they will devise a strategic plan to either contest the charges or minimize the potential penalties for hit and run offenses in Washington, DC. Take the first step in constructing your defense by making a call today to the elite, expert DC hit and run attorneys at Ervin Kibria Law.