DUI hit-and-run charges in California are brought when a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs is involved in an accident and leaves the scene without providing necessary information or rendering aid. This offense combines two separate crimes: driving under the influence and hit-and-run.
The combination of these actions can result in severe penalties, as it involves both the dangerous act of impaired driving and the failure to take responsibility for a collision. You can fight these charges if you have a Los Angeles DUI lawyer as soon as possible after you’ve been arrested.
Elements of DUI Hit-and-Run
To be charged with a DUI hit-and-run, you must have been:
- Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Been involved in a collision
- Left the scene without fulfilling your legal obligations.
Your legal obligations include stopping at the scene, providing your contact and insurance information, and calling 911 for assistance if anyone is injured. If there are no injuries but significant property damage, you must call 911 to report the accident to the police.
What Are the Potential Penalties for a DUI Hit-and-Run in California?
The penalties for a DUI hit-and-run in California can completely rob you of your freedom and your financial health. The exact consequences depend on prior convictions, the severity of any injuries, and property damage.
Potential penalties may include jail time, fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and probation. In cases involving serious injuries or fatalities, you could face felony charges with even harsher punishments, including prison time.
Additionally, a conviction can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life, including increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and a permanent criminal record.
How Can I Defend Against DUI Hit-and-Run Charges?
Defending against DUI hit-and-run charges is tough, but it’s possible with the help of a lawyer and the right circumstances in your case. Some potential DUI defense strategies include:
- Challenging the DUI evidence: We may question the validity of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, or blood tests.
- Disputing hit-and-run elements: If you were unaware of causing an accident or had a valid reason for leaving the scene, this could be a viable defense.
Depending on the factors, it may be possible to drop the charge of DUI hit-and-run into one of the two types of crimes, which will carry fewer penalties. Consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after your arrest for the best chances of success.
What Should I Do If I’m Arrested for a DUI Hit-and-Run?
If you’re arrested for a DUI hit-and-run, protect yourself by following these steps:
- Exercise your right to remain silent: Avoid discussing the incident with law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Request an attorney: Ask to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions or making any statements.
- Document everything: As soon as possible, write down everything you remember about the incident and your arrest.
- Seek legal representation: Contact an experienced DUI hit-and-run defense attorney as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Remember, anything you say can be used against you in court. A lawyer can protect you from saying something that could be used against you.
Can a DUI Hit-and-Run Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes, DUI hit-and-run charges in California can be reduced or dismissed, depending on the circumstances of your case:
- Lack of evidence: If insufficient evidence proves all elements of the crime, charges may be reduced or dismissed.
- Procedural errors: If law enforcement makes mistakes during your arrest or the investigation, they could result in a charge reduction or dismissal.
- Plea bargaining: In some cases, we can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser offense.
The possibility of charge reduction or dismissal depends heavily on the specific details of your case and the strength of your defense. An experienced attorney from our firm can assess your situation to determine the most favorable outcome for your case.
How Long Does a DUI Hit-and-Run Stay on My Record in California?
A DUI hit-and-run conviction can have long-lasting consequences. A DUI conviction stays on your driving record for ten years. However, the criminal record of the conviction may remain permanently unless you take steps to have it expunged.
The long-term presence of this conviction on your record can affect:
- Employment opportunities: Many employers conduct background checks and may be hesitant to hire someone with a DUI hit-and-run conviction.
- Insurance rates: Your auto insurance premiums are likely to increase significantly and remain high for several years. You may need to find specialized DUI insurance if your insurer drops you.
- Professional licenses: Certain professional licenses may be at risk or harder to obtain with this type of conviction on your record.
Seeking Legal Help for DUI Hit-and-Run Charges in California
Los Angeles DUI Attorney can help you fight DUI hit-and-run charges in California. We understand the complexities of California DUI and hit-and-run laws and are committed to aggressive representation for our clients.
Contact Los Angeles DUI Attorney now to schedule a consultation. We’re here to listen, provide guidance about your charges and what to expect, and fight for your freedom.
