Definition

Misdemeanor Hit and Run under California Vehicle Code Section 20002 A, is a criminal offense and it is normally filed as either a felony or  misdemeanor. Misdemeanor Hit and Run is the willful act of abandoning the scene of an accident, when a damage to a car or property has occurs as a result – regardless of who caused the accident.  

Example

A common scenario of  Misdemeanor Hit and Run is when someone hits a parked vehicle and fails to report this, or hits the bumper of another vehicle, then drives off without acknowledging the accident. There are numerous cases of hit and run that can be illustrated, including hitting or damaging a government sign –then leaving as if nothing happened. It’s the duty of drivers to report such incidents.

Elements of the Crime

In order to take an Misdemeanor Hit and Run CPC 20002 A case to trial, certain elements of the crime will have to be proven. These include:

  • That the defendant was involved in an accident and was aware of this
  • The defendant abandoned the scene of the accident, and did not provide his or her identifying information

Punishments for CPC 20002 A

These penalties are to be determined by a judge and he/she will make a decision based on the circumstances surrounding the case, and also an individual’s criminal history.

When found guilty of hit and run when a property or car is damaged, it is a  misdemeanor punishable by one year in jail and a one thousand dollar fine. There’s also an informal probation of up to three years, compensation of the cost of damages, and minus two-points on the driver’s license.

Legal Defenses for California Penal Code 20002 A

A good lawyer can present many legal and valid defenses for Misdemeanor Hit and Run charges under California Vehicle Code 20002 A to prove someone’s innocence. A legal defense team can argue that the defendant was falsely identified, or they were not present at the scene of an accident. Several other defenses are available that can be presented by an experienced lawyer.

Learn more about other California Section Penal Codes here.