Avoid Hit and Run Charges: What to Do in an Accident
Posted on April 4, 2008
Filed Under Criminal Law, Hit & Run, Law |
In California, it is against the law to leave the scene of a motor vehicle accident without providing driver documentation and, if there is an injury, staying to provide reasonable assistance to the injured. Those who fail to do so can be charged under California hit and run laws. Depending on the seriousness of the accident, drivers involved in a hit and run accident can be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony.
To avoid hit and run charges, drivers should be aware of their responsibilities if they are involved in an accident. If you have an accident or are involved in a vehicle collision, California law requires you to stop, find the owner of the damaged property, and exchange driver documentation. If the owner of the damaged property cannot be located, before leaving the scene the driver must leave a note providing the facts of the accident and his driver documentation in a prominently visible location and report the accident to the California Highway Patrol or local police. If the accident or collision results in injuries, the driver is additionally required to remain at the scene and provide reasonable assistance to the injured.
The following driver documentation must be provided in an accident:
- Your full name
- Valid license number and state of issue
- Vehicle ID number (VIN)
- Insurance carrier’s name, address, phone number
- Insurance policy number
Leaving the scene of an accident, no matter how minor, without following these instructions is considered a hit and run accident and can result in criminal charges.
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