Hit and Run: A Crime in LA and the NFL

Posted on June 4, 2008
Filed Under Criminal Law, DUI, Hit & Run, Law, Laws, Los Angeles |

Former UC Berkeley star and current Buffalo Bills running back Marshawn Lynch was involved in a hit-and-run early Saturday morning, May 31st.  A vehicle registered to Lynch struck a woman at 3:30 am in Buffalo, NY, however it is unclear whether or not Lynch was driving the automobile.

According to California law, the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to any person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.  Leaving the scene of the accident is known as a hit-and-run, and while there are varying degrees (side swiping a car is obviously not as serious as hitting someone) drivers must stop and at least exchange insurance information should there be an accident.

Serious hit-and-run violations including jail time of up to four years, fines up to $10,000 and loss and/or suspension of license.  The punishment can increase dramatically if the hit-and-run violation involved a driving under the influence (DUI) charge, that will add points on ones license, increased fines and other penalties.

Some hit-and-run violations involve paparazzi laws as well, with celebrities such as Britney Spears, Paris Hilton and others involved in accidents involving the celebrity media photographers.  This law can be slightly more complex, however all hit-and-run violations are to be taken seriously and an attorney should be contacted immediately.

Written by Joe M

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