Defenses

Our clients are often surprised when they are charged with a Los Angeles Hit and Run, when they never directly hit anything. They inquire as to how they could possibly be charged with a Hit and Run, when there was no contact with any other vehicle, or other object. Unfortunately, it is possible to be charged with a Hit and Run in a situation where you have had no contact. The good news, however, is that there is an available defense.

In order to fully understand the arguments and the defense that an experienced and knowledgeable Los Angeles Hit and Run lawyer can prepare for you, it is important to first understand the factual scenario that can give rise to a no contact hit and run.

Lets assume that David is driving home from work. He is in a rush to get home, and abruptly changes lanes on the freeway. The abrupt change cuts off a motorcyclist who swerves to avoid rear ending David. In his swerve, he loses control of his bike and crashes into the middle divider. He suffers from leg injuries. David does not even notice that the motorcyclist swerved and crashed. David continues on his way home. Several witnesses who see the event, are able to get David’s license plate and inform authorities.

A common misconception among many of our clients is that the main reason a person is arrested for a Hit and Run in Los Angeles is because they have struck another person’s property or person. If that were the case, the case is best addressed in civil court. The main issue in a Hit and Run case is that the person who may have struck another’s property, or struck another person, left the scene of the accident.

There are many reasons a person may choose to leave the scene of an accident. Some of the reasons may be enough to interest officers and prosecutors, and some may not. If the reason is one that could be a possible defense for leaving the scene, officers will note it in their reports, and prosecutors will consider that fact before filing their case.

Regardless of the reason, one thing is for sure; there must be evidentiary support for the reason, and it must be presented to officers and prosecutors in a manner that convinces them that it is a valid defense. A Los Angeles Hit and Run attorney, like those at our firm, are knowledgeable and have years of experience in presenting these types of defenses to the authorities.

Articles Posted in Defenses

Defenses in a No Contact Los Angeles Hit and Run Case

Defenses for Leaving the Scene in a Los Angeles Hit and Run Case