Vista Hit and run charges stemming from an accident in Vista, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Escondido or anywhere in North County are serious. If there is property damage only, it is a misdemeanor offense which still carries possible local jail time, fines, and possible restitution. Additionally, you can lose your license and have your vehicle impounded. Many times people are involved in an accident and flee because they have been drinking and they do not want a DUI. This is a misdemeanor if there was property damage only. A felony Hit and Run involves an accident where another person is injured. It does not matter whether you are at fault in the accident, it is illegal to flee the scene without exchanging information or rendering reasonable assistance.
Many times the vehicle is abandoned at the scene. Law enforcement impound the car and hold it as evidence. People call us and want to know “What do I do now?” After getting all the information from the client, we make contact with law enforcement hwo are trying to contact them and we try to see what the status of the case is and if we can get the car released from impound. Sometimes, we are able to avoid an arrest and make arrangements to get the vehicle released, especially on a misdemeanor. On a felony, we try to arrange bail before any surrender and avoid making any incriminating statements.
We have been in the same office for over 30 years directly across from the Vista Courthouse. Call us for a free consultation at 760-941-5720 and we’ll discuss your unique circumstances and how the Christoph Law Offices can help you. We have defended hundreds of Hit and Run cases in the past 30+ years, and we know what needs to be done to get the best resolution.