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What are California's hit-and-run laws?
Is a hit and run a serious charge in California? My brother grazed a car and drove away last weekend, and I was trying to explain the potential consequences to him.
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
A hit and run is no joke! The state of
California
’s hit-and-run law dictates that you can be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the accident.A hit and run is always a felony if someone else is injured or killed as a result of the driver’s actions. You could also incur a felony charge if the damages are significant and/or expensive.
This could lead to heavy fines and jail time between 24 and 48 months. You might even spend up to five years in jail if you’re also convicted of DUI or vehicular manslaughter.
A less serious hit and run—like grazing someone’s car—will probably just be a misdemeanor. But it could still lead to 90 days to a year in jail, as well as court costs and victim restitution.
Any marks on your driving record can send your insurance prices through the roof. With the
Jerry
app, however, you’ll always know that you’re getting the best rates available. Download the app and answer some quick questions to see if you’re paying too much for your insurance.View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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