The Law Offices of William W. Bruzzo defends drivers across Orange County who left the scene of a crash, whether the contact damaged a parked car or hurt another person. Attorney William W. Bruzzo, a former U.S. Marine Corps Judge Advocate who has defended hit and run cases in Orange County’s Harbor, North, West, and Central Justice Centers for more than 30 years, has seen how a moment of panic at the scene can turn into a felony charge.

What Counts as a Hit and Run in California

A hit and run is the act of leaving an accident scene without stopping to identify yourself and share your information. The law expects every driver involved in a crash to stop, give a name and contact details, and help anyone who is hurt.

Even minor contact can trigger a charge. Clipping a mirror in a parking lot and driving off can meet the definition, because the duty to stop applies no matter how small the damage seems.

Misdemeanor Versus Felony and What Makes the Difference

When a crash damages only property, the offense falls under Vehicle Code section 20002 and is charged as a misdemeanor, which can carry up to six months in county jail and a fine. 

When someone is injured or killed, the offense falls under Vehicle Code section 20001. That second statute is a wobbler, a charge prosecutors can file as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the facts. A felony version can carry far longer custody time and steeper fines. Because the exact exposure turns on the details of your case, our Orange County criminal defense attorney can review what you actually face rather than the worst headline number.

What to Do if You Are Charged in Orange County

Stay calm and avoid talking to investigators about what happened before you have counsel. Anything you say about leaving the scene can shape how the charge is filed.

Preserve what you remember and gather any record of the crash while it is fresh. Our firm handles these matters alongside the other criminal defense cases we take across the county, and an early call to our Orange County criminal defense lawyer often shapes whether a case stays a misdemeanor.

One Mistake Should Not Define You, Call The Law Offices of William W. Bruzzo

At the Law Offices of William W. Bruzzo, we know good people make split-second decisions under stress, and we work to keep one bad moment from following you for years. Our firm weighs the whole picture before the prosecution writes the story for you.

Call our firm at (714) 547-4636 or contact us online for a free consultation. El Abogado Habla Español.

What is Hit-and-Run?

Hit-and-run occurs when a person involved in an accident fails to stop and provide their contact information or render aid to the injured party. California Vehicle Code § 20002 prohibits leaving the scene of an accident without identifying oneself when someone else’s property was damaged. This means that if you are involved in an accident in Orange County, you are legally obligated to stay at the scene and provide your name, address, and vehicle registration information to the other party involved. Failure to do so can result in serious legal consequences.

Is Hit-and-Run a Criminal Offense?

Violating Vehicle Code § 20002 is considered a criminal offense. It is important to note that hit and run can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the accident. In cases where there are no injuries and only property damage, the offense is typically charged as a misdemeanor. However, if the accident involves injuries or fatalities, the offense may be charged as a felony.

California Vehicle Code § 20002 is a misdemeanor offense, punishable by a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. While this may seem like a significant penalty, it is considered a lesser offense compared to Felony Hit and Run. Felony Hit and Run involves leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in serious bodily injury or death, and carries much harsher penalties, including imprisonment and significant fines.

What Defenses are Available?

If you have been accused of hit and run in Orange County, it is important to consult with an experienced defense lawyer who can help build a strong defense strategy. Some possible defenses in hit and run cases include:

1. Lack of Knowledge: If you can demonstrate that you were not aware that an accident had occurred, you may be able to argue that you did not intentionally leave the scene.
2. Mistaken Identity: If the prosecution has not accurately identified you as the driver involved in the hit and run, you may be able to challenge their evidence and assert mistaken identity as a defense.
3. Lack of Evidence: If the prosecution does not have sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were involved in the hit and run, your defense lawyer may be able to challenge the validity of their case.

Navigating the legal complexities of hit and run cases can be overwhelming, especially if you are facing criminal charges. That’s why it is essential to have a skilled defense attorney by your side. The Law Office of William Bruzzo has been successfully representing clients in hit and run cases throughout Orange County and Southern California. With over 28 years of experience in criminal law, Mr. Bruzzo is committed to protecting your rights and providing you with the best possible defense.

Call an Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been accused of hit and run, don’t hesitate to contact the Law Office of William Bruzzo at (714) 547-4636 for knowledgeable and experienced legal assistance. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that your rights are fully protected.