<![CDATA[hit-and-run charges in California - Law Offices of William W. Bruzzo]]> https://www.bruzzolaw.com/blog/tags/hit-and-run-charges-in-california/ Tue, 15 Oct 2024 00:45:39 GMT en-us <![CDATA[Second Hit & Run Offense Penalties]]> https://www.bruzzolaw.com/blog/second-hit-run-offense-penalties/ https://www.bruzzolaw.com/blog/second-hit-run-offense-penalties/ Fri, 26 Apr 2024 19:23:05 GMT Earlier this year, Rebecca Grossman was found guilty of second-degree murder in the hit-and-run deaths of Mark Iskander, 11, and brother Jacob Iskander, 8. The hit-and-run occurred on September 29, 2020, in Los Angeles County. Grossman fatally struck the young brothers, who were in a designated crosswalk, with her white Mercedes. She had been driving…

]]> Earlier this year, Rebecca Grossman was found guilty of second-degree murder in the hit-and-run deaths of Mark Iskander, 11, and brother Jacob Iskander, 8. The hit-and-run occurred on September 29, 2020, in Los Angeles County. Grossman fatally struck the young brothers, who were in a designated crosswalk, with her white Mercedes. She had been driving 81 mph then tapped her brakes to slow down to 73 mph seconds before the collision, according to the data recorder in her vehicle.

The jury unanimously found Grossman guilty on all counts, including two felony counts each of second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter, as well as one felony count of hit-and-run driving resulting in death. Grossman faces 34 years to life in prison.

As this case makes clear, hit and run can result in serious consequences. If you are facing allegations of a hit and run offense, call us today to speak with an Orange County criminal defense lawyer.

Hit and Run Offenses: The Basics

A hit and run offense occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to exchange information or provide assistance to the injured parties. In California, it is a criminal offense, and the severity of the penalties depends on various factors, including the level of injury or property damage involved.

In cases of a second hit and run offense, the penalties are more severe. The court takes into account your previous conviction and can impose stricter penalties to discourage repeat offenses. It is critical to seek the guidance and representation of an experienced Orange County criminal defense lawyer if you find yourself in this situation.

Penalties for a Second Hit & Run Offense

The penalties for a second hit and run offense in Orange County can vary depending on the circumstances of the case, but generally include:

  • Mandatory Jail Time: A second hit and run offense often comes with mandatory jail time. The length of the sentence depends on various factors, including the level of injury or property damage.
  • Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for a second hit and run offense will result in a permanent criminal record, which can have long-term consequences on your personal and professional life.
  • License Suspension: Your driver’s license may be suspended for a certain period as a result of a second hit and run offense. This can significantly impact your ability to commute, work, and carry out your daily activities.
  • Increased Fines: The fines for a second hit and run offense are typically higher than those for a first offense. You could be facing fines ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
  • Probation: The court may impose a probationary period as part of your sentence, where you are required to comply with certain conditions, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer and avoiding any further criminal activity.
  • Restitution: If you caused any property damage or physical injuries as a result of the hit and run, you may be required to pay restitution to the victims to compensate for their losses.
  • Vehicle Impoundment: In some cases, the court may order the impoundment of your vehicle involved in the hit and run offense. This can result in additional expenses and inconveniences.

Contact an Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer Now!

Have a skilled Orange County criminal defense lawyer by your side. The Law Offices of William Bruzzo provides you with the legal support and aggressive representation you are entitled to. Schedule a free case review and legal consultation with us now.

]]> <![CDATA[Hit and Run Offenses in California]]> https://www.bruzzolaw.com/blog/hit-and-run-offenses-in-california/ https://www.bruzzolaw.com/blog/hit-and-run-offenses-in-california/ Fri, 04 Aug 2023 11:43:00 GMT Hit-and-run offenses in California involve a driver’s failure to stop and provide required information after being involved in a motor vehicle collision. The California Vehicle Code (CVC) distinguishes between two main types of hit-and-run offenses: misdemeanor hit-and-run and felony hit-and-run. If you are being accused of causing a hit-and-run accident, it is imperative that you…

]]> Hit-and-run offenses in California involve a driver’s failure to stop and provide required information after being involved in a motor vehicle collision. The California Vehicle Code (CVC) distinguishes between two main types of hit-and-run offenses: misdemeanor hit-and-run and felony hit-and-run.

If you are being accused of causing a hit-and-run accident, it is imperative that you do not delay in seeking legal counsel from an experienced California criminal defense attorney at The Law Offices of William W. Bruzzo.

Misdemeanor Hit and Run (CVC 20002)

      I. Elements of the Offense:

a. Misdemeanor hit and run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident involving only property damage without providing the necessary information to the affected party or law enforcement. The driver must provide their name, address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to the injured party or report the incident to local law enforcement.

II. Penalties Conviction for misdemeanor hit and run can lead to penalties such as fines of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to six months. Additionally, the defendant’s driving record may be affected, resulting in increased insurance premiums.

Felony Hit and Run (CVC 20001)

      I. Elements of the Offense

a. Felony hit and run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident involving injury or death to another person. The driver is required to provide aid to the injured party and report the incident to law enforcement. Failing to do so can result in felony charges.

II. Penalties: Conviction for a felony hit and run can result in more severe penalties, including significant fines, imprisonment for up to four years in state prison, and a felony record. The driver’s driving privileges may also be revoked, and they could face civil liabilities in addition to criminal consequences.

Aggravating Factors and Enhanced Penalties

      I. Previous Convictions: Having prior hit-and-run convictions on one’s record can lead to enhanced penalties, including longer jail or prison sentences and higher fines.

II. DUI Involvement If a hit-and-run incident involves a driver who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they could face DUI charges in addition to hit-and-run charges. This can lead to even more severe consequences, as DUI offenses are heavily penalized in California.

Defenses to Hit and Run Charges

      I. Lack of Knowledge: In some cases, the defendant may be unaware that they were involved in an accident. If the prosecution cannot prove that the defendant knowingly left the scene, this can serve as a defense.

II. Emergency Situations: If a driver leaves the scene of an accident to seek immediate medical attention for themselves or another person, it may be a valid defense, provided that they report the incident to law enforcement as soon as possible.

Facing hit-and-run charges in California can be daunting, given the potential consequences and complexities of the legal process. It is crucial for individuals charged with hit-and-run offenses to seek experienced legal representation to navigate the legal system effectively.


At the Bruzzo Law Firm, our Orange County criminal defense attorney knows the law and can help you with your hit-and-run charges. The firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients and providing expert legal guidance throughout the legal proceedings. If you or someone you know is facing hit-and-run charges, contacting the Bruzzo Law Firm can make a significant difference in building a solid defense strategy and securing the best possible outcome.

]]>