You didn’t plan to be in an accident. You certainly didn’t plan to leave the scene.
But now? You’re being charged with felony hit and run in California—and suddenly, everything is at stake.
This isn’t a parking lot fender bender. A felony hit-and-run can carry years in prison, crushing fines, and a permanent record that will follow you for the rest of your life. If you’ve already been contacted by law enforcement or received a court summons, the time to act isn’t tomorrow. It’s right now.
What Makes It a Felony Hit and Run in California?
Let’s get clear on the law.
Under California Vehicle Code § 20001, you commit a felony hit and run when:
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You’re involved in a car accident,
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Someone other than yourself is injured or killed, and
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You leave the scene without stopping to provide assistance or identifying yourself.
It doesn’t matter whether the accident was your fault. The crime is in failing to stop and render aid.
And here’s the kicker: even a minor injury—a bruise, whiplash, a cut—can upgrade what might otherwise be a misdemeanor into a felony. That means prosecutors have a low bar to charge you with a serious crime.
What Are the Penalties for a Felony Hit and Run?
If convicted, you could face:
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2 to 4 years in state prison
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Fines between $1,000 and $10,000
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Restitution to injured parties
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A permanent criminal record
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Loss of your driver’s license
And if someone died in the crash—even unintentionally—the penalties can skyrocket. Prosecutors may even stack other charges, like vehicular manslaughter, on top.
This isn’t just about jail. It’s about your job, your family, your future.
But I Panicked. Doesn’t That Matter?
It should. And a good defense lawyer will make sure it does.
The law may be harsh, but it isn’t blind to the human element. Many people flee the scene not because they’re criminals—but because they’re overwhelmed, in shock, or afraid.
You might have:
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Feared immigration consequences
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Not realized someone was injured
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Thought it was just a fender bender
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Been disoriented or concussed yourself
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Panicked and acted out of instinct
These are real factors. But unless they’re presented properly in court, they won’t make a difference. That’s why getting the right legal help is absolutely critical.
The Role of Intent — And How Prosecutors Twist It
One of the most important (and misunderstood) elements of a felony hit and run is intent. Did you knowingly leave the scene? Did you understand someone was injured?
Here’s where things get dangerous:
Prosecutors will often assume you must have known. They’ll argue that no “reasonable person” would have walked away. They’ll say your failure to call 911, to leave a note, or to return means you acted intentionally.
Without someone in your corner to push back, that narrative can stick—and send you straight to prison.
How a Defense Lawyer Can Protect You
You may feel like it’s too late. Like the damage is done. Like there’s no use fighting. But that’s not true.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can:
1. Challenge the Assumptions
Were you aware someone was hurt? Was it dark, chaotic, loud? Did you believe the other person wasn’t injured or had already left? Your lawyer can introduce doubt—doubt that may keep you out of prison.
2. Reduce the Charges
In many cases, an attorney can negotiate a reduction to a misdemeanor or even a civil settlement, especially if you’ve taken steps to make things right (like turning yourself in or offering restitution).
3. Control the Narrative
Without legal representation, the prosecution tells your story. With the right attorney, you take that power back.
Why You Need to Act Now
The longer you wait, the worse it gets.
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Witnesses forget details
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Evidence disappears
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Prosecutors build their case
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You risk saying something that can—and will—be used against you
What you say to insurance companies, to police, or even in text messages can land in front of a judge.
That’s why your first call should be to an experienced defense attorney—ideally, one who understands California’s vehicle code, felony enhancements, and how to defend against emotionally charged accusations.
If you’ve been accused of a felony hit and run in California, there’s one team we recommend without hesitation.
Meet David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys
When your future’s on the line, you don’t want just any law firm. You want a team that has been in the trenches, defended serious felony cases, and helped good people get a second chance.
David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys is that team.
What makes them different?
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Experience with high-stakes cases: They regularly defend clients charged with serious felonies—including hit-and-run, vehicular crimes, and offenses involving injury or death.
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A client-first approach: You’re not a case number. You’re a person with a story that deserves to be told.
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A winning strategy: Whether negotiating a dismissal, going to trial, or reducing a felony to a lesser charge, their firm fights with purpose.
They understand that one mistake, one moment of fear, shouldn’t define the rest of your life.
What Can You Do Right Now?
Here’s what we recommend—today:
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Stop talking to anyone about the incident (especially law enforcement)
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Do not communicate with the alleged victim or witnesses
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Don’t post about the situation online
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Contact an attorney immediately
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Gather any records or documentation you have about the accident
The faster you act, the more control you have over the outcome.
You Deserve a Second Chance
Being charged with a felony hit and run doesn’t make you a criminal. It makes you someone in a tough position who needs the right help.
You have a story. You have rights. You have hope.
But to protect all that, you need a legal team who will listen to you, fight for you, and defend you with everything they’ve got.
Start now by calling David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys and scheduling a consultation. They’ll help you understand your options—and your way forward.
Want to understand the full legal breakdown before you call? Visit their page on felony hit and run in California for essential insights on the law, penalties, and defense strategies.
