It is difficult to imagine what causes someone to flee the scene of an accident, but it still happens often in San Diego. Since the beginning of the new year, there have been at least 8 hit-and-run accidents in San Diego County, 6 of which occurred in February, according to NBC San Diego. Much of the time, the perpetrators themselves are unsure why they fled the scene of an accident. One San Diego criminal defense attorney said, “I have people in my office on a regular basis saying, ‘I have no idea why I did this.’” Perhaps they are unsure why they fled due to the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the collision.
Often times, the perpetrator of a hit-and-run flees the scene of an accident to avoid the prospect of getting a DUI. “The penalties for a non-injury hit-and-run are significantly less than what they are for a non-injury DUI,” said the attorney. Those convicted of the former would face about $1,000 in fines, 12 hours of drivers’ education and two points on their record. Those convicted of a non-injury DUI face $23,000 in fines, three-quarters of a year in a “First Conviction Program” and a suspended license.
The real danger of a hit-and-run accident is that the perpetrator has no idea of the victim’s condition. If the victim is seriously injured and needs assistance, the perpetrator is likely the closest person to provide it, assuming there are no witnesses. If the victim is left with their injuries, “the courts will be a lot more stringent and more zealous in pursuit for stricter penalties,” said the attorney.
Lastly, leaving the scene of an accident, regardless of the presence of drugs or alcohol, often converts the accident from a civil to a criminal case.
San Diego Lawyer Who Handles Hit-And-Run Accident Cases
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, our San Diego car accident attorneys can help. We understand that hit-and-run cases can be difficult, but we will work hand-in-hand with accident reconstruction experts to identify the party responsible for your injuries. The Bonnici Law Group, APC legal team will bring swift justice to those responsible for your injuries and recover the full compensation that you deserve for the emotional, physical and financial hardships incurred by the incident. For more information, contact us. To schedule a free consultation with one of our San Diego car accident lawyers, call our firm today at (619) 853-5101.
[Did You Know: According to the California Highway Patrol, about 50 percent of hit-and-runs involve pedestrians.]
Bonnici Law Group, APC—San Diego injury attorney
Source: http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/Why-Drivers-Flee-Accident-Scene-Could-Be-Tied-to-Penalty-247083691.html, http://www.chp.ca.gov/switrs/pdf/2011-sec7.pdf