What can happen for an alleged hit and run?
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What can happen for an alleged hit and run?
I was notified by CHP that another party has reported a hit and run against me, involving a high-speed chase. The other driver took a photo of my license plate, and then called 911 and reported that my vehicle was trying to get away at high speed. There is no damage to my vehicle and I did not make contact, but there are supposedly scratches (small paint rubbing) on the other car. With my car undamaged, I don’t get it. I went down to CHP the following morning to show them my vehicle and identify myself (without being asked) and explained a near collision. The officer informed me of the 911 call, and alleged high-speed pursuit by the other party. If I did not know I made contact with the other vehicle, can I still be charged? Also, both myself and my passenger made statements that there was no high-speed chase – no signs whatsoever that someone was following or attempting to contact us. CHP seemed puzzled but gave the impression it’s a “he said, she said” issue. The 911 tape will determine the course of action. So, if I was not aware of contact, (which I was not) was not speeding, and its only ther other drivers word on the 911 phone call, how would this situation typically result? Again, no damage on my vehicle whatsoever, so there’s no way (in my mind) I could have hit and run.
Asked on April 26, 2011 under Accident Law, California
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You need to immediately seek counsel. Clearly something happened to cause the driver to contact 911. If indeed this driver lied about what actually occurred (could happen but usually simultaneous statements made while an event is occurring are usually considered more reliable than if the driver waited until he or she got home and made the call), then nothing will happen to you. Your lawyer will need to subpoena a copy of the tape and listen to it, as well. If you didn't make contact directly but let's say you hit something in the road that ricocheted off the tires of the car and hit the other person's car, you may still be liable for damages but not leaving the scene of an accident but that typically requires knowledge something occurred.
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