Virginia Hit & Run Defense Attorney
Charged with leaving the scene of an accident? Mattox Law provides aggressive legal representation to protect your record, defend your rights, and minimize penalties. Call today for a free consultation.
What is a Hit & Run in Virginia?
Under Virginia Code § 46.2-894, any driver involved in an accident must stop at the scene, provide their information, and assist injured individuals if necessary. Failure to do so can result in serious legal consequences, even if the accident was minor.
Hit & run charges in Virginia can involve:
- Unattended vehicle/property damage – Failing to leave a note or report the incident.
- Attended vehicle accident – Fleeing without exchanging information with the other driver.
- Hit & run involving injury or death – A felony charge with severe penalties.
Even if you left the scene due to panic or confusion, you could still be prosecuted. At Mattox Law, we investigate the facts and fight to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Penalties for a Hit & Run in Virginia
The severity of a hit & run charge depends on the circumstances:
- Property Damage Under $1,000 – Class 1 Misdemeanor
- Up to 12 months in jail
- Up to $2,500 in fines
- 6 demerit points on your driving record
- Property Damage Over $1,000 – Class 5 Felony
- 1 to 10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail for lesser penalties)
- Fines up to $2,500
- Possible license suspension
- Hit & Run with Injury or Death – Felony
- Mandatory prison time depending on severity
- Significant fines & long-term license revocation
- Permanent criminal record
Hit & run charges can also lead to increased insurance premiums, background check issues, and long-term employment challenges.
How Mattox Law Defends Hit & Run Cases
What if I didn’t realize I hit something?
Virginia law requires drivers to stop if they knew or should have reasonably known an accident occurred. If you were unaware of the collision, we can argue lack of knowledge to challenge the charges.
Can I still be charged if I left but later reported the accident?
Yes, but reporting the accident as soon as possible can sometimes reduce penalties. We can present this as a mitigating factor to negotiate a lesser charge.
What if I wasn’t the one driving?
In some cases, the prosecution may have difficulty proving who was behind the wheel. We can challenge the evidence, including witness testimony and camera footage, to create doubt in the case against you.
How can I get my hit & run charge reduced or dismissed?
We explore several defense strategies, including:
- Lack of evidence – If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving, the case may be dismissed.
- Mistaken identity – If your vehicle was involved but you were not driving, we can challenge the charge.
- No intent to flee – If you attempted to report the accident but were unable to immediately, we use this as mitigating evidence.
Will I lose my license if I’m convicted?
A hit & run conviction can lead to license suspension or revocation, depending on the case severity. However, we may be able to negotiate a restricted license so you can continue driving for essential needs.
The best defense is a proactive one—contact us immediately to discuss your options.
