Hit and Run Lawyer: Get Legal Help Now!

At Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law, our criminal lawyers have seen it all when it comes to handling and helping people charged with hit and run cases in Greensboro, NC. Hit and Run charges, often leading to personal injury, can be something as minor as a bumper tap in a store parking lot to hitting someone crossing the street and then leaving the scene before police arrive, neglecting the victims involved. In North Carolina, please remember, it’s vital if you’re in a car accident to remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives. If you don’t, it could result in misdemeanor or even felony charges. Our criminal defense lawyers understand the nuances of hit and run cases, including fault determination, and how best to help someone who has left the scene of an accident, often providing crucial legal advice. Let’s go over hit and run charges together.

What should I do if I’m charged with Hit and Run in Greensboro, NC?

Our recommendation is to call our Hit & Run Lawyers in Greensboro as soon as possible at 336-379-0539. Our top rated hit and run lawyers understand the importance of protecting your record, working with your insurance company, and also, protecting your license when you have these charges. Because hit and run cases involve both the criminal justice system as well as the DMV system, we know how vital it is to protect your rights, secure fair compensation, and safeguard your record when charged with a hit a run case. Also note, hit and run is also referred to as leaving the scene of an accident. Probably the best term is hit and run leaving the scene of an accident without speaking with law enforcement, which is the way the statute reads. The only time you’re allowed to move your vehicle after an accident is if it would be dangerous for you car, or for people that your vehicle remain in that same position. It’s best to leave your car where it is until police arrive, and let them advise you on whether you can move your car and where to move it to.

What are the elements of Hit and Run in North Carolina?

For hit and run there are a number of a different varieties of the charge. Let’s start with the most basic, which is misdemeanor hit and run and then we’ll work our way through the felony level charges.

The elements of Misdemeanor Hit and Run, NCGS 20-166 are:

1. A person Drives;
2. A Vehicle;
3. That is Involved in a Crash, causing;
   1. Only Property Damage; OR
   2. Injury or Death to any person that is Not Apparent, AND
4. The person driving knows or reasonably should know that the vehicle was involved in a crash AND
   1. Willfully fails to immediately stop at the scene of the crash,
   2. Willfully fails to remain with the vehicle at the scene of a reportable crash until a law enforcement officer completes an investigations or authorizes the driver to leave and the vehicle to be removed,
   3. Willfully facilitates, allows, or agrees to the removal of the vehicle before completion of an investigation by a law enforcement officer or before receiving consent from the officer, or
   4. Fails to give his or her name, address and driver’s license and license plate number to the driver or occupant of any other vehicle involved in the crash or to any person whose property is damaged in the crash.

What level of a crime is Hit and Run Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

The most basic type of hit and run is a misdemeanor level charge. In North Carolina, misdemeanor hit and run is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Misdemeanors in North Carolina range from Class 3, which is the lowest level misdemeanor which would be if you were caught with less than half an ounce of marijuana, all the way up to A1, which would be an assault on a female charge or assault on a government official. To put a Class 1 misdemeanor into perspective, think of it as the second highest level misdemeanor criminal charge in North Carolina. We have created the sentencing chart below so you can better understand how a Class 1 Misdemeanor is punished in North Carolina.

Am I facing jail time for hit and run charges?

For a misdemeanor hit and run, generally not, but if you have prior convictions on your record you could get up to 45 days in jail and if you have five or more conviction dates you could end up with up to a 120 day jail sentence. For felony level hit and run charges, you will be facing prison time and this is why it’s vital to seek legal advice from a top rated criminal defense lawyer in Greensboro so we can assess your situation and help you with your hit and run leaving the scene of an accident case.

After I’ve been arrested and served with Hit and Run charges, what happens next?

After you’ve been served or arrested for a hit and run charge the next step is going to be you’ll have court dates. These court dates typically will fall between a month to two months after you’ve been arrested. Generally, the district attorney in Guilford County will look at the file to see what the allegations are and then communicate with the officer the day of court. Every police officer and sheriff has a scheduled court date and those court dates are between a month and two months out, allowing time for the insurance company to assess any claims. The Guilford County DA’s office will put your case on the officers court date so that way they can speak with them about their perspective about what happened and why you were charged with hit and run, which includes the process of fault determination. This conversation will lead into a conversation with your attorney about the State of North Carolina’s perspective on your case.

Our criminal attorneys receive a lot of phone calls from clients attempting to figure out their next court date. If you need help locating your court date, use the button below, type in your last name, then your first name to check the court date. For example, Smith,John – would look up John Smith’s court dates. You can use the system provided by the North Carolina Judicial Branch to check your pending court dates.

With a Hit & Run charge, will I need to be in court?

When it comes to his and run cases, our Greensboro criminal lawyers focuses on lining up the details necessary to put your case in the best situation possible. This usually will take a couple of court dates as we speak with the officers and get an idea of what the State of North Carolina’s case is against you. If we feel that there is a good opportunity to win your case at trial for a hit and run charge, we will set it for trial and then let you know that you need to be in court.

It’s important to note that, in some instances, the DA’s office will mark your file where you must be present at your next court date to discuss any matters related to compensation. If this happens we will text you this information and if you have any questions you can give us a call. Typically, this notice will be a couple of weeks to a month prior to your court date to give you time to rearrange your schedule the day of court to be there.

What makes a Hit & Run a Felony?

We’re often asked the question of what separates a misdemeanor hit and run from a felony hit and run charge? And the simplest explanation is whether there were victims involved, whether personal injury occurred, and how serious were those injuries?

Hit and run cases are tough because they’re accidents, and dealing with an insurance company to secure proper compensation after such incidents can be extremely challenging. The dilemma is always what happened after the accident, and how fault determination will impact the outcome. Accidents happen and often they don’t turn into criminal charges, but leaving the scene of an accident before law enforcement arrives is a crime. And something as simple as a fender bender which may or may not have resulted in a citation or a warning, now turns into a felony. Be cautious of this as our hit and run lawyers have represented countless people charged in a personal injury accident, but they didn’t wait on law enforcement to arrive.

Felony Hit & Run is a Class F Felony and when you look at the sentencing chart below you can see that there is a pretty wide range of sentences one can receive depending on their prior record level. Our felony criminal lawyers understand how to protect people who have felony hit and run cases and know just how important it is that you and your case receive the best possible defense and legal advice.

What are Defenses to Hit & Run Cases?

A common defense is that you honestly and earnestly did not know that your vehicle was in a car accident. This is an interesting question depending on a number of factors including the statements of the driver of the other vehicle, other witnesses on scene, the level of the damage, etc.

But what if it’s a clear accident, no question that everyone involved would have known about it, what then? There is an exception in the hit and run statute that provides a person may leave the scene of an accident if staying at the scene places the driver or other a significant risk of injury.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hit and Run Cases

Navigating a hit and run charge can be complex, but with the right information, you can better understand your situation and the steps to take. Below are some frequently asked questions to guide you.

What do I do if I’m charged with hit and run?

Call our experienced hit and run lawyers in Greensboro immediately at 336-379-0539 for personalized legal advice and support.

What constitutes a hit and run in North Carolina?

Hit and run involves leaving the scene of an accident without stopping, providing your information, or waiting for law enforcement to arrive.

How serious are hit and run charges?

Hit and run charges can range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class F felony, depending on the circumstances and whether personal injury is involved.

Will I face jail time for a hit and run charge?

While misdemeanor charges may not always result in jail time, prior convictions can increase the chances. Felony charges often entail prison time.

What are my next steps after being charged?

You will have court dates scheduled, generally one to two months after your arrest, where the case details will be reviewed and discussed.

Do I need to be present in court?

Your presence may be required at certain court dates, especially if the DA’s office necessitates discussing compensation or specific case matters.

What elevates a hit and run to a felony?

A hit and run becomes a felony if the incident involved personal injury or severe property damage, significantly impacting the victims.

What are common defenses for hit and run cases?

Defenses may include not knowing that an accident occurred or that remaining at the scene posed a significant risk of injury.

How should I handle insurance claims?

It’s crucial to work with your lawyer and insurance company to ensure fair compensation and proper handling of the situation.

What should I avoid after a hit and run incident?

Never leave the scene of an accident without law enforcement’s authorization unless staying poses immediate danger. Always provide your contact information and cooperate with authorities.

This is why you should contact our top rated hit and run lawyers in Greensboro, NC – our law firm handles Hit & Run cases in Guilford County & Randolph County – Greensboro, High Point & Asheboro Lawyers to help with your Hit and Run charges.

Call Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law, at (336) 379-0539  to schedule a free, in-depth consultation with our experienced lawyers.

Understanding North Carolina Hit and Run Laws

Your search for a dedicated hit and run lawyer in Greensboro ends with Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law. Our team brings unparalleled expertise in navigating the complexities of hit and run cases, ensuring your rights and future are safeguarded.

Reach out to our accomplished attorneys today, who are poised to offer immediate legal counsel and build a robust defense. Time is of the essence; every moment counts.

We offer comprehensive support, handling both the criminal aspects and DMV implications of your case, protecting your license and record. Trust in our experience and commitment to your best outcome.

With deep knowledge of North Carolina’s legal landscape, we stand ready to defend you against misdemeanor and felony charges while guiding you through the intricate legal process, ensuring you are fully informed and prepared at every step.

Legal Consequences for Leaving the Scene

Navigating the legal complexities of a hit and run case requires an experienced advocate who understands both the criminal and civil repercussions of such charges. At Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, we bring both expertise and a determination to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

With our profound understanding of North Carolina’s statutes and a strategic approach to defense, we are committed to safeguarding your rights and future.

Our firm’s comprehensive approach addresses not only the immediate legal challenges but also the long-term impacts on your driving record and insurance status.

In hit and run cases, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Engaging with seasoned legal professionals from the outset can significantly influence the trajectory of your case and the protection of your rights. Trust in our dedication to guide you through this legal maze and work tirelessly to ensure you are fully supported.

Defending Against Hit and Run Charges

When facing the daunting reality of hit and run charges, securing adept legal representation becomes imperative to safeguarding your future. At Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law, we bring an expertly honed focus on providing the most strategic defense for our clients.

Understanding the intricate facets of North Carolina’s hit and run laws is crucial. Our capable attorneys, equipped with in-depth knowledge and a profound sense of dedication, stand ready to navigate the complexities unique to your case.

An arrest for leaving the scene can lead to severe consequences, spanning both criminal implications and impacts on your driving record. Swift legal intervention is essential to ensure that your rights are protected and that potential penalties are minimized.

Our firm prides itself on comprehensive support, addressing not only the immediate intricacies but also long-term considerations like insurance complications and DMV repercussions. Trust in our experience to provide the robust defense you need.

How a Lawyer Can Help Your Case

Navigating a hit and run charge can seem overwhelming. Yet, with the right legal partner by your side, it is entirely possible to turn this challenging situation around.

Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law, offer the robust defense and nuanced understanding necessary to navigate these complex cases. Our hit and run lawyers in Greensboro are prepared to dive into every detail of your case, ensuring that your rights are protected from the outset. It’s not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about securing your future.

Our lawyers excel at analyzing the intricacies of hit and run charges, from reviewing crash reports to evaluating potential defenses. We know that each case is unique and, therefore, demands a personalized approach.

With experience spanning both criminal law and DMV proceedings, our attorneys are well-suited to manage cases that have far-reaching implications. Trust in our commitment to provide the most strategic and comprehensive defense available.

The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Reach out to Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson today for a consultation and take the first step towards safeguarding your legal and driving record.

Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Incident

Ensuring that your rights are safeguarded is crucial when facing hit and run charges. Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law, provide the legal expertise necessary to navigate this challenging landscape.

Consult with one of our esteemed hit and run lawyers to start formulating a robust defense. Your future is too important to leave to chance.

This legal journey can often be complex, but rest assured, our seasoned attorneys are equipped to guide you every step of the way. By acting swiftly, you maximize your chances of minimizing potential repercussions, so don’t wait—reach out to us immediately.

Greensboro Hit and Run Lawyer Google Reviews:

Client Review

“Jason Aycoth is the best lawyer in the city! The treat you like family and truly have your best interest! If you need anything this is the place to go! I highly recommend them! Best Greensboro criminal defense lawyers!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️”                              July 19, 2022

Marvin W.
5 / 5 Stars