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Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Fairfax, Virginia
Protecting Your Rights and Your Future After an Accident
Being accused of a hit and run in Virginia is a serious matter. Even if the accident caused only minor property damage, leaving the scene without following the law can lead to criminal charges, heavy fines, a suspended license, and even jail time. At Crowley Peritz Law, we know how overwhelming this situation can feel. Our goal is to protect your rights, challenge the state’s case, and pursue the best possible outcome for you.
Located in Fairfax, Virginia, our firm represents clients across Northern Virginia facing misdemeanor and felony hit and run charges. Whether you made a mistake in a moment of panic or you’re being unfairly accused, we’re here to provide the strong defense you need.
What Virginia Law Requires After an Accident
Virginia law (Code §§ 46.2-894 through 46.2-902) sets out specific duties for drivers and sometimes passengers after a crash. The law doesn’t use the term “hit and run,” but that’s the common name for failing to comply.
Duty to Stop — Attended Vehicles or Property, Injury, or Death (§ 46.2-894)
If anyone is injured, killed, or if another vehicle or property with someone present is damaged, a driver must:
- Stop immediately as close to the scene as possible.
- Provide their name, address, driver’s license, and registration number to law enforcement or the other party.
- Render reasonable assistance to anyone injured, including arranging or providing transport to medical care if needed.
- If injuries prevent immediate compliance, the driver must report the accident to police as soon as reasonably possible and make a reasonable effort to locate the other driver, occupant, or custodian of the damaged property.
Penalties:
- Class 5 felony (up to 10 years in prison) if injury, death, or property damage of $1,000 or more.
- Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail) if property damage is $1,000 or less.
Duties of Passengers — Attended Property (§ 46.2-895)
If the driver fails to stop, any passenger age 16 or older who knows of the crash must report it to law enforcement within 24 hours.
Penalties:
- Class 6 felony if someone is injured or killed.
- Class 1 misdemeanor if there is property damage.
(The Class 4 misdemeanor reduction for damage under $250 applies only to unattended-property cases.)
Duty of a Driver — Unattended Property (§ 46.2-896)
If property is damaged but unattended (like a parked car), the driver must:
- Make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or custodian and provide identifying information.
- If unable, leave a note in a conspicuous place with their name, address, license, and registration number.
- File a written report with law enforcement within 24 hours that includes contact info, date, time, location, and description of the damage.
Penalties:
- Class 4 misdemeanor if damage is less than $250.
- Class 1 misdemeanor if damage is $250 or more.
Duties of Passengers — Unattended Property (§ 46.2-897)
If the driver doesn’t stop, passengers age 16+ who know of the accident must report it within 24 hours.
Penalties:
- Class 1 misdemeanor if property damage is $250 or more.
- Class 4 misdemeanor if damage is under $250.
Additional Consequences (§ 46.2-901)
Courts may also suspend a driver’s license for up to 6 months when a crash involves property damage of more than $500—even in misdemeanor cases.
Building a Strong Defense
At Crowley Peritz Law, we understand that every case is unique. There are many reasons why someone might leave the scene of an accident, including fear, confusion, lack of awareness of damage, or even a medical emergency. Our defense strategies may include:
- Challenging whether you were the actual driver
- Showing you were unaware of any collision or damage
- Questioning the accuracy of witness statements or police reports
- Presenting evidence of mistaken identity
- Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative resolutions
Our attorneys carefully review every detail to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and fight for the best result possible.
Why Choose Crowley Peritz Law?
- Experienced in Virginia Traffic & Criminal Defense
We’ve successfully represented clients charged with hit and run in Fairfax and surrounding counties. - Personalized Defense
We take the time to understand your situation and build a strategy tailored to your needs. - Aggressive Advocacy
We know how prosecutors build their cases — and we know how to challenge them.
What should I do if I left the scene by mistake?
Return if possible, exchange information, and report to police immediately to limit potential charges.
What makes it a felony vs. a misdemeanor?
Damage under $1,000 = misdemeanor; injury, death, or damage over $1,000 = felony.
Can passengers be charged too?
Yes. Passengers 16+ must report within 24 hours or face penalties up to a felony.
What if the property was unattended?
You must leave a note with your info and report it to police within 24 hours.
Will I lose my license if convicted?
Yes. Suspensions can range from 6 months to a year, depending on severity.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today
If you’ve been charged with hit and run in Fairfax County or anywhere in Northern Virginia, you need an experienced defense attorney by your side right away.
Call Crowley Peritz Law at (703) 952-5279
Or Contact Us Online for a confidential consultation.
We proudly serve clients in Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, Vienna, and throughout Northern Virginia.
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