NC Traffic Law Blog

So you’ve been charged with a Hit and Run in North Carolina: What do you do? Being charged with a hit and run is serious. What you do after being charged can have a big impact on the outcome of your case.

A hit and run charge generally involves leaving the scene of a crash without stopping to provide identifying information or render reasonable assistance. Depending on whether the incident involved property damage, injury, or death, the offense may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

One of the first steps to consider is retaining an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can speak on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected from the start. Before you hire an attorney, it is wise to avoid making statements to law enforcement or insurance companies. Even well-intentioned explanations can be misunderstood or used to support the charge.

Legal representation is particularly important in hit and run cases because they often depend on detailed factual and legal issues. A skilled attorney can review the evidence (such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and vehicle damage) to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies in the case.

An attorney can also engage with prosecutors early in the process. In some circumstances, effective advocacy may result in reduced charges, alternative resolutions, or mitigation of potential penalties.

The consequences of a hit and run conviction in North Carolina can be significant. Penalties may include fines, jail time, loss of driving privileges, points on your driving record, higher insurance premiums, and, in felony cases, long-term effects on employment and civil rights.

An attorney helps ensure strict compliance with court deadlines and conditions, preventing additional legal problems. If you are facing a hit and run charge, securing knowledgeable legal representation is a critical step toward protecting your record and your future. If you are dealing with a hit and run case currently, call or visit iTicket.law to speak with someone about your case today.