Recently police arrested 31-year-old Jared Walter Anderson for fleeing the scene after hitting a pedestrian. According to CBS Los Angeles, Anderson was driving a Ford F150 when the incident occurred. The victim was riding a Lime electric scooter across the street at a crosswalk, and Anderson failed to stop, hitting the man.

After the accident, Anderson fled from the scene. A nearby police officer who witnessed the accident started pursuit and a chase ensued through Hollywood streets. Police were finally able to stop Anderson, who was arrested and now faces several criminal charges. The victim was transferred to the hospital, but later died from his injuries.

California Hit and Run Law

In California, a hit and run occurs if you leave the scene of an accident without first identifying yourself to the others involved. If the accident only resulted in property damage and no one was hurt, it will likely be charged as a misdemeanor hit and run. However, if another person was injured or killed, the charge will increase to a felony hit and run. When someone dies in a hit and run accident, prosecutors may investigate the situation to see if manslaughter or murder charges are applicable due to the driver being intoxicated or reckless. This is very serious, so it is important to make sure you are represented by a criminal defense attorney that understands the specific elements of the law. 

Still, even a conviction of felony hit and run on its own can result in serious consequences. Penalties for a felony hit and run include a fine ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 as well as incarceration for 16 months to 3 years. The prison sentence can increase to 4 years if an individual was killed or suffered a permanent injury.

Ventura Hit and Run Lawyer

If you or someone you love is charged with a felony hit and run, it is important to contact an experienced Ventura hit and run defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact the Kann California Defense Group today for a free consultation by calling 888-744-7730.