Driving offers a sense of freedom; the ability to go anywhere at the turn of a key. Most people never imagine being in an accident. Nobody expects to hit a pedestrian, but if it happens, it can feel like the world is falling apart. But leaving the scene only makes things worse. Fear tempts people to run, hoping to not get in trouble. Fleeing the scene without helping the victim becomes a hit and run.
That raises one of the most common questions drivers ask: “What should I do in a hit and run?” And if they already left the scene, another fear quickly follows: “Can charges be dropped?”
The truth is, California takes hit and run cases seriously. The decisions you make in the moments after a collision matter. This guide will walk you through what to do to avoid making the situation worse, and how to prevent it from escalating into a more serious consequence.
Stop Immediately — Even If the Injury Seems Minor
It’s normal to panic if you hit someone, but what you do next matters most: stop immediately. Never drive off, no matter how minor the collision may seem because leaving the scene only makes the situation worse for both you and the other person involved.
Under California Vehicle Code 20003, if a crash causes injury or death, the driver must identify themselves to the victim or law enforcement. Vehicle Code 20002(c) further states that failing to stop or cooperate can lead to criminal penalties such as six months of imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000, or both. No matter how scared you feel, making the brave choice of staying at the scene shows responsibility and protects you from harsher consequences.
Call 911 Right Away
After a collision, your first step should be to call 911. Getting first responders to the scene, no matter how minor the injury seems, could be the difference between life and death. Even when the accident seems small, the victim may have internal injuries that only a medical professional can detect.
By making the call immediately, you show responsibility and good faith. It demonstrates concern for the victim and can influence how law enforcement views your actions. Failing to stop and call may be seen as an attempt to hide your involvement, which would be a violation of California Vehicle Code 20003.
Exchange Information (If possible)
In a typical car accident, both parties exchange names, license numbers, and vehicle registrations. In a hit and run, that may not always be possible. The other person may have sustained serious injures, or you might be the only person conscious.
If the victim is not able to take your information, wait for authorities to arrive and provide it directly to them. While you wait for their arrival, document everything you can:
- Time and location of the incident
- Description of what happened
- Any damage or visible injuries
- Names and contact information of any witnesses
When law enforcement arrives, cooperate fully and above all, be honest, because it shows responsibility and it can make a meaningful difference in how authorities judge your actions later.
Stay at the Scene Until Cleared by Police
Even if you had no intent to flee or hide anything, leaving before authorities clear you can:
- Make it appear as though you’re trying to avoid blame
- Give prosecutors or insurers leverage to suggest willful evasion
- Undermine the good faith you showed by stopping and reporting
Staying until authorities release you demonstrates patience, honesty, and cooperation, all of which strengthen how your actions are viewed later.
Contact your Insurance Company Promptly
Even if you’ve already spoken with a police officer and filed a report, you must notify your insurer right away. Most auto insurance policies require prompt reporting of any accident, even if you’re unsure who was at fault.
Your policy also requires you to cooperate with the investigation and provide truthful, accurate information. Failing to do so can allow insurers to deny your claim, drop your coverage, and limit your legal defense. The sooner you report the incident, the clearer the details will be, and the stronger your credibility.
Insurance adjusters may need to inspect your vehicle, review police records, or speak with any witnesses. If panic caused you to leave the scene earlier, you’re not alone. It’s not too late to take responsibility and do the right thing.
If You Panic and Leave, Turn Yourself In
You might feel overwhelmed, but don’t hide. Voluntarily turning yourself after a hit and run can make a real difference in how law enforcement, prosecutors, and even judges view your case.
What to Do When Turning Yourself In for a Hit and Run:
- Contact an Attorney: A criminal defense lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and communicate with law enforcement on your behalf.
- Prepare a Statement: With your attorney’s help, explain the fear or panic that led to your decision to leave.
- Report to Local Police or the CHP: Go to the police department where the crash happened, or to a California Highway Patrol office if it occurred on a freeway.
- Provide Your Information: Be ready to present your driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance details, and a description of what happened.
Why It Matters
Turning yourself in doesn’t erase the hit and run, but it can reduce the severity of the consequences. Under California Penal Code 1203.4, if you meet court-ordered conditions, such as paying fines or restitution, you may later petition to have the conviction dismissed from your record. While this won’t make the event disappear, it can help limit its long-term impact on your future.
Most importantly, turning yourself in shows accountability and honesty. It proves that even if fear caused you to make a mistake, taking responsibility can make a meaningful difference in how your case is resolved.
Can Hit and Run Charges in California be Dropped?
While there are no guarantees, voluntarily turning yourself in, especially with legal guidance, can influence how your case is handled. It may open the door to reduced charges, leniency in sentencing, or even a conditional dismissal depending on the circumstances.
Turning yourself in benefits both you and the victim. It shows remorse, accountability, willingness to cooperate with the investigation. These actions demonstrate good faith, which may be considered in plea negotiations or sentencing.
Prosecutors may still pursue charges, but turning yourself in can be the difference between jail time and probation, or a felony vs. misdemeanor. No matter where you are in this stressful process, taking responsibility now makes a meaningful difference.
Moving Forward After a Hit and Run
Getting into an accident is devastating. In a single moment, lives can change, or even end. Victims may face serious injuries while drivers deal with fear, panic, and uncertainty about what to do next. It’s a stressful moment, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or to react on impulse.
Staying calm is never easy, but it’s necessary. Slowing down and steadying yourself gives you the clarity to take the right steps. Even if you left the scene in a panic, it’s not too late to make things right. Turning yourself in and cooperating can make a meaningful difference in how authorities handle your case. The road ahead may feel uncertain, but each responsible step you take prevents the situation from getting worse, and helps you move forward.
