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Legal Consequences for a Driver Who Flees the Scene in Los Angeles

Personal Injury · By California Personal Injury Attorneys · May 21, 2026

Fleeing the scene of a collision in Los Angeles triggers serious criminal charges and civil liability. Victims may still recover damages through UM/UIM coverage and investigative efforts.

In California, fleeing the scene of an accident is a criminal offense under Vehicle Code § 20001 (injury) or § 20002 (property damage only). Penalties range from misdemeanor fines to felony prison time if injuries occurred. Victims retain the right to pursue civil damages even when the driver initially fled. When a driver causes a collision and then leaves without stopping to exchange information or render aid, the consequences extend far beyond the immediate harm to victims. A hit run accident Los Angeles CA driver faces serious criminal prosecution, administrative license penalties, and…