If you are disputing a hit-and-run charge, you need to understand your rights. Many drivers in Mojave, CA, and throughout Kern County face these allegations after minor mishaps and accidents.
Sometimes, the driver didn’t even realize any damage was done or that there was a need to stop,
We want Mojave drivers to know what’s at stake and how we can help.
When you are accused of a hit-and-run, remember you have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney with you during questioning. You do NOT need to explain to the officer what happened.
In fact, most drivers who try to explain away a ticket end up incriminating themselves.
What Is a Misdemeanor
A misdemeanor is more serious than a traffic infraction, which usually comes with a fine and points, but a lower-level crime compared to a felony.
A felony typically carries a sentence of more than 12 months and requires imprisonment. A misdemeanor usually carries a sentence of six to twelve months in jail or probation.
“A misdemeanor is typically a crime punishable by less than 12 months in jail. Community service, probation, fines, and imprisonment for less than a year are commonly issued punishments for misdemeanors. More grievous crimes, felonies, carry stiffer penalties, including jail time of more than 12 months.”—Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute (LII).
The penalties for a misdemeanor include: A massive fine of up to $3,000, vehicle impoundment, which could add $1,500 or more, probation, and two negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points.
An infraction, by contrast, could mean a fine of around $238, one NOTS point, and higher auto insurance premiums.
Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run Explained
Imagine backing into a mailbox or hitting someone’s fence and leaving without leaving details. Unbelievably, this could be ruled a misdemeanor offense.
That scenario could trigger misdemeanor charges under California Vehicle Code (VC) 20002, Driving Offenses (Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run with property damages only).
The law requires drivers to stop safely after property damage.
Failing to stop, exchange details, or report could result in jail and fines is a violation of CA VC Sections 20003 and 20004 (Reporting requirements), as follows:
“(a) The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to any property, including vehicles, shall immediately stop the vehicle at the nearest location that will not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.”
The Consequences in Kern County
A conviction carries serious penalties in Kern County and across California.
Drivers face a massive fine, six months in jail, two or three years of probation, or both the fine and jail time/probation.
They may also owe restitution for damages and receive NOTS points. Restitution is not typically determined during the trial phase, but as part of a civil suit. However, if the driver is found guilty of a hit-and-run
The base fine can reach $1,000, not counting other financial impacts, such as state and county assessments, surcharges, and penalties that could multiply the base fine by four or five times.
Legal Compliance Matters
Avoiding a conviction means knowing your obligations.
You must stop, share information, and report the accident.
If you strike a mailbox or other property along the highway and there is no one around to inform, you should leave a note with your name, address, and insurance information, then report the incident to the local police as soon as possible, but never more than 24 hours later.
Reporting to law enforcement or the DMV creates a record. Notifying your insurer quickly also helps protect your credibility.
Felony vs. Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run Charges
The difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is critical—misdemeanors involve property damage only.
Felonies involve injuries or fatalities to anyone other than the driver, even when you were unaware of the injury.
That distinction can change your future and your freedom.
How We Can Help
We guide drivers through the legal system in Kern County, CA. Our firm has assisted many drivers accused of hit-and-run violations.
We review every detail and build a defense tailored to your case.
Our goal is first to obtain a dismissal of charges, then to reduce the charge to an infraction, which will lessen penalties and fines.
Likewise, if there is a civil action pending or the possibility of one in the future, we can assist the driver in limiting damage by requesting a dismissal or pleading no contest.
Why You Should Never Self-Represent a Misdemeanor or Felony
Self-representation is risky, especially when jail time and a criminal record are at stake.
A conviction could affect your record, license, and job.
We understand how local courts handle these cases in Kern County—that knowledge gives our clients a stronger chance at better outcomes.
Contact Bigger & Harman About Disputing This Misdemeanor Charge
We can assist with disputing a hit-and-run charge. If you’re facing allegations in Mojave or elsewhere in Kern County, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
We offer a free consultation to explain your options—use our convenient contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: What counts as a misdemeanor hit-and-run in Kern County?
A: A misdemeanor hit-and-run involves leaving the scene of an accident with property damage only and no injuries without providing your information.
Q: Can I go to jail for a misdemeanor hit-and-run?
A: Yes. One of the possible penalties includes up to six months in the Kern County Jail or probation.
Q: Do I need to hire an attorney to dispute a hit-and-run charge?
A: Yes. Although self-representation or a public defender is a possibility, a traffic attorney with trial experience understands Kern County court procedures and will fight to reduce the charge to a traffic infraction or gain a dismissal when possible. The old adage or possible Abraham Lincoln quote: “A man who represents himself has a fool for a client,” is true whether or not Lincoln said it.
References:
Cornell Law School LII WEX Definitions: Misdemeanor.
CA VC Section 20001 (Felony Hit-and-Run with injury or death), CA VC Section 20002 (Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run with damages only), CA VC Sections 20003 and 20004 (Reporting requirements).
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.