Hit-and-Run / Leaving After Colliding in Washington, D.C.
| Offense class | Misdemeanor |
|---|---|
| Property damage, 1st offense | 30 days and a $100 fine |
| Personal injury, 1st offense | 180 days and a $1,000 fine |
| Prosecutor | Office of the Attorney General |
| License consequence | 12 points and revocation of D.C. driving privileges for at least six months |
| Court | D.C. Superior Court |
What is hit-and-run (leaving after colliding) in D.C.?
In Washington, D.C., a hit-and-run charge, formally called leaving after colliding, arises when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop and meet the duties the law imposes at the scene. The duties differ depending on whether another person was injured or only property or a domestic animal was harmed.
When another person has been injured, the driver must immediately stop and make sure emergency assistance is provided as necessary. The driver must also remain on the scene until police arrive and provide identifying information to both law enforcement and the injured person.
When the collision results in property damage or injury to a domestic animal, the driver must immediately stop and provide identifying information to the owner of the property or animal. If the owner is not present, the driver must provide identifying information and the location of the collision to law enforcement or to the 911 operator.
What are the maximum penalties for hit-and-run in D.C.?
| Offense | 1st offense | 2nd offense |
|---|---|---|
| Hit-and-run, property damage | 30 days / $100 fine | 90 days / $500 fine |
| Hit-and-run, personal injury | 180 days / $1,000 fine | 1 year / $2,500 fine |
What should I do if the Metropolitan Police Department contacts me about a hit-and-run?
Can hit-and-run charges in D.C. be avoided before they are filed?
What happens if I am formally charged with hit-and-run in D.C.?
What are the legal defenses to a hit-and-run charge in D.C.?
The defenses available in a D.C. hit-and-run case depend on the specific facts. Possible defenses include:
- Lack of knowledge that a collision occurred
- Mistaken identification of the driver
- Exigent circumstances
- Fear for personal safety
Will I go to jail for a hit-and-run in D.C.?
Very few people go to jail after a hit-and-run conviction in D.C. Leaving after colliding is a misdemeanor, and the most likely outcome is a period of probation, possibly unsupervised, and a small fine.
First-time offenders should be offered a diversion program, in which the person performs an agreed set of conditions, such as community service, in exchange for the charges being dismissed without trial.