Charged with Hit and Run in Charles County? We’re Here to Help.
A hit and run charge—legally known in Maryland as Leaving the Scene of an Accident—can be incredibly stressful. Many drivers panic, believe the impact was too minor to report, or genuinely do not realize that a collision occurred. Unfortunately, Maryland enforces strict rules under these laws, and even misunderstandings can lead to criminal charges, license points, fines, and long-term consequences.
The Law Offices of David R. Waranch represents drivers across Charles County under Maryland Transportation Articles §20-102 and §20-104. We understand how these cases are handled in the La Plata District Court and how local prosecutors approach hit and run investigations.
Our priority is straightforward: protect your freedom, your driving record, and your future.
Maryland Hit and Run Laws: What the State Requires
After any accident—no matter how minor—Maryland law requires drivers to stop and complete specific steps. Even a low-speed bump or parking lot scrape can result in hit and run charges if these procedures are not followed correctly.
Drivers must:
- Stop immediately at or near the scene
- Provide name, address, and insurance information
- Offer reasonable assistance if anyone appears injured
- File an accident report when required by law
The consequences depend on the severity of the crash:
- Property damage only — Up to 60 days in jail + $500 fine
- Personal injury — Up to 1 year in jail + $1,000 fine
- Serious bodily injury — Felony charges carrying up to 5 years in prison
- Fatal accident — Up to 10 years in prison
- 8–12 MVA points and possible license suspension or revocation
Even a misdemeanor conviction can impact insurance rates, employment, background checks, and immigration status.
Why You Need a Hit and Run Lawyer in Charles County
Hit and run cases often involve misunderstandings or incomplete information. Police may rely on assumptions, and witnesses sometimes misinterpret what they saw. A knowledgeable Charles County hit and run lawyer can expose weaknesses in the evidence and help guide you through the process.
We commonly defend:
- Drivers accused after minor contact or parking lot scrapes
- Cases connected to DUI/DWI investigations or reckless driving
- Drivers who did not realize an impact occurred
- Situations where a driver searched for the other party but could not find them
- Drivers who attempted to report the incident or returned later
We understand how prosecutors in La Plata evaluate these cases and how to negotiate favorable outcomes whenever possible.
Common Defenses in Charles County Hit and Run Cases
Depending on the situation, we may challenge the allegation using defenses such as:
- You were unaware of the collision due to minimal impact
- You attempted to comply but the other driver left
- You were not the driver, even if the vehicle is registered to you
- Police performed an improper stop or interview
- Evidence does not match the accusation (video, photos, damage pattern)
- Early restitution helped reduce harm, which often improves negotiations
We also defend related traffic offenses, including:
What to Do If Charles County Police Contact You
Many hit and run cases begin when an officer calls and asks you to “come in and provide your side of the story.” This is extremely risky without legal representation.
- Do not give a statement before speaking to a lawyer
- Do not assume the case is minor
- Do preserve photos, notes, and insurance documentation
- Do contact a Maryland traffic lawyer immediately
We routinely communicate with Charles County law enforcement and can protect you from making statements that may harm your case.
Where We Handle Hit and Run Cases in Charles County
We represent clients in all Charles County areas, including:
- Waldorf
- La Plata
- White Plains
- Bryans Road
- Hughesville
- Pomfret
- Indian Head
- Newburg
- Nanjemoy
- Cobb Island
Speak with a Charles County Hit and Run Lawyer Today
Hit and run cases move fast, and early legal guidance can make a huge difference. We can protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and help you pursue the best possible resolution.
Call 301-563-9575 or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule a confidential, no-pressure consultation.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Trusted Maryland Traffic Defense.
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