Charged with Hit and Run in Catonsville? We’ve Got Your Back.
A hit and run — officially known as Leaving the Scene of an Accident — can turn into a stressful and overwhelming situation. You may have panicked, didn’t notice the impact, or believed no damage occurred. Now you’re worried about jail time, fines, points, and a criminal record.
At the Law Offices of David R. Waranch, we help drivers in Catonsville, Baltimore County, and across Maryland defend against hit and run charges. We handle serious Maryland traffic violations daily, and we understand how these cases move through local courts.
Because hit and run cases are often prosecuted aggressively at the county level, working with an experienced Baltimore traffic lawyer can be critical to resolving the case and limiting long-term consequences.
You may have made a mistake — or the situation is being misunderstood. Our focus is on protecting your license, your record, and your future.
Maryland Hit and Run Laws: What You’re Really Facing
Maryland law requires all drivers involved in a crash to stop, share information, and offer reasonable assistance. The main laws come from Transportation §20-102 (injury or death) and §20-104 (duty to give information and render aid).
Maryland requires you to:
- Stop immediately near the scene
- Provide your name, address, and insurance information
- Render reasonable aid if someone appears injured
- Report the crash when required
Hit and run charges vary depending on the severity of the crash:
- Property damage only: Leaving the scene of an accident involving property
- Injury: Leaving the scene involving bodily injury
- Serious injury or fatality: Felony-level hit and run
Penalties can include:
- Up to 60 days in jail and up to $500 in fines (property damage)
- Up to 1 year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines (injury)
- Up to 5 years in prison (serious injury)
- Up to 10 years in prison (fatality)
- 8–12 MVA points and possible license suspension or revocation through the Maryland MVA
Even a “minor” hit and run can affect insurance, employment background checks, and professional licensing for years. That makes getting the right defense critical.
Why Work with a Catonsville Hit and Run Lawyer?
Hit and run cases are rarely as simple as they seem. Police reports often miss important details, and many drivers truly did not know that contact occurred — especially in tight parking lots or slow-speed situations common in Catonsville.
We defend:
- Drivers accused of leaving after a fender-bender or parking lot bump
- Cases tied to DUI/DWI allegations or reckless driving
- Situations where the driver didn’t realize damage occurred
- Cases where the driver returned later or tried to report the incident
We understand how Baltimore County prosecutors handle these matters, and we build a strategy that protects you at every stage — from negotiations to MVA hearings to courtroom defense.
Common Defenses in Catonsville Hit and Run Cases
We investigate every detail to challenge the State’s case and protect your rights.
- You were unaware of any collision. Common in low-speed impacts or crowded parking.
- You believed you complied with the law. Stopping briefly or attempting to exchange information.
- Identification is unreliable. The State must prove you were the driver, not just the owner.
- Your rights were violated. Illegal stops or improper questioning can suppress evidence.
- Evidence conflicts. Video, witness accounts, and damage patterns may not match the accusation.
- You made restitution early. This can significantly reduce consequences.
We also help with related charges such as driving without insurance and driving while suspended, offering a complete defense strategy.
For general reference, you may review the Maryland Transportation Article or NHTSA hit and run safety guidance, but personalized legal advice is essential for a strong defense.
What To Do If Catonsville Police Contact You
Many hit and run cases in Catonsville begin when an officer calls asking you to “come in and explain what happened.” What you say next can make or break your case.
- Do not give a statement without speaking to a lawyer.
- Do not assume the case is minor because damage was small.
- Do gather your insurance information, photos, and notes.
- Do contact a trusted Maryland traffic attorney right away.
We often communicate with police on your behalf, protect your rights, and prevent damaging missteps.
Don’t Face a Hit and Run Charge Alone — Get Help Today
Hit and run charges move quickly and carry serious consequences. Early legal help can dramatically improve your outcome.
Call 301-563-9575 or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule a confidential consultation with a Catonsville hit and run lawyer.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic Lawyers. We’ve Got Your Back.
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