Charged with Hit and Run in Essex? We’ve Got Your Back.
A hit and run — legally called Leaving the Scene of an Accident — can turn your life upside down. Maybe you panicked, thought there was no damage, or didn’t realize contact occurred. Now you’re worried about jail time, MVA points, fines, and a damaging criminal record.
The Law Offices of David R. Waranch defends clients in Essex, Baltimore County, and across Maryland who are facing hit and run charges. We regularly handle serious Maryland traffic violations and know exactly how these cases move through local Baltimore County courts.
Because hit and run cases are aggressively prosecuted at the county level, working with an experienced Baltimore traffic lawyer can be critical to limiting penalties and protecting your driving privileges.
No matter what happened, our goal is to protect your license, your record, and your future.
Maryland Hit and Run Laws: What You’re Facing
Maryland requires any driver involved in a crash to stop, exchange information, and offer help if someone appears injured. Hit and run charges fall under Transportation §20-102 and §20-104.
Maryland law generally requires drivers to:
- Stop immediately near the scene
- Provide name, address, and insurance information
- Offer reasonable aid if someone appears injured
- Report the crash when required by law
Charges depend on what happened during the crash:
- Property damage only: Leaving the scene of an accident involving property
- Injury: Leaving the scene involving bodily injury
- Serious injury or death: Felony-level hit and run
Penalties may 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 for serious bodily injury
- Up to 10 years in prison for fatal accidents
- 8–12 MVA points with possible license suspension or revocation via the Maryland MVA
Even minor hit and run cases can impact insurance, background checks, security clearances, and employment opportunities for years.
Why Work With an Essex Hit and Run Lawyer?
Hit and run cases often involve misunderstandings or incomplete information. Police reports don’t always reflect what actually happened, and many drivers had no idea an impact occurred — especially in busy lots or tight roads common around Essex.
We regularly defend clients in situations involving:
- Allegations of leaving after a minor bump or parking lot scrape
- Accidents connected to DUI/DWI allegations or reckless driving
- Drivers who did not realize a collision occurred
- Drivers who returned later or attempted to report the incident
We understand how Baltimore County prosecutors approach these cases and what strategies work best for reducing or avoiding penalties.
Common Defenses in Essex Hit and Run Cases
Every hit and run case is different. We investigate the details to build the strongest defense possible.
- You were unaware of the collision. Common in slow-speed or parking-lot cases.
- You believed you followed the law. You stopped or attempted to exchange information.
- Weak identification. The State must prove you were the actual driver.
- Your rights were violated. Improper stops or questioning can result in suppressed evidence.
- Evidence conflicts. Damage patterns, video, and witness accounts may not match the allegation.
- You made restitution quickly. This often helps reduce penalties.
We also defend clients charged with related offenses such as driving without insurance and driving while suspended, creating a complete defense strategy tailored to your case.
For general background, you may review the Maryland Transportation Article or NHTSA hit and run resources, but strategic legal advice requires a personalized evaluation.
What To Do If Essex Police Contact You
Many Essex hit and run cases begin when a police officer calls asking you to “come in and explain what happened.” How you respond is critical.
- Do not give a statement without speaking to a lawyer first.
- Do not assume the case is minor because damage was small.
- Do gather insurance information, photos, and any notes you have.
- Do contact an experienced Maryland traffic attorney immediately.
We can often communicate with police on your behalf, protect your rights, and help you avoid serious mistakes that could worsen your situation.
Don’t Face a Hit and Run Charge Alone — Get Help Today
Hit and run charges move quickly and can carry serious, long-term consequences. Early legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your future.
Call 301-563-9575 or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule a confidential consultation with an Essex hit and run lawyer.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic Lawyers. We’ve Got Your Back.
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