Charged with Hit and Run in Silver Spring? We’re Here to Fight for You.
A hit and run — officially “Leaving the Scene of an Accident” — can feel overwhelming. Maybe you were startled, thought the contact was too minor to matter, or genuinely didn’t realize anything happened. Now you’re facing the possibility of criminal charges, MVA points, steep penalties, and long-term consequences.
The Law Offices of David R. Waranch helps drivers in Silver Spring, Montgomery County, and throughout Maryland navigate hit and run accusations. We routinely defend serious Maryland traffic violations and understand how these cases move through Montgomery County courts.
Our job is simple: protect you, your license, and your future.
Maryland Hit and Run Laws: What You’re Really Facing
Maryland requires drivers involved in a crash to stop, give information, and help anyone who may be injured. These rules come from Transportation §20-102 and §20-104.
Drivers are expected to:
- Stop immediately near the scene
- Provide name, address, and insurance details
- Offer reasonable aid if someone appears injured
- File a report when required under state law
Hit and run charges depend on what occurred:
- Property damage only — Leaving the scene involving property
- Injury — Leaving the scene involving bodily injury
- Serious injury or death — Felony-level hit and run
Possible penalties include:
- Up to 60 days in jail and up to $500 (property damage cases)
- Up to 1 year in jail and up to $1,000 (injury cases)
- Up to 5 years in prison for serious bodily injury
- Up to 10 years for accidents involving a fatality
- 8–12 points on your license and possible suspension or revocation by the Maryland MVA
Even minor hit and run cases can cause long-lasting problems with jobs, security clearances, and insurance rates.
Why You Need a Silver Spring Hit and Run Lawyer
Hit and run cases often involve misunderstandings or missing information. Many drivers never intended to leave the scene — especially in tight parking areas or slow-moving traffic common around Silver Spring.
We frequently defend:
- Drivers accused of leaving after a minor bump or parking lot scrape
- Hit and run cases linked to DUI/DWI allegations or reckless driving
- Drivers who genuinely did not realize a collision occurred
- Drivers who returned later or attempted to report the incident
We know how Montgomery County prosecutors evaluate these cases and what defense strategies work best.
Common Defenses in Hit and Run Cases
Every case has unique facts. We investigate the details to build a strategic and effective defense.
- You didn’t know a collision occurred (common in low-speed impact cases)
- You believed you complied with the law by stopping or sharing information
- Identification issues — the State must prove you were the driver
- Police obtained statements illegally or without proper procedure
- Conflicting evidence between witnesses, video, and vehicle damage
- Restitution or corrective action that may help reduce penalties
We also defend related charges such as driving without insurance and driving while suspended to protect you comprehensively.
You may review the Maryland Transportation Article or NHTSA hit and run guidance for general information — but legal strategy must be personalized.
What To Do If Silver Spring Police Contact You
Many hit and run cases begin when a police officer reaches out asking you to “discuss the incident.” How you respond can significantly affect your case.
- Do not give a statement without legal advice.
- Do not assume the situation is minor because damage was small.
- Do gather photos, insurance information, and notes.
- Do contact an experienced Maryland traffic lawyer immediately.
We can communicate with police on your behalf and prevent costly 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 have life-changing consequences. Early legal help gives you the strongest chance at a positive outcome.
Call 301-563-9575 or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule a confidential consultation with a Silver Spring hit and run lawyer.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic Lawyers. We’ve Got Your Back.
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