Charged with Hit and Run in Upper Marlboro? We’re Here to Help.
A hit and run — legally called Leaving the Scene of an Accident — is one of the most stressful traffic charges you can face in Maryland. Maybe you panicked, thought the damage was minor, or didn’t even realize a collision happened. Whatever the situation, you are now worried about criminal consequences, license points, insurance issues, and your future.
The Law Offices of David R. Waranch defends drivers in Upper Marlboro, Prince George’s County, and throughout Maryland who are dealing with hit and run allegations. We regularly handle serious Maryland traffic violations and understand how these cases proceed in the Upper Marlboro District Court.
Our priority is simple: protect your license, your record, and your long-term opportunities.
Maryland Hit and Run Laws: What You Need to Know
Drivers in Maryland must stop at the scene, share information, and assist anyone who may be injured. These duties come from Transportation §20-102 and §20-104.
Maryland law generally requires that drivers:
- Stop immediately near the scene
- Provide name, address, and insurance information
- Offer reasonable assistance if someone appears injured
- File a report when required by Maryland law
Charges depend on the type of accident:
- Property damage only — Leaving the scene 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 (property damage cases)
- Up to 1 year in jail and up to $1,000 (injury cases)
- Up to 5 years for crashes involving serious bodily injury
- Up to 10 years if the incident involved a fatality
- 8–12 MVA points and possible license suspension or revocation via the Maryland MVA
A hit and run conviction can impact insurance premiums, background checks, job applications, and security clearances for years to come.
Why You Need an Upper Marlboro Hit and Run Lawyer
Hit and run cases often involve misunderstandings, panic, or unclear evidence. Many drivers never intended to violate the law. A local Upper Marlboro attorney with experience in serious traffic cases can make a significant difference in how your case is resolved.
We frequently defend clients accused of:
- Leaving after minor contact in parking lots or tight spaces
- Accidents involving DUI/DWI allegations or reckless driving
- Situations where the driver didn’t realize a collision occurred
- Drivers who returned later or who attempted to report the incident
We understand how Prince George’s County prosecutors evaluate hit and run cases and what strategies are most effective for reducing or avoiding penalties.
Common Defenses in Hit and Run Cases
We tailor our defense to the facts of your case. Common strategies include:
- You did not know an accident occurred
- You believed you complied with legal requirements
- Insufficient identification — the State must prove you were the driver
- Unlawful police stop or improper questioning
- Conflicting eyewitness or video evidence
- Restitution and corrective actions that may influence the judge or prosecutor
We also handle related charges such as driving without insurance and driving while suspended, offering a complete defense strategy.
You may review the Maryland Transportation Article or NHTSA resources for general information — but legal defense must be tailored to your specific facts.
What To Do If Upper Marlboro Police Contact You
Many hit and run cases start with a call from a police officer asking you to “come in and give your side.” This can be risky without legal guidance.
- Do not give a statement before speaking to a lawyer.
- Do not assume the case is minor because the damage was small.
- Do gather any insurance documents, photos, or notes you have.
- Do contact an experienced Maryland traffic attorney immediately.
We can often speak with the police or prosecutor on your behalf and help prevent mistakes that could make the case worse.
Don’t Face a Hit and Run Charge Alone — Get Experienced Help
Hit and run charges can move quickly and carry long-lasting consequences. The sooner you get legal help, the more options you may have.
Call 301-563-9575or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule a confidential consultation with an Upper Marlboro hit and run lawyer.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic Lawyers. We’ve Got Your Back.
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