Hit And Run Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
A Maryland hit and run is a serious traffic offense under Md. Code, Transp. § 20-102, requiring drivers to stop and provide information after a crash. Penalties escalate based on injury or property damage. If you are charged, a hit and run lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build a defense.
Maryland Hit and Run Law
Maryland law requires any driver involved in a crash resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop their vehicle at the scene, or as close as possible without obstructing traffic. The driver must return to and remain at the scene to provide their name, address, vehicle registration number, and driver’s license to any injured person, the owner of damaged property, or a police officer. If the owner of the damaged property is not present, the driver must take reasonable steps to locate and notify them, or leave a written notice in a conspicuous place with the required information. Failing to fulfill these duties constitutes the crime of leaving the scene of an accident, commonly called hit and run.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Md. Code, Transp. § 20-102 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Maryland Courts website.
Local Court Procedures for Hit and Run Cases
Hit and run cases in Maryland are typically heard in the District Court for the county where the incident occurred. These are criminal traffic proceedings. The process usually begins with a citation or a criminal summons. An early consultation with a leaving scene lawyer is critical, as there may be opportunities to address the case before a formal court date is set. Prosecutors often seek penalties that include license suspension.
- Receive the Citation or Summons: You will get a ticket or court paperwork with a date and location.
- Consult an Attorney Immediately: Contact a lawyer to review the charges and evidence against you.
- Investigation and Defense Preparation: Your attorney will gather evidence, such as police reports and witness statements, to build your defense.
- Court Appearances: You or your attorney will attend scheduled hearings, which may include arraignment, pre-trial conferences, and trial.
- Resolution: Your case may be resolved through a dismissal, plea agreement, or trial verdict.
Potential Penalties for Hit and Run in Maryland
In Maryland, hit and run penalties vary from fines and points for property damage to felony charges and prison time for accidents involving injury or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run (Property Damage) | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | 8 points, possible suspension | Civil liability for damages |
| Hit and Run (Bodily Injury) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 12 points, mandatory suspension | Civil liability for injuries |
| Hit and Run (Death) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, civil wrongful death suit |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Maryland Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to traffic and criminal defense matters. Our approach is grounded in a detailed review of the facts and evidence in each case. We understand that a hit and run charge can have severe consequences for your driving record and future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of handling traffic cases across Maryland. While specific outcomes depend on the unique facts of each case, our focus is always on protecting our clients’ rights and driving privileges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from deep institutional experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Maryland Hit and Run Defense Team
If you need a hit and run attorney in Maryland, our team is accessible. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for urgent matters. Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Montgomery County and the surrounding region.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hit and run a felony in Maryland?
It depends. A hit and run involving only property damage is a misdemeanor. However, if the accident results in a death, it is a felony under Maryland law, carrying up to five years in prison.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene?
Contact a hit and run defense lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the incident with police or insurance adjusters without legal counsel. An attorney can review the evidence, advise you of your rights, and begin building a defense strategy case-specific to the specifics of your case.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run?
Yes. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will assess points against your license. A hit and run with property damage results in 8 points, while one involving injury carries 12 points. Accumulating 8-11 points can lead to suspension, and 12+ points typically triggers a revocation.
What defenses are available for a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, necessity (e.g., leaving to get emergency help), mistaken identity, or that you fulfilled your legal duties to the best of your ability. An accident flight defense attorney can evaluate which arguments apply to your situation.
Will my insurance cover the damages if I left the scene?
It is unlikely. Most insurance policies have clauses that exclude coverage if the insured driver violates the law, such as by committing a hit and run. You would likely be personally responsible for all property damage and injury costs.
A hit and run case is one part of a wider personal injury practice, and our page on traffic lawyer Maryland covers how these claims are handled.