Virginia Hit And Run Accident Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Virginia is a serious traffic offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, requiring drivers to stop and provide information. If you are accused of leaving the scene, you need a Virginia hit and run accident lawyer. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges, which can be misdemeanors or felonies based on injury or property damage.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Hit and Run Law
Virginia law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop at the scene or as close as possible without obstructing traffic. The driver must provide their name, address, driver’s license number, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, any injured person, or law enforcement. If the other party is incapacitated and no police are present, the driver must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. Failure to fulfill these duties constitutes the crime of hit and run, also known as leaving the scene. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident. A Virginia hit and run accident lawyer is essential to handle these complex statutes and build a defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures and forms, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
- Secure immediate legal counsel from a hit and run defense lawyer before speaking to police.
- Your attorney will obtain and review the police report, witness statements, and any traffic or surveillance camera footage.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve challenging the identification of your vehicle, proving you were unaware of the accident, or negotiating for a reduced charge.
- Your lawyer will represent you at all court hearings, from arraignment through potential trial or resolution.
In Virginia, a hit and run can be a Class 5 felony if the accident involved injury or death, carrying 1-10 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. If only property damage exceeds $1,000, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. For damage under $1,000, it is a Class 4 misdemeanor with a fine up to $250.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Injury/Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent criminal record |
| Hit & Run (Property Damage >$1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | DMV points; possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Hit & Run (Property Damage <$1,000) | Class 4 Misdemeanor | None | Up to $250 | DMV points | Traffic conviction record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Hit and Run Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the immediate need for a strategic defense in accident flight cases to protect your driving privileges and future.
Case Results
Our firm-wide results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC include 4,739+ documented cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. This extensive experience includes defending clients against hit and run and leaving the scene charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Fairfax location serves all Virginia communities. We are a hit and run attorney near you, ready to provide a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Virginia?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a Virginia hit and run accident lawyer immediately. Your lawyer will protect your rights, investigate the evidence, and begin building your defense against the leaving the scene charge.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know I hit something?
It depends. The prosecution must prove you knew, or reasonably should have known, that an accident occurred. A skilled hit and run defense attorney can argue a lack of knowledge, which can be a valid defense if supported by the facts of your case.
What are the penalties for a hit and run in Virginia?
Penalties range from a fine for a minor property damage misdemeanor to felony prison time if the accident caused injury or death. The specific penalties depend on the classification of the offense, which is based on the resulting damage or injury.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
Yes, for a felony hit and run involving injury or death, your license will be revoked. For misdemeanor property damage charges, the court has discretion to suspend your license, and you will receive DMV demerit points.
Should I hire a hit and run attorney or a general criminal lawyer?
You should hire a lawyer who specifically handles traffic crimes and hit and run defense. These cases involve specific traffic laws, DMV procedures, and evidentiary issues that a attorney will understand better than a general practitioner.
Related Pages: For other traffic matters, see our Virginia traffic lawyer page. For more on personal injury claims, visit our Virginia personal injury lawyer hub. For help in a specific area, consider a Fairfax personal injury lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.