Hit and Run Lawyer Virginia — Defending Leaving the Scene Charges
A hit and run in Virginia is a serious criminal offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, carrying penalties from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for hit and run accident charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Courts | 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 party, any injured person, or a law enforcement officer. If the other party is incapacitated and no officer is present, the driver must report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency. The statute, Va. Code § 46.2-894, is strictly enforced. Failure to comply constitutes the crime of leaving the scene of an accident, commonly called hit and run.
Penalties for Leaving the Scene in Virginia
In Virginia, penalties for a hit and run accident charge escalate based on the severity of the crash, ranging from a traffic infraction to a Class 5 felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Damage Only | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Civil liability, permanent criminal record |
| Injury | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension | Felony record, possible civil lawsuit |
| Death | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension | Felony record, wrongful death suit |
*Or, in the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Hit and Run Charges
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to defending hit and run cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, Bryan Block, whose 15 years of law enforcement experience provides unique insight into accident investigations and police procedures. This background is critical for challenging the evidence in a leaving the scene of an accident case.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate of over 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our collaborative approach ensures every client benefits from our collective experience.
Local Defense for Virginia Drivers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients across Northern Virginia, including Fairfax County, Arlington, Loudoun, and Prince William County. We are accessible via major highways like I-66, I-495, and Route 50. As a hit and run lawyer near Virginia courts, we provide 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Hit and Run Defense FAQs
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 hit and run lawyer Virginia immediately. Your statements can be used against you. An attorney can advise you on your rights and begin building a defense, such as challenging whether you knew an accident occurred.
Can a hit and run charge be reduced in Virginia?
It depends. An experienced leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Virginia can often negotiate with prosecutors. Outcomes may include reducing a felony to a misdemeanor or securing an amended charge like improper driving, especially if there were no injuries and you have a clean record.
Results may vary.
What if I didn’t know I hit something?
Yes, lack of knowledge is a potential defense. The prosecution must prove you were aware of the accident. A lawyer can investigate road conditions, vehicle damage, and witness statements to support a claim that you were unaware a collision occurred.
Will I lose my license for a hit and run in Virginia?
Yes, a conviction for leaving the scene carries a mandatory driver’s license suspension: 6 months for property damage and 1 year for injury or death. A skilled hit and run accident charge lawyer Virginia may fight to avoid conviction or seek a restricted license for work purposes.
Is a hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It can be. A hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the accident resulted in injury or death, it is charged as a Class 5 felony, carrying more severe penalties including potential prison time.
For immediate help from a hit and run lawyer Virginia, call us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747. Consultations are by appointment only.