San Diego, California Vehicular Crimes Attorney
Prosecuting hit and run vehicular manslaughter or reckless endangerment is not always as straightforward as prosecutors claim. Given the size of SUVs, vans, and trucks, automobile drivers aren't always aware they've even hit someone until police inform them after arriving at their door. Secondly, there may be extenuating circumstances that explain why someone did not stop after an accident. At the Law Offices of Elliott Kanter, we work with our own investigators in reconstructing what happened. We expose unsupported assumptions on the part of the prosecution that claim our client intentionally fled an accident or knowingly hit someone and left the scene.
Before talking to investigators, contact hit and run lawyer Elliott Kanter today to schedule a free consultation. We protect and assert your rights, accompanying you to any meetings or discussions with police or prosecutors.
Hit and Run Accidents Involving Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Bicyclists and pedestrians don't always observe traffic laws or exercise appropriate caution at intersections and along roadways. As a result, they sometimes abruptly enter into traffic or fail to move out of the way at intersections and in parking lots. Given the size and structure of bumpers on cars, a motorist may not even realize he or she struck a pedestrian or bicyclist. Unfortunately, eyewitnesses can't determine if a car driver intentionally fled an accident scene.
Our office reconstructs what happened, taking into account the angle of light, whether a driver was listening to music, if any potholes or speed bumps were in the vicinity, and other factors that could explain why a driver was unaware he or she struck a pedestrian. We also take into account the extent of damage to determine if the impact would have been sufficient to alert the driver.
Explaining the Circumstances surrounding Hit and Run
It's not uncommon for people to panic after they realize they've just been involved in an accident. Too often, prosecutors attempt to paint hit and run drivers as calloused or indifferent people who knowingly flee the scene of a crime. As a result, prosecutors may charge someone with a multiple crimes in the hopes of obtaining a harsher sentence.
As your attorney, Elliott Kanter tells your side of the story so jurors understand why you thought you had to flee. Understanding extenuating circumstances may not prevent conviction but it may convince the court to reduce the charges or sentence against you. Additionally, it may prevent you from having your license suspended or revoked and avoid your having a permanent criminal record.
Contact Hit and Run Defense Attorney Elliott Kanter Today
Hit and run is a serious offense that can result in jail time, fines, license revocation, and a permanent criminal record. If sentenced to jail, your employer may fire you and it's likely your insurance rate will increase substantially. To discuss the legal options available and how we can help you, contact criminal defense lawyer Elliott Kanter today to schedule a free consultation.
