Hit and Run Lawyer Virginia — Defending Leaving the Scene Charges
A hit and run in Virginia is a serious offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, requiring you to stop and provide information. A hit and run lawyer Virginia from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends against these charges, which can be misdemeanors or felonies. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
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. You must provide your name, address, driver’s license number, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, occupant, or property owner. If the other party is incapacitated or the property is unattended, you must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. Violating these duties constitutes the crime of “hit and run” or “leaving the scene of an accident.” The severity of the charge depends on the accident’s outcome.
- Contact a hit and run lawyer Virginia immediately after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain the police report and all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- We will investigate the scene, identify witnesses, and challenge the proof that you were the driver or knew an accident occurred.
- We negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for trial to defend your rights.
External Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Penalties for a Virginia Hit and Run
In Virginia, a hit and run carries penalties ranging from a Class 4 misdemeanor to a Class 5 felony, with potential jail time, fines, and license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run – Property Damage Only | Class 4 Misdemeanor (if damage < $250) / Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months (Class 1) | Up to $2,500 | Possible DMV points; court may suspend | Civil liability for damages |
| Hit & Run – Injury | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent felony record |
| Hit & Run – Death | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Hit and Run Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We combine over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are investigated and prosecuted. We understand the immediate steps needed to protect your driving privileges and build a strong defense against a hit and run accident charge.
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
Case Results
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against serious traffic and criminal charges. In one case, a client facing a drive suspended charge in Albemarle County General District Court had the charge amended to a non-moving violation. In federal matters, we have secured favorable resolutions including early termination of probation. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Virginia Hit and Run Lawyers
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve Northern Virginia. We represent clients in communities across the region. For a hit and run lawyer near Virginia, contact us 24/7 for phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Virginia Hit and Run Lawyer FAQ
Is a hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It depends. A hit and run involving only property damage is typically a misdemeanor. If the accident results in injury or death, it is a Class 5 felony under Virginia law, carrying 1-10 years in prison and mandatory driver’s license revocation.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene?
Contact a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Virginia immediately. Do not discuss the case with police or insurance adjusters without an attorney. Your lawyer will secure evidence, interview witnesses, and develop a defense strategy, which may involve challenging whether you knew an accident occurred.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in Virginia?
Yes. The court has discretion to suspend your license for a misdemeanor hit and run. For a felony hit and run involving injury or death, the Virginia DMV will mandatorily revoke your driver’s license upon conviction.
What if I didn’t know I hit something?
A common defense is lack of knowledge. The prosecution must prove you were aware that an accident occurred. An experienced hit and run accident charge lawyer Virginia can investigate to support this claim, using evidence like vehicle damage, road conditions, and witness statements.
How long do I have to report an accident in Virginia?
If you cannot provide your information at the scene (e.g., the property is unattended), you must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. Failure to do so can lead to a hit and run charge.