A 17-year-old pedestrian was killed, and his brother seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident in North Hollywood that may have been the result of a street race.  LAPD Valley Traffic Division stated that it appeared the brothers were not in a crosswalk when they were struck.

Witnesses told the officers at the scene the suspect vehicle, which appeared to be racing another vehicle, fled the scene and got onto the freeway.

Being charged with a hit-and-run is a serious offense in Los Angeles County and something that local law enforcement agencies are taking more seriously as the number of incidents keep going up.  A conviction for a hit-and-run can result in up to 6 months in the County Jail and a $1,000 fine.  Additionally, there may be probation to the court for up to 3 years, victim restitution, court fines and 2 points on your driving record.

If you have been charged with hit-and-run in Southern California, it is important to talk to your attorney about the possibility of a civil compromise.  If the facts are appropriate, and your attorney can get the victim on board, a successful civil compromise will permanently suspend criminal proceedings against you and you can avoid a conviction, jail, probation andpoints on your license.

Being charged with street racing or speed contest is another, more serious, charge and can lead to greater penalties if convicted under that code.  Penalties for being convicted of “street racing” include a minimum of 24 hours in County Jail (and up to 90 days max), up to a $1,000 fine and 40 hours of mandatory community service.  In addition, the judge can order your drivers license suspended for anywhere between 90 days to 6 months.  If the race caused injury to another person other than you, the mandatory jail time goes up to 30 days and a minimum $500 fine.

If you have been arrested for, or charged with, hit-and-run or street racing in Los Angeles, contact attorney Ross Erlich immediately for a free consultation.  Ross Erlich has handled these matters in all courthouses in Southern California and has gotten these charges dismissed and reduced.  It is important to know your rights and not walk into court and simply plead guilty.  As this blog demonstrates – doing so may seriously impact your freedom and ability to operate a vehicle.