Call Us: 202-389-9000
Monument Legal logo
  • 202-389-9000
  • Schedule a Consultation →
Skip to content
  • Home
  • Practice Areas
    • Federal
    • Washington DC
    • Virginia
  • About the Firm
    • About the Firm
    • Christopher J. Mutimer
    • Jay P. Mykytiuk
    • Gabriela Reyes
    • Locations
  • News & Insights
  • Contact
  • Schedule a Consultation →

News & Insights

DC Hit and Run Laws Explained: What to Do, Penalties, & Legal Help

May 23, 2025


What is a Hit and Run in Washington DC?

Getting into an accident is stressful enough, but things can get even more complicated if you’re facing a hit and run charge in Washington DC. If you’re stuck wondering what a hit and run really is and what comes next, you’re in the right place. At Monument Legal, we’re here to help you understand the ins and outs of hit and run incidents and how to tackle them effectively.

What’s a Hit and Run Anyway?

In simple terms, a hit and run – officially called “leaving after colliding” – happens when someone drives off after being involved in an accident without providing their information. According to DC Code § 50-2201.05, if you’re in a collision and don’t stop, you’re breaking the law.

What Do You Need to Do After a Collision?

If you’ve been in an accident, here’s the deal: you have to stop. If someone is injured, it’s your responsibility to call for help by dialing 911, stay on the scene until the cops arrive, and share your info with those involved.

If you end up damaging someone’s property – like hitting a parked car or even a fence – you should give your details to the property owner. If the owner isn’t around, you still need to inform the police about what happened.

And let’s say your collision leads to any risk for others, like a car blocking the road, you should be sure to call 911 and alert them to what is going on.

What Happens If You Don’t?

Under DC law, if you don’t stop, you could be facing some serious consequences based on the nature of the accident. If it’s just property damage, the penalties can include fines or up to 30 days in jail for a first offense. But if someone gets hurt, watch out – it could lead to heavier fines and jail time of up to 180 days for a first offense. The stakes definitely get higher, so it’s best to know the rules before anything goes down.

The Real Difference: Property Damage vs. Personal Injury

It’s crucial to know that hit and runs can be classified into two categories:

  • Hit and Run – Property Damage: This is when your actions only damage someone else’s property. While still a serious issue, the legal penalties are generally less severe compared to personal injury cases.
  • Hit and Run – Personal Injury: This is where it gets serious. If anyone is injured due to your actions, the law comes down much harder on you, with more severe penalties involved

What Happens If You’re Arrested for a Hit and Run?

If you’re arrested for a hit and run, the process can feel overwhelming. Typically, law enforcement will take you into custody, and you may be held until you see a judge, usually within 48 hours. During your initial hearing, the judge will determine whether you should be released or held longer based on the circumstances of your case.

First things first: Be calm and collected. This is critical. You need to reach out to a legal expert as soon as possible. An experienced DC hit and run attorney can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and navigate the next steps effectively.

How a DC Hit and Run Attorney Can Help

If you find yourself facing hit and run charges, having a skilled attorney on your side is essential. At Monument Legal, we specialize in handling these cases, and here’s how we can help you tackle the situation:

  1. Getting Your Case No Papered: One option your attorney might pursue is to get your case “no papered.” This means the prosecutors decide not to file charges against you. With the right evidence and arguments, our experienced team can help convince the prosecutor that pursuing charges isn’t warranted.
  2. Negotiating a Diversion Agreement: If outright dismissal isn’t possible, your attorney can work to secure a diversion agreement, such as a Deferred Sentencing Agreement (DSA) or a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA). This allows you to meet certain conditions—like attending a defensive driving course—so that charges can ultimately be dismissed, keeping your record clean.
  3. Representation at Trial: If your case goes to trial, having a DC hit and run attorney by your side is a game-changer. We’ll build a solid defense tailored to your situation. Whether it’s challenging the evidence against you, highlighting discrepancies in witness statements, or establishing that you didn’t act with reckless disregard, we’re committed to fighting for the best possible outcome.

The MPD Hit and Run Unit

Here’s another twist: the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has a unit dedicated just to hit and runs. If they suspect you may have been involved, they could send an investigation letter your way. But here’s the catch: don’t jump at the chance to contact the police if this happens to you. They might be trying to get you to spill the beans or gather evidence against you. Instead, it’s always smarter to talk to a qualified attorney who can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf. This way, you protect yourself and ensure that any information given is handled properly.

Why Timing Matters

When dealing with hit and run charges, timing is critical. After an incident, reach out for legal help as soon as possible. Delaying can hurt your case because each moment affects how evidence is gathered, and it allows law enforcement more time to solidify their investigation against you. Facing a hit and run charge in Washington DC is a serious matter that can have lasting consequences. But you don’t have to go through this alone. Knowing your rights and having the right legal representation can make all the difference.

At Monument Legal, we are committed to providing the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Whether it’s negotiating with prosecutors, navigating the complexities of the law, or representing you in court, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

If you or someone you know is dealing with a hit and run charge in DC, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s talk about your situation and work together towards the best possible outcome. Your future is important, and we’re dedicated to helping you protect it.

Monument Legal logo
202-389-9000
1100 H Street, NW, Suite 1010
Washington, DC 20005
  • Schedule a Consultation
  • Subscribe to our Newsletter
  • YouTube
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
The information provided on this site is not legal advice and should not be interpreted as such. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult an attorney. Contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please refrain from sending any confidential information until an attorney-client relationship has been formally established.
  • © 2025 Monument Legal Services PC d/b/a Monument Legal
  • |
  • Privacy Policy