Trusted Bail Bonds Across California

Bail Bonds for Hit and Run

If someone you care about has been arrested for a hit and run in California, time is critical. Whether it’s a misdemeanor involving property damage or a serious felony involving injury or death, Cali Bail Bonds is here to act fast — so your loved one doesn’t have to spend unnecessary time in jail. We’re available 24/7 across all 58 California counties, offering flexible payment plans, 1% down bail bonds (on approved credit), secure digital paperwork with e-signatures, and no collateral options for many hit and run cases. When every second counts, Cali Bail Bonds is just a phone call away.

Serving All Counties In California

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What Is Hit and Run?

Being arrested for a hit and run in California can be overwhelming — but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether it’s a misdemeanor involving property damage or a felony tied to injury or death, Cali Bail Bonds is here to help secure your release quickly and affordably. Our licensed agents work across all 58 California counties, offering fast, dependable support to families during some of life’s most stressful moments.

⚖️ California Legal Definition of Hit and Run

Under California law, leaving the scene of an accident without stopping, identifying yourself, or providing assistance can lead to serious criminal charges. Depending on the outcome of the incident — and whether injury, death, or only property damage occurred — hit and run offenses may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.

Here are the most common hit and run charges under the California Vehicle Code:

Misdemeanor Hit and Run (Vehicle Code § 20002):
Failing to stop and provide information after an accident involving only property damage (e.g., hitting a parked car or fence). Even minor incidents can result in criminal charges if you leave the scene.

Felony Hit and Run (Vehicle Code § 20001):
Leaving the scene of an accident where another person is injured or killed. The law requires the driver to stop, offer assistance, and report the incident. Failing to do so can result in felony charges, especially if the driver was at fault or under the influence.

Failure to Report (Vehicle Code § 20003–20004):
Drivers involved in an accident must provide identification, render aid if someone is injured, and report the crash to authorities. Not doing so can lead to additional penalties.

Examples of hit and run scenarios:

  • Backing into a parked vehicle and driving off without leaving a note

  • Fleeing the scene after injuring a pedestrian or cyclist

  • Leaving after a crash involving another car, even if you weren’t at fault

Penalties may include jail or prison time, fines, license suspension, probation, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. Whether you’re dealing with a misunderstanding or a serious accident, Cali Bail Bonds is ready to help you navigate the bail process and get your loved one released fast.

Types of Hit and Run in California

Hit and run charges in California can range from minor traffic collisions involving property damage to serious felonies involving injury or death — and the consequences can be just as severe. At Cali Bail Bonds, we provide fast, statewide bail support for both misdemeanor and felony hit and run cases. Here’s what you need to know about the most common hit and run charges we handle:

Misdemeanor Hit and Run Charges

Misdemeanor hit and run offenses usually involve accidents that result in property damage only, such as damaging another vehicle, a fence, or other personal property — without reporting the incident or providing contact information. While these cases are less severe than felony charges, they can still result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record.

Relevant California Law:

  • Vehicle Code § 20002 – Failing to stop and provide information after an accident involving property damage only

Common Examples of Misdemeanor Hit and Run:

  • Scraping a parked car and driving off without leaving a note

  • Hitting a mailbox, fence, or parked vehicle and failing to report it

  • Rear-ending another car and fleeing the scene without exchanging info

Penalties for Misdemeanor Hit and Run:

  • Up to 6 months in county jail

  • Fines of up to $1,000

  • Restitution for property damage

  • Driver’s license suspension

  • Probation, driving school, or community service

  • A permanent mark on your criminal and driving record

Even in non-injury cases, failing to stop can escalate the situation. That’s why posting bail quickly and dealing with the legal process head-on is so important.

Felony Hit and Run Charges

Felony hit and run charges arise when an accident results in bodily injury or death, and the driver fails to stop, render aid, or notify authorities. These are far more serious offenses with significant legal consequences — especially if the driver was at fault, intoxicated, or had prior convictions.

Relevant California Law:

  • Vehicle Code § 20001 – Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death without providing required assistance or reporting the incident

Common Examples of Felony Hit and Run:

  • Causing an accident where someone is injured and fleeing the scene

  • Leaving after hitting a pedestrian, cyclist, or motorcyclist

  • Fleeing after a serious crash that results in death

  • Failure to call 911 or provide aid when someone is seriously hurt

Penalties for Felony Hit and Run:

  • 2 to 4 years in state prison (or more if DUI is involved)

  • Fines of $1,000 to $10,000

  • Mandatory restitution to injured victims

  • Felony probation or parole

  • Lifetime driver’s license revocation (in some cases)

  • Permanent felony record

In many cases, the judge may also impose additional penalties if alcohol, drugs, or reckless driving played a role in the crash. Felony hit and run charges often come with high bail amounts — especially if there’s a serious injury or death involved.

At Cali Bail Bonds, we understand the urgency and emotional weight that hit and run charges bring. Whether it’s a first-time misdemeanor or a felony with major consequences, our experienced agents act quickly to post bail and guide you through the next steps — so your loved one can begin building a legal defense right away. We’re here 24/7, committed to helping you regain control during a difficult time.

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What Is the Bail Amount for Hit and Run In California?

Bail amounts for hit and run offenses can vary widely. These charges may be filed as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the nature of the crash and the damage or injuries involved. Each California county uses a bail schedule that sets standard amounts for specific offenses, but a judge can increase or reduce the amount based on the circumstances of the case.

 Bail Amounts Vary Based On:

Severity of Injuries or Damage

If the hit and run involved serious bodily injury or a fatality, the bail amount is typically much higher. Cases with extensive damage or multiple victims — especially those that make headlines — may also result in increased bail due to heightened public concern.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor Charges

  • Misdemeanor Hit and Run (VC § 20002): Involves only property damage. Bail is generally lower when no one was hurt and the accused has no prior record.

  • Felony Hit and Run (VC § 20001): Involves injury or death to another person. These cases carry significantly higher bail amounts due to the increased threat to public safety and legal severity.

Defendant’s Criminal History

Judges take into account a defendant’s prior record when setting bail. A history of traffic violations, DUI, reckless driving, or failure to appear in court can raise bail significantly — and in some cases, may even result in bail being denied.

Flight Risk

Ironically, fleeing the scene of an accident can lead to the perception that the defendant may flee again. If the court believes the individual poses a risk of not appearing in court, the judge may set a higher bail to ensure compliance.

Whether it’s a misdemeanor involving a fender bender or a felony involving serious injury, Cali Bail Bonds is here to help you post bail fast and affordably. We offer free inmate searches, flexible financing options, and 24/7 support — because when someone you care about is behind bars, time is everything.

 Factors That Affect Bail Amounts for Hit and Run Charges

In California, bail amounts for hit and run offenses aren’t one-size-fits-all — they depend on the details of each case. Judges consider a range of factors when determining how much bail to set, especially when injury, property damage, or public safety is involved. Knowing what influences these decisions can help you understand the process — and how Cali Bail Bonds can step in to reduce the financial stress with fast service and flexible payment options.

Prior Criminal Record

If the defendant has prior convictions — particularly for traffic offenses, DUI, reckless driving, or previous hit and run incidents — the court is likely to impose a higher bail amount. A repeat offender is viewed as a higher risk to the community and less likely to comply with court orders.

Flight Risk

A hit and run arrest often involves concerns about the defendant fleeing from responsibility. If there’s a history of failing to appear in court, no strong ties to the area, or indications that the defendant might not return for future hearings, the judge may set a higher bail to reduce the risk of further evasion.

Public Safety Concerns

When a hit and run causes serious injury or death — or involves aggravating factors like high speeds, DUI, or school zones — judges weigh the potential threat to public safety. In these cases, bail may be set higher to reflect the severity of the danger posed to the community.

Severity of the Incident

Bail is directly impacted by whether the incident caused property damage, bodily injury, or death. Minor property damage typically results in lower bail, while accidents involving serious injuries or fatalities will almost always lead to higher amounts.

Involvement of Alcohol or Drugs

If the hit and run involved driving under the influence, additional DUI-related charges may increase the seriousness of the offense — and the corresponding bail amount. Judges are less lenient when intoxication is a factor, especially if others were hurt.

Enhancements & Special Circumstances

Certain factors can enhance charges and lead to higher bail. These may include:

  • Multiple victims

  • Accidents in school zones or near pedestrian-heavy areas

  • Repeat offenses

  • Allegations of reckless or intentional evasion

When these aggravating elements are present, judges may view the case as more serious and adjust the bail amount accordingly.

📞 Need Help Understanding Your Options?

Not sure how much bail is required, what charges are being filed, or where your loved one is being held? Cali Bail Bonds can help. We offer a free inmate search and case consultation to provide:

  • Bail amount and eligibility information

  • Booking and arrest details

  • Jail location and visitation rules

  • Clear steps to post bail and get your loved one released

Steps

How The Bail Process Works

Getting arrested for a hit and run can be a stressful and confusing experience — especially if injury or serious property damage is involved. At Cali Bail Bonds, we’re here to guide you through every step of the bail process with speed, clarity, and compassion. No matter where the arrest happens in California, our team works 24/7 to secure your loved one’s release as quickly as possible.

01.

Arrest & Booking

The defendant is taken to the nearest jail, where they are fingerprinted, photographed, and officially processed. Charges are filed based on whether the hit and run involved property damage, injury, or death.

02

Bail Set by Judge

For most hit and run charges, bail is determined by the county’s bail schedule. However, a judge may adjust the amount higher or lower depending on the severity of the case and the defendant’s history.

03.

Contact Cali Bail Bonds

Reach out to us immediately — we’re available 24/7. Use our free inmate search tool or speak directly with a licensed bail agent to get started right away.

04.

Sign & Pay Online

We make the process simple and convenient with secure digital paperwork and flexible payment plans. Qualifying clients may be eligible for 1% down and no collateral options.

05.

We Post Bail

Once everything is signed and payment is arranged, our local agent goes directly to the jail to post bail and initiate the release process.

06.

Release from Jail

Depending on the jail’s processing time, the defendant is typically released within 1 to 4 hours. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

07.

Attend Court

After release, the defendant must attend all scheduled court dates and comply with any bail conditions set by the court. Failure to appear can result in re-arrest and forfeiture of the bond.

Payment Plan Options

At Cali Bail Bonds, we know that being arrested for a hit and run — especially when serious injuries or felony charges are involved — can bring financial stress on top of an already overwhelming situation. That’s why we offer flexible, affordable payment options to help you or your loved one get released quickly, without the burden of paying everything upfront. Whether bail is set at $10,000 or $100,000, we’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your budget and gets your loved one home fast.

10% Standard Bail Bonds

In California, the standard bail bond premium is 10% of the total bail amount. This is a one-time, non-refundable fee that allows us to post bail on your behalf.
Example: If bail is set at $40,000, your payment would be $4,000.

1% Down Bail Bonds (OAC)

Don’t have the full 10% available right now? Qualified clients may be eligible for our 1% down program, allowing you to get started with as little as 1% upfront.
The remaining balance is split into zero-interest payments — so you can secure release without delay.

Flexible Payment Plans

We build payment plans that work with your income, credit, and financial situation. Most of our plans run between 3 to 12 months and come with:

  • No hidden fees

  • No penalties for early payoff

  • Easy online access

We believe in keeping things clear, honest, and manageable from start to finish.

No Collateral Bail Bonds

In many hit and run cases — especially misdemeanors or first-time offenses — we don’t require property or collateral to secure the bond. If you or your co-signer have stable income, decent credit, and no prior bond forfeitures, you may qualify for no-collateral release.

Accepted Payment Methods

We accept a wide range of secure, convenient payment options:

  • Credit & Debit Cards

  • Zelle

  • Cash

  • Bank Transfers

  • Online Payments (mobile or desktop)

📞 Need Help Choosing a Payment Plan?

Call 888-365-3113 now to speak with one of our experienced agents. We’ll explain your options, walk you through the bail process, and get started within minutes.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to post bail for a hit and run arrest in California?

Yes. In most hit and run cases, bail must be posted before the defendant can be released from custody. The amount depends on whether the charge is a misdemeanor (property damage only) or felony (involving injury or death).

What’s the typical bail amount for a hit and run charge?

Bail can range from $5,000 to over $100,000. Misdemeanor hit and run involving only property damage tends to be on the lower end, while felony hit and run with injury or death will carry much higher bail amounts.

How long does it take to bail someone out after a hit and run arrest?

Once bail is set and paperwork is complete, most defendants are released within 1 to 4 hours, depending on the jail facility. Cali Bail Bonds works fast to reduce your wait time.

Can I bail someone out if the hit and run involved a DUI?

Yes, but DUI involvement may increase the bail amount and add additional charges. We’ve handled many DUI + hit and run cases and can still provide flexible bail options.

Do you offer payment plans for hit and run bail bonds?

Absolutely. We offer 1% down bail bonds (on approved credit), custom monthly plans, and no-interest financing to help you get your loved one out without financial strain.

Will I need collateral to post bail for a hit and run?

Not always. If the co-signer has good credit, stable income, and no bond forfeiture history, collateral may be waived. Every case is reviewed individually.

What happens if the person I bail out doesn’t show up to court?

If the defendant misses court, the judge can issue a bench warrant and the bail may be forfeited. Cali Bail Bonds will work with you to avoid this — including helping you reschedule or surrender voluntarily when appropriate.

Can I post bail on weekends or holidays?

Yes. Cali Bail Bonds is open 24/7, 365 days a year — including weekends and holidays. Arrests don’t wait, and neither do we.

What’s the difference between misdemeanor and felony hit and run?

Misdemeanor (VC § 20002): Property damage only, no injuries

Felony (VC § 20001): Involves injury or death to another person
Felony charges carry higher bail, longer jail time, and more serious consequences.

How can I find out where my loved one is being held?

Just call us or use our free inmate search tool. We can quickly locate your loved one, provide bail amount info, and guide you through the next steps.

FREE & INSTANT INMATE LOCATOR

Fill The Information & An Agent Will Contact You Within 5-10 Minutes. Our goal is to find the inmate and deliver information regarding their arrest and potential bail options in any county.