If you have been accused of leaving the scene of an accident in Washington, you could be facing jail time, fines, and even the loss of your driver’s license.
Understanding how state law defines a hit and run, and what the penalties are can help you make informed choices about your defense.
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Question: How do you win a Washington DOL hearing?
Direct answer: In Washington State, the punishment for a hit-and-run depends on the crash circumstances: property damage only is a misdemeanor, while collisions involving an occupied vehicle, injury, or death can be gross misdemeanors or felonies.
In 2023, Washington recorded 810 traffic fatalities — the highest annual total since 1990, a trend tied to serious-injury and hit-and-run crashes. (Washington State Dept. of Transportation, 2024)
“As the author of the Washington DUI Practice Manual, I advise anyone facing a hit-and-run charge to assume the worst and act immediately,” says Linda M. Callahan, founding attorney at Callahan Law P.S., Inc. (callahanlaw.org)
Under RCW 46.52.010, leaving the scene of a property-damage-only accident is a simple misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Under RCW 46.52.020, if injury or death occurs, it becomes a felony carrying years in prison and license revocation.
Is hit and run a felony in Washington?
Yes, if it causes injury or death.
Is hit and run a felony in Washington?
Yes, if it causes injury Do you lose your license for hit and run in Washington? Yes, a one-year revocation often applies in attended-vehicle cases.or death.
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In Washington, a hit and run means leaving an accident scene without stopping to share information or render aid. The law treats every driver the same, whether the damage seems minor or serious.
If someone was in the other vehicle or a person was hurt, you must stop, exchange information, and provide reasonable help. Failure can lead to a gross misdemeanor or felony charge. See the full explanation at /practice-areas/hit-and-run.
If you strike a parked car or property, you must leave a note with your name, address, and vehicle information. Ignoring this duty can still result in a misdemeanor.
If you are unsure which rule applies, speak with Linda M. Callahan or call (206) 866-3679 for quick guidance.
Washington’s two hit-and-run statutes define these offenses clearly.
The Department of Licensing (DOL) often acts quickly after a hit-and-run conviction. For attended collisions, DOL automatically revokes your license for one year. To regain it, you must satisfy court requirements, pay reinstatement fees, and file SR-22 insurance.
If you received a DOL notice, visit /license-suspension/dol-hearing immediately. Commercial drivers should review /license-suspension/commercial-drivers.
Because criminal and administrative actions are separate, you may need a lawyer for each. Our team handles both under one representation to keep you driving legally while your case proceeds.
Every hit-and-run case turns on proof of intent and identification. Effective defenses may include:
The first few days matter most. Follow these steps:
Linda Callahan and her staff were compassionate, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. My DUI charge was reduced, and I felt supported every step of the way.
From my first phone call with Chris, I felt calmer. He took the time to listen, explained the process clearly, and connected me with Linda. The outcome was better than I ever expected.
Toni and the intake team treated me with such kindness. They never judged me and made sure all my questions were answered. I can’t thank them enough.
Callahan Law is the real deal. My case was dismissed after Linda challenged the breath test results. She’s smart, strategic, and incredibly thorough.
They worked with me on payments and never made me feel pressured. Communication was always fast and clear. I’d recommend them to anyone facing a DUI in Washington.
I was terrified after my arrest, but Linda and her team walked me through everything. I felt like I had real advocates who cared about my future.
From my first call, I knew I was in good hands. They were understanding, knowledgeable, and fought hard for my case.
Callahan Law turned an overwhelming situation into a manageable one. Their professionalism and compassion made all the difference.
You may have only days to request a DOL hearing. Early action can preserve your license and improve your defense options. Do not risk a criminal record or suspension. Contact Callahan Law P.S., Inc. today for a free consultation with Linda M. Callahan, author of the Washington DUI Practice Manual.
Time is critical. If you haven't requested your DOL hearing yet, you have only 7 days from arrest. If you've already requested your hearing, preparing a strong technical defense is essential to protect your driving privileges.
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