When you hear the term “20002” in the context of law enforcement, you’re probably wondering what it signifies. Commonly associated with California, this police code refers to a hit-and-run incident involving property damage. It’s a term often heard over police scanners or mentioned in legal documents, but its implications and specifics are worth unpacking.
This blog post will help you fully understand what police code 20002 means, its legal implications, and what to do if you’re involved in such an incident.
What does police code 20002 mean?
Under California law, specifically the California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 20002, this code defines a hit-and-run accident that results solely in property damage, such as damage to another vehicle, building, or roadside property. Crucially, it does not include cases involving bodily injury or fatalities (which would fall under CVC 20001).
The key elements of police code 20002 include:
- Property damage only: No injuries or fatalities are associated with the incident.
- Failure to stop or provide information: The driver responsible for the collision fails to remain at the scene or provide their personal and vehicle information to the affected parties.
This sets 20002 hit-and-runs apart from more severe cases (such as felonies under 20001), which involve bodily harm or death. Importantly, even in minor accidents, fleeing the scene is considered a criminal offense and can lead to significant consequences.
Legal obligations in a 20002 incident
If you’re involved in an accident that damages someone else’s property, California law outlines specific steps you are legally required to take. Failing to follow these rules could lead to a 20002 charge. Here’s what you should do:
1. Stop immediately
The first and most basic legal requirement is to stop at the scene of the accident. It doesn’t matter how minor the incident seems; driving away without stopping is illegal.
2. Identify yourself
Once stopped, you must provide your information to the property owner or other affected party. This includes:
– Your name
– Address
– Vehicle registration number
– Your driver’s license (if requested)
3. Take responsibility if the owner isn’t present
If the damaged property’s owner isn’t available (e.g., hitting a parked car or damaging a fence), you are legally obliged to leave a note with your information in a conspicuous place. Additionally, you must contact the local police or California Highway Patrol to report the incident.
4. Report the accident to authorities
If the damages exceed $1,000 or involve a parked vehicle with no owner present, you must also report the incident to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days.
Failing to follow these steps can escalate the situation from a minor traffic incident to a criminal offense under code 20002.
What happens if you’re charged with a 20002 hit-and-run?
If you’re charged under police code 20002, this is typically treated as a misdemeanor offense in California. However, the specific penalties can vary depending on the circumstances. Here’s what you might expect:
Penalties for a 20002 Violation:
- Fines: You may face fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on the severity of the property damage.
- Probation: Courts may assign probation, often lasting up to 3 years, as part of the penalty.
- Restitution: You are required to compensate the property owner for any damages caused.
- Community service: Courts may order you to complete a set number of community service hours.
- Driving record impacts: A hit-and-run violation can lead to points added to your driving record, which could increase your auto insurance premiums.
- License suspension: Depending on the situation, DMV could suspend your license.
- Possible jail time: While rare for first-time offenders, offenders may face jail time (up to 6 months) in cases involving excessive property damage or repeat offenses.
It’s important to note that even if the property damage seems minor, the legal consequences of fleeing the scene are far more severe than those of handling the situation responsibly.
Common misconceptions about police code 20002
There are several myths surrounding police codes and hit-and-run incidents. Here are a few to clarify:
1. “It’s not a hit-and-run if nobody is hurt”
False. Police code 20002 specifically targets hit-and-run incidents involving property damage, even if no one is injured.
2. “I don’t need to report it if the damage is minor”
False. California law requires drivers to exchange information and, in some cases, report incidents to the DMV, regardless of the damage’s extent.
3. “Leaving a note is optional”
False. If the property owner isn’t present, leaving a note is legally mandatory. Omitting this step constitutes a hit-and-run.
What to do if you’re involved in a 20002 incident
Whether you’re the driver or the victim of a hit-and-run, the way you handle the situation plays a crucial role in determining the outcome. Follow these steps to protect yourself legally:
For drivers:
- Stop immediately and assess the extent of the damage.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with affected parties.
- Take photos of the scene and the damage for documentation purposes.
- Contact the local police to file a report if required.
- If applicable, notify your insurance company.
For victims:
- Try to gather as much evidence as possible, such as the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number.
- Take pictures of the damage and the surrounding scene.
- Contact law enforcement to report the incident.
- Notify your insurance and provide them with any evidence or reports.
How to avoid police code 20002 violations
Prevention is always better than reactive measures. Follow these tips to reduce your chances of being involved in a 20002 incident:
- Drive responsibly to avoid accidents in the first place.
- Always remain at the scene, even if the incident seems minor.
- Keep a notepad and pen in your car for leaving notes when necessary.
- Ensure your ID, registration, and insurance details are accessible in your vehicle.
- Familiarize yourself with California traffic laws.
Take accountability and know your rights
Understanding police code 20002 is critical for any California motorist. Whether you’re a driver or property owner, knowing your legal responsibilities can help you handle a hit-and-run situation the right way, avoiding unnecessary criminal charges and penalties.
If you’ve found this article helpful, share it with a friend or family member who could benefit from knowing more about traffic laws. For additional tips on protecting your driving record and dealing with similar traffic incidents, stay tuned to our blog.