Hit & Run & Serious Motoring Offences
Top Hit & Run Attorneys in England
Protecting Your Rights and Future After a Road Accident
Being accused of a hit and run — legally referred to in the UK as “failing to stop” or “failing to report an accident” — is a serious criminal matter. Even if the collision caused only minor damage, leaving the scene without providing your details or reporting it to the police can lead to criminal charges, penalty points, heavy fines, disqualification, and even imprisonment.
At Anderson & Cole Solicitors, we understand how frightening and stressful these accusations can be. Our goal is to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and achieve the best possible outcome — whether that means avoiding prosecution, reducing penalties, or clearing your name entirely.
With offices serving clients throughout London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, and across England and Wales, we provide experienced, strategic representation for both motoring and criminal defence cases.
Understanding “Failing to Stop” and “Failing to Report” Offences
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988 (Sections 170–172), drivers have a legal duty to stop and provide details if an accident occurs involving injury, another vehicle, property, or certain animals.
Legal Duties After an Accident
If you are involved in a collision, the law requires that you:
Stop immediately at or near the scene.
Exchange details (name, address, vehicle registration, and owner information) with anyone reasonably affected — such as the other driver or property owner.
Report the accident to the police within 24 hours if details were not exchanged at the scene.
Failing to comply with these obligations is a criminal offence.
Penalties for Failing to Stop or Report an Accident
| Offence | Possible Penalty |
|---|---|
| Failing to Stop | Up to 6 months’ imprisonment, unlimited fine, 5–10 penalty points, or discretionary disqualification |
| Failing to Report | Up to 6 months’ imprisonment, unlimited fine, 5–10 penalty points, or discretionary disqualification |
In more serious cases — such as where injury was caused, or the driver attempted to evade responsibility — the offence can attract immediate imprisonment and a lengthy driving ban.
The court also has the power to order a re-test and endorse your driving record, which can increase insurance premiums and affect future employment.
Common Reasons Behind Hit and Run Allegations
We know that not every failure to stop or report is deliberate. There are often genuine and understandable explanations, such as:
Panic or shock immediately after the accident
Unawareness of any impact or damage (especially in low-speed or minor contact cases)
Fear for personal safety at the scene
Confusion about reporting procedures
Medical emergencies or distress
At Anderson & Cole, we take the time to listen to your side of the story and develop a tailored defence strategy.
Building a Strong Defence
Our solicitors carefully examine every detail of the prosecution’s case to identify weaknesses, inconsistencies, and opportunities for defence.
We can:
Challenge whether you were the actual driver involved
Show you were unaware that an accident occurred
Question the accuracy of witness statements or police identification
Present mitigating evidence explaining your conduct
Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or avoid court altogether
Our objective is always to secure the best possible outcome — whether that’s an acquittal, reduced penalties, or an alternative resolution such as a conditional discharge.
Why Choose Anderson & Cole Attorneys?
✅ Specialists in Motoring & Criminal Law
We have extensive experience defending failing to stop/report cases and other motoring offences across England and Wales.
✅ Tailored Legal Strategy
Every client receives personal attention, honest advice, and a defence plan built around their circumstances.
✅ Strong Courtroom Advocacy
Our solicitors are experienced advocates who know how to challenge prosecution evidence effectively.
✅ Discreet and Supportive Service
We handle your case with sensitivity, understanding, and professionalism throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Report the incident to the police as soon as possible. Taking responsibility early can sometimes prevent prosecution or reduce penalties.
Possibly, but we can argue that lack of awareness or intent means you didn’t commit the offence. Each case depends on evidence and witness accounts.
A disqualification is discretionary but likely in serious cases. We can argue for penalty points instead, especially for first-time offenders.
Fear for your safety or threats at the scene can amount to a reasonable excuse — we can present this evidence in your defence.
Unlike drivers, passengers have no legal duty to report an accident, though they may be interviewed as witnesses.
Speak to a Specialist Hit & Run Defence Attorney
If you’ve been accused of failing to stop or report an accident, Anderson & Cole Solicitors are here to help. We’ll protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible result. We proudly represent clients across England and Wales, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Bristol, and surrounding areas.
complete our online enquiry form and one of our Attorneys will get back to you promptly.
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