Detectives are attempting to identify two individuals captured on video leaving the Target Store located at 3300 S. Bristol St. and entering their parked vehicle.
The younger Hispanic male entered the driver’s side, and as they attempted to exit, their vehicle struck a parked car. The men then swapped seats and drove off without providing any information.
An accident isn’t a crime — a hit and run is.
If you have any information about their identity or whereabouts, please contact Police Investigative Specialist J. Soto at (714) 245-8214 or jsoto5@santa-ana.org.
Data regarding undocumented drivers without auto insurance
An estimated 3.3% of California drivers have no record of a driver’s license and cannot legally obtain auto insurance—many of whom are undocumented. Among this group, a significant portion is believed to be driving without insurance.
Here’s what the data shows:
- California’s overall uninsured driver rate is about 16.6%, higher than the national average of 13%.
- Undocumented immigrants make up a portion of this group, especially those who do not qualify for a driver’s license under California’s AB 60 law or choose not to apply.
- Drivers without a license cannot legally purchase auto insurance, which means many undocumented drivers who are unlicensed are likely uninsured.
- Exact percentages are hard to verify, but estimates suggest that a majority of unlicensed undocumented drivers are uninsured, due to legal and financial barriers.
California’s AB 60 law allows undocumented residents to apply for a driver’s license, which in turn enables them to purchase insurance. However, not all undocumented individuals take advantage of this option, and some may still drive without coverage.
Santa Ana’s high population density, economic diversity and Sanctuary City status may contribute to more unlicensed or uninsured drivers overall, regardless of immigration status.
Legal Penalties faced by the Hit and Run Suspects
If the suspects are charged with misdemeanor hit and run under California law, they could face the following penalties:
- Misdemeanor hit and run (Vehicle Code § 20002)
- Applies when a driver leaves the scene of an accident involving property damage without providing contact information
- Penalty: up to 6 months in county jail
- Fine: up to $1,000
- Possible probation and restitution to the victim for damages
- Driver’s license consequences
- DMV may impose points on the driver’s record
- Possible suspension or revocation depending on prior history
- Insurance impact
- Conviction may lead to increased premiums or cancellation of coverage
- Victims may file civil claims for damages not covered by insurance
- Aggravating factors
- If the suspects have prior offenses or were driving without a license or insurance, penalties may be enhanced
- If the damage was significant or involved reckless driving, prosecutors may seek harsher consequences