A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver leaves the scene without providing contact information or helping anyone who is injured. These collisions often bring physical harm, emotional distress, and unexpected financial burdens. Victims may deal with costly medical treatments, car repairs, and the stress of not knowing who caused their troubles. Understanding your rights and the legal steps to follow can help you navigate this challenging time.

A hit-and-run driver violates both moral and legal duties by fleeing. Victims often face an uphill battle in seeking compensation for damages. However, California law provides options to hold these drivers accountable. Whether you work with law enforcement or explore civil remedies, staying informed is key to protecting your interests. At Vaziri Law, our team is here to help those who have suffered a hit-and-run accident.

Table Of Contents

• Definition of a Hit-and-Run Accident
• Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
• Legal Options for Hit-and-Run Victims
• How Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Fights for You After a Hit and Run Accident
• Reach Out To Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Definition of a Hit-and-Run Accident

A hit-and-run occurs when one vehicle involved in a collision departs without sharing contact or insurance details. The law requires all parties to stop, check for injuries, and exchange essential information. Fleeing the scene can leave victims paying out of pocket for damages they did not cause. Let's explore the legal obligations, penalties, and unique factors that set these crashes apart.

Legal Obligations of Drivers in California

Every driver has a duty to remain at the scene of any crash and help those who might be injured. According to the California Vehicle Code, leaving without providing a driver's license number and insurance details can lead to severe penalties. Drivers must also offer assistance, such as calling for an ambulance if someone is hurt. Failure to fulfill these obligations can result in legal consequences that follow you long after the crash.

Besides offering immediate help, motorists must share their name, address, and vehicle registration. Victims have the right to seek compensation for their losses if the vehicle code is broken or if there is property damage. Sticking around ensures that everyone can file proper reports and collect insurance information. Leaving the scene puts the at-fault party in a precarious position once authorities begin an investigation.

Penalties for Fleeing the Scene of an Accident

In California, fleeing the scene can lead to misdemeanor and felony hit penalties. Under California Vehicle Code 20002, drivers who fail to stop and provide necessary details face serious legal action. A misdemeanor hit occurs if the crash only involves property damage, which can lead to county jail time and fines. More severe charges apply when injuries or death result from the incident.

If convicted, a hit-and-run charge can adversely affect your driver's license, future insurance rates, and personal record. Judges can order drivers to pay restitution, serve jail time if someone is seriously harmed, and face other penalties. The seriousness of the injuries and the amount of property damage often determine the level of punishment. Prosecutors may stack charges when the driver's actions demonstrate extreme negligence.

How Hit-and-Run Accidents Differ From Other Collisions

Hit-and-run cases involve a driver who intentionally leaves the site without following standard exchange procedures. Unlike typical collisions, where both parties share insurance details, these crashes force victims to find the hit-and-run driver through investigative work. Delays in gathering evidence can complicate insurance claims and delay legal proceedings. Victims often rely on witnesses, camera footage, and police efforts to uncover who caused the crash.

These crashes introduce more legal hurdles because you might not have an immediate way to identify the other driver. You also might not know if they have valid insurance or a driver's license. The investigation may require tracking down partial plate numbers, witness testimonies, or locating the vehicle involved through reported sightings. The added level of complexity makes it vital to act quickly and seek professional help.

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

Drivers and those injured must know what to do after a car accident. A few steps to remember include:

1. Stay safe. Move your car out of oncoming traffic if possible. Check yourself and others for injuries.

2. Call the police. Report the collision to law enforcement immediately. An official crash report helps document the scene.

3. Gather info. Talk to witnesses and note their contact details. Photograph any evidence left behind by the fleeing driver.

4. Note vehicle details. Write down the vehicle's color, make, and model involved if you saw it. A partial license plate can also help investigators.

5. Document your injuries. Seek medical treatment and keep records of your visits. These records support your claim for damages.

6. Inform your insurance company. Let them know about the incident, but be cautious with statements. They may ask for specifics that affect your potential claim.

7. Contact a lawyer. A legal professional can handle communication with the insurance company. They also help gather evidence to identify the fleeing party.

Common Injuries We See After a Hit and Run Accident.

• Head and Brain injuries. Concussions, skull fractures, or other traumatic brain issues can develop. These injuries often require costly, long-term treatment.

• Broken bones. Sudden impacts cause fractures in arms, legs, or ribs. Recovery may involve surgeries or extended rehabilitation.

• Spinal injuries. Damage to the vertebrae or spinal cord can lead to paralysis or chronic pain. Victims may need ongoing care and lifestyle adjustments.

• Cuts and lacerations. Flying debris or shattered glass often causes deep cuts. Some wounds might need stitches or leave permanent scars.

• Soft tissue damage. Whiplash, strains, and sprains can result in lingering discomfort. Physical therapy becomes necessary to heal these injuries.

Legal Issues We Must Overcome for Those Who Have Suffered a Hit and Run

• Identifying the driver. Without knowing who fled, you cannot hold them accountable. Our team works with investigators, witnesses, and potential video evidence to find the culprit.

• Handling insurance gaps. If the fleeing motorist lacks coverage, we must pursue alternative compensation routes. This can include uninsured motorist claims.

• Proving liability. Establishing fault can be tricky when the other driver is unknown. We use evidence such as skid marks or paint transfers to build a strong case.

• Addressing vehicle registration issues. The at-fault driver may have an invalid registration. We help you untangle this administrative challenge to find a path to compensation.

• Managing hit-and-run charges. Criminal accusations against the driver may intersect with your civil claim. We coordinate with law enforcement to ensure you get the support you deserve.

Legal Options for Hit-and-Run Victims

Victims can explore different avenues to seek compensation. Insurance coverage, civil litigation, and investigative methods each play a role in resolving these matters. The right approach depends on evidence, severity of injuries, and whether authorities locate the offender.

Pursuing Compensation Through Civil Litigation

Filing a civil lawsuit can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Civil actions allow you to hold the person who fled accountable for their careless behavior. Even if there are criminal charges, you have the right to pursue separate legal action. A successful case may lead to a financial award that aids in your recovery.

If you cannot locate the hit-and-run driver immediately, you may still file a lawsuit once they are identified. Courts generally view running from the scene as an aggravating factor. Presenting evidence of your injuries and property damage strengthens your position. A reliable legal team can guide you through the procedure, from preparing documents to negotiating settlements. Take a look at our car accident settlement calculator to ensure you don't overlook anything.

Tracking Down the Responsible Party

Sometimes, law enforcement or independent investigators find evidence that leads to the suspect. Police may rely on security cameras, eyewitness accounts, or forensic details such as paint samples. Taking immediate steps to gather data greatly increases the odds of identifying the fleeing individual. Delays give suspects more time to hide or repair their vehicle.

Private investigators can supplement police efforts if resources are stretched thin. Hiring professionals may speed up the search process, especially in complicated hit-and-run cases. Their specialized knowledge in tracking down hidden information can mean the difference between a solved case and an unsolved mystery. Collaborating with an attorney helps coordinate the process of unveiling new evidence.

Working With an Attorney to Navigate Complex Claims

A lawyer knows how to handle negotiations with your insurance company and manage any legal hurdles. They can review your policy to see if you have coverage that applies when the other driver cannot be found. Building a solid claim requires careful documentation, including medical records and witness statements. With professional help, you reduce the risk of errors that might hurt your chances for compensation.

Attorneys also have the resources to handle unexpected twists, like disputes over liability or incomplete evidence. They can provide insight into settlement ranges so you know what to expect if you go to court. Having an expert on your side frees you to focus on healing and rebuilding. Meanwhile, your legal team pushes for a resolution that respects your rights.

Helping You Fight for the Largest Possible Settlement

A skilled lawyer argues for the full extent of your losses. They consider long-term care, emotional suffering, and burden on your ability to earn. They can seek a larger settlement by painting a complete picture of what the hit and run cost them. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts, but an experienced advocate pushes back.

Negotiations may require evidence of medical treatments, therapy costs, and expected future bills. Supporting documents show exactly how the crash changed your life. By having precise records, you strengthen your position at the negotiating table. When the other side sees you have solid proof, they become more open to fair offers. That is why partnering with our Los Angeles car accident lawyer is critical.

How Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Fights for You After a Hit and Run Accident

• Evidence gathering. We seek camera footage, witness accounts, and any data that identifies the fleeing driver. Our methods help uncover the truth behind the crash.

• Legal guidance. Our team explains each step of your case, from insurance negotiations to potential lawsuits. You can focus on healing while we handle the complexities.

• Negotiation with the insurance company. We advocate for maximum compensation that reflects your injuries and losses. Our experience protects you from lowball offers.

• Assistance with driver's license issues. If your injuries affect your ability to drive, we guide you on potential license-related hurdles. We also investigate whether the at-fault party had a valid driver's license.

• Support through court proceedings. If negotiations fail, we stand ready to present your case. We aim to prove the effects of the crash and hold the responsible party accountable.

Reach Out To Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

You do not have to face the aftermath of a hit-and-run alone. At Vaziri Law, our legal team knows the laws and the challenges that arise when a driver flees the scene. We are committed to investigating every lead, protecting your rights, and fighting for fair compensation. Our case results and client testimonials show how hard we fight for our clients. Contact us now for a free consultation and learn how we can guide you through this difficult process.