Hit and run accidents are among the most devastating and frustrating incidents on the road. Victims are often left with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens, all while trying to identify the driver who fled the scene. California law imposes severe penalties on hit-and-run drivers, but for victims, the primary focus is on recovering compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A San Diego hit and run lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, work to identify the driver responsible, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit and run accident occurs when a driver leaves the scene without providing identification or assistance to the victim. This applies to all types of accidents, from minor collisions to serious crashes involving injuries or fatalities.
Under California Vehicle Code § 20001, leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death is a felony offense, while fleeing after causing property damage is a misdemeanor.
Common Scenarios for Hit and Run Accidents
- Pedestrian accidents – Drivers striking pedestrians and fleeing the scene.
- Bicycle accidents – Collisions with cyclists that result in serious injuries.
- Parking lot collisions – Leaving after damaging another vehicle in a parking lot.
- Rear-end collisions – Fleeing the scene after causing a rear-end accident.
Common Injuries in Hit and Run Accidents
Hit and run accidents often result in severe injuries, especially when victims are left without immediate medical assistance. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Lacerations and soft tissue injuries
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately and contact a San Diego hit and run lawyer for legal assistance.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation:
- Call 911 – Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance if needed.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the scene, damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries.
- Look for witnesses – Obtain contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Record details – Write down any details you remember about the fleeing vehicle (license plate, color, make, model).
- Contact your insurance company – Notify your insurer of the accident.
- Consult with a hit and run lawyer – An attorney can help you investigate the case and pursue compensation.
How a San Diego Hit and Run Lawyer Can Help
Filing a claim after a hit-and-run accident can be complex and overwhelming, especially when the at-fault driver is unknown. An experienced San Diego hit and run lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident – Work with law enforcement, review traffic camera footage, and gather witness statements to identify the responsible driver.
- Negotiate with insurance companies – Help you file claims through your own insurance policy, including uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.
- Assess your damages – Calculate the full extent of your financial and emotional losses.
- Represent you in court – If necessary, file a personal injury lawsuit to secure the compensation you deserve.
With a skilled attorney on your side, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal process.
Compensation Available in a Hit and Run Accident Case
Victims of hit and run accidents may be entitled to significant compensation for their losses. Potential damages include:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses – Past and future treatment, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity – Compensation for time missed from work and diminished future income.
- Property damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering – Physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident.
- Emotional distress – Anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – Reduced quality of life due to permanent injuries.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the hit-and-run driver is identified and their actions were especially egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the driver and deter future misconduct.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
If the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified or does not have insurance, victims can file a claim under their own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This type of insurance is mandatory in California unless you opt out in writing. It covers:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
A San Diego hit and run lawyer can help you navigate the UM claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation.
California’s Statute of Limitations for Hit and Run Lawsuits
In California, there are strict deadlines for filing personal injury and property damage claims related to hit-and-run accidents:
- Two years from the date of injury for personal injury claims.
- Three years from the date of the accident for property damage claims.
Failing to meet these deadlines can bar you from seeking compensation, so it’s crucial to contact a San Diego hit and run lawyer as soon as possible.
Why Choose The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock?
At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, we are committed to helping hit-and-run accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. We offer:
- Decades of experience handling personal injury and hit-and-run cases.
- Access to top investigators and accident reconstruction experts.
- Personalized legal strategies tailored to your unique situation.
- Aggressive representation to fight for maximum compensation.
Contact a San Diego Hit and Run Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit and run accident, you don’t have to face this journey alone. A San Diego hit and run lawyer can help you hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward justice.
References
- California Department of Motor Vehicles. (2024). California Vehicle Code – Hit and Run Laws. Retrieved from https://www.dmv.ca.gov
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Injuries and Trauma from Motor Vehicle Accidents. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
- California Department of Insurance. (2024). Uninsured Motorist Coverage Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.insurance.ca.gov
