Setareh Law
January 25, 2025
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident can be traumatic and overwhelming. You were hit and possibly sustained injuries, and the other car fled. In this situation, you might be confused as to what to do next. There are numerous reasons why a driver might flee the accident scene. Some drivers may be afraid, confused, or guilty about the accident. Other drivers may have more complicated reasons for fleeing. For example, the driver might be uninsured or driving without a license.
They may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Whatever their reason, you have no control over the other driver’s actions. You only are able to control your response to the situation. A car accident report is crucial, especially in a hit-and-run case, as it can provide valuable information for legal proceedings.
Understanding Hit and Run Accidents
Definition and Consequences
A hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a car accident flees the scene without stopping to provide their contact and insurance information to the other parties involved or offering aid to anyone injured. In California, leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling these obligations is a serious offense that can lead to criminal charges, fines, and potential imprisonment, depending on the severity of the accident and whether it caused injuries or fatalities.
Hit-and-run incidents not only complicate the process of seeking compensation but also add emotional distress to the injured parties. Understanding the gravity of a hit-and-run conviction can help you appreciate the importance of staying at the scene and fulfilling your legal responsibilities.
3 Steps to Take After the Other Driver Has Fled the Scene
It is understandable if you are disoriented and confused after an accident. A hit-and-run can be incredibly stressful because the other driver left you stranded, possibly injured, and scared. The law requires that drivers remain at the accident scene; however, hit-and-runs are still far too common.
According to the American Automobile Association, approximately 11% of police-reported accidents involve a driver fleeing the scene. If you are involved in an accident in which the other driver flees the scene, it is essential to remain calm and focus on the following three steps. Law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in investigating hit-and-run accidents by utilizing social media for leads, organizing public awareness campaigns, and leveraging surveillance technology to identify suspects.
Gather All Possible Information about the Accident Scene
It is normal to go into shock after an accident. You will likely feel confused and scared, but you must focus on the details in front of you. You should try to recall anything about the other vehicle. Apart from the license plate number, important details you should try to catch may include:
- Vehicle model and make
- Vehicle’s color
- Any damages the other vehicle might have sustained
- Window stickers or recognizable logos
Any information you can retain about the vehicle is going to be crucial when filing a report. It will also be beneficial for you to remember information about the crash itself. Make a note of everything you remember. If there are potential witnesses, make sure to talk to them if you can. Hit and run cases present significant challenges for law enforcement, making it essential to gather as much information as possible to aid in solving these incidents.
Do Not Chase after the Other Driver
Attempting to chase the other driver will jeopardize the accident scene, and it may place you or other passengers in danger. If you chase after the driver, you essentially disturb the crime scene, making it harder for police to determine what happened. If their report is unclear, it might affect your claim. Chasing the other driver means risking even more damage to yourself. It is far better for you to remain where you are and call the police. They will know how to handle the situation.
Get Medical Help and Call the Police
Your health and safety come first, which is why you should not chase after the other vehicle. Instead, contact 911 and the police. Once you are out of any potential danger, you will file a police report. Filing a police report will give investigators the chance to locate the fleeing driver and arrest them for the hit-and-run. The police report will also show when, where, and how the accident occurred. This information is crucial when claiming damages with an insurance company.
Understanding Your Rights
Fault Determination and Compensation
Determining fault in a hit-and-run accident can be a complex process, especially when the at-fault driver flees the scene. However, investigators utilize available evidence and witness accounts to piece together the sequence of events. If the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified or remains at large, the injured party may still seek compensation through their own insurance policy if they have uninsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage is designed to protect you when the other driver is either uninsured or cannot be located. It is essential to understand your rights and seek the help of a personal injury lawyer to navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. A knowledgeable attorney can help you gather evidence, file claims, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Reviewing Your Auto Insurance Policy
If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, it is crucial to review your auto insurance policy carefully to understand your coverage options. Uninsured motorist coverage can help cover your medical expenses and property damage caused by the hit-and-run driver. Collision coverage can also help cover the repairs to your vehicle, regardless of who was at fault. A lawyer can review your policy in detail to understand its coverage limitations and the steps it outlines in filing a claim.
They can also create a detailed list of the damage to your vehicle and other areas of compensation you are entitled to recover. Navigating car accident claims can be daunting, but with the right legal support, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you need to recover from the incident.
Contact the Experienced Car Accident Attorneys at Setareh Law Today
The attorneys at Setareh Law have experience handling numerous types of crashes, from tailgating accidents to hit-and-runs. Our car accident attorneys have a proven track record of representing their clients in all types of personal injury claims. We know how to conduct a full investigation to determine the identity of the at-fault party. Our attorneys will handle all negotiations with insurance companies and prepare your case for trial if necessary.
At Setareh Law, we are determined to fight for the compensation that you deserve. When it comes to injuries sustained in a car accident, we want nothing more than to help you receive justice for your pain. If you bring your case to us, we may be able to win you the compensation you are due. Call (310) 659-1826 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free case evaluation.
