In the chaotic moments after a hit-and-run accident, confusion and fear are common. Unlike a typical car accident, these incidents leave victims with unanswered questions: Who was responsible? How will medical bills be covered? What legal recourse exists? Getting in touch with a hit-and-run accident lawyer who can inform you of your rights makes all the difference.
Injured victims navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run or other auto accident can rely on Davana Law for skilled legal representation and unwavering advocacy. Led by experienced automobile and motor vehicle accident attorneys, our team represents clients throughout California, combining strategic litigation with compassionate guidance to secure the compensation they deserve. To request a free case evaluation, call us at (818) 501-1055 today!
Below, we share what to do in the wake of a hit-and-run case:
1. Prioritize Safety and Medical Attention
Immediately after the crash, get yourself to a safe location and call 911. First responders can assess your injuries and create documentation that will support your insurance claim. If emergency care isn’t needed, schedule a visit with your doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries take time to show symptoms, and early diagnosis helps protect your health and your legal case.
While you wait for help, document the scene. Take photos of your vehicle, the road, skid marks, debris, or anything else that might aid an investigation. Write down what you remember about the other car, including its color, model, or any part of the license plate you saw. Witness statements and security camera footage from nearby businesses can also help reconstruct the event.
2. File a Police Report and Notify Your Insurer
Report the crash to the police within 24 hours, even if you don’t have all the driver’s details. A formal report will open the door for law enforcement to investigate and will also be required by your insurer. Be honest and thorough in your statement, and ask for a copy of the report for your records.
Next, notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run. However, be aware that insurers often move fast to offer a settlement. While this might seem helpful at first, these early offers are frequently calculated to minimize the payout, leaving victims without full coverage for medical bills, lost income, and long-term care. Our experienced car accident lawyers can step in to evaluate the true value of your claim, protect you from accepting liability, and negotiate directly with the insurer to secure compensation that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.
3. Understand Legal Specifications
In many states, fleeing the scene of an accident is a criminal offense. Charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the severity of injuries or property damage. In California, for instance, a felony hit-and-run offense can carry years of prison time, steep fines, and a permanent mark on the driver’s record.
While prosecutors handle criminal charges, victims can still file a civil claim against the at-fault driver. If the individual is later identified, your lawyer can help you build a case for damages, including pain and suffering, long-term medical care, and reduced earning potential. Legal action also helps hold reckless drivers accountable for their actions.
4. Compensation Options When the Driver Isn’t Found
In cases where the driver remains unidentified, compensation may still be available through your own insurance policy. Uninsured motorist coverage can be used for many types of expenses, including emergency care, physical therapy, lost wages, and damage to your vehicle. However, insurance companies may try to minimize your payout or deny your claim entirely.
An attorney with experience in hit-and-run cases can guide you through the process, gather supporting evidence, and negotiate directly with your insurance provider. Their role is to make sure your policy works for you, not against you.
Trusted California Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers Can Protect Your Rights
A hit-and-run accident can leave victims feeling overwhelmed and unsupported, but taking the right legal steps early on can make a significant difference. At Davana Law, our team of qualified hit-and-run accident lawyers in California can help you preserve evidence, communicate with insurers, and pursue the full compensation you need for your injuries and losses. To request a free case evaluation, call us at (818) 501-1055 today!
