Hit-and-Run Victims: What are My Options?

Anyone who has been a victim of a car accident can feel overwhelmed and helpless, but this goes doubly so for victims of a hit-and-run. While reporting the incident to law enforcement is important, finding a law firm that will use its knowledge of California personal injury law to represent you vigorously is critical.

For instance, take a recent incident on June 22, 2024 when a pedestrian was struck and killed crossing Western Avenue inside a marked crosswalk. The driver of the car that struck her, a white pickup truck, drove off without identifying themselves or offering aid as is required by California law.

This fatality is tragic for the family of the victim, but it is also instructive of the need for a personal injury attorney, who can help families like this in wrongful death actions. In other cases, the attorneys can pursue actions to recover costs of your medical expenses, property damage, and any other potential damages.

If you are involved in a hit-and-run, your priority should be to report the incident to law enforcement to create an official record of the accident. The police can then start an investigation and attempt to find the driver. You should also prioritize seeking medical attention for any injuries you suffered. Make sure to keep records of all procedures and treatments you received or were recommended.

Once you have retained a personal injury attorney, they will use the police incident and hospital records to initiate legal proceedings if the perpetrator has been identified. But even if the driver is still unknown, a personal injury lawyer will still be able to assist you in negotiating payments with your insurance company. 

Your insurance may have uninsured motorist coverage that can be a source of compensation if the hit-and-run driver remains uninsured. There is also the California Victim Compensation Board, a payor of last resort to victims of crimes, who can provide financial assistance.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a hit-and-run in California, don't hesitate to reach out to a reputable personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options. Taking proactive steps now can make a significant difference in securing the compensation you deserve.