Passionately Advocating for Justice on Behalf of Injured Victims
The state of California has more hit and run accidents than any other state in the country. In fact, 10% of the state’s fatal motor vehicle accidents are hit and run accidents. What is considered a hit and run accident? Any time the driver of a vehicle that is involved in an accident leaves the scene, regardless of who was at fault, this is considered a hit and run accident. All drivers who are involved in a motor vehicle accident must stop to check if anyone involved was injured, render aid if necessary, and exchange driver information. If you were injured by a driver you left the scene of the accident, you need a skilled motor vehicle accident attorney to ensure you are adequately compensated.
At Martinian Lawyers, our Los Angeles hit and run lawyers are committed to pursuing justice on behalf of accident victims and are backed by a proven track record of success. Our Los Angeles car accident attorneys have recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients and will fight to secure maximum financial compensation for you as well.
For the representation you deserve, contact our office today at (323) 850-1900 to schedule a free consultation!
California Hit and Run Law
Under California law, drivers are required to pull over and exchange insurance information with the other driver. Even if the driver who is not responsible for the accident flees the scene, this would still be considered a hit and run, which is a criminal offense. Oftentimes, hit and run accidents occur because the individual is afraid of being caught for another offense, such as drunk driving, distracted driving, speeding, or other forms of reckless driving.
What Should I Do After a Hit and Run Accident?
Car accidents are overwhelming enough, but in a hit and run accident you might feel even more frustrated and stressed. Remember to try your best to remain calm so you are better able to gather as much information as possible.
Taking the following hit and run accident steps can help you as you move forward with a claim:
- Write down as many details as you can about the vehicle that hit you, including the make and model of the car and the license plate.
- Contact law enforcement immediately and provide the above information you were able to collect.
- If any witnesses were at the scene, gather their information as well.
- Take pictures of your injuries, the damage done to your vehicle, and of the scene itself, which could potentially provide some critical details.
- Contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney.
How Long Do You Have to Report a Hit and Run in Los Angeles, California?
You have two years to report a hit and run accident in California. It is much better to report the accident before that time. If the driver who committed the hit and run is identified, your insurance company will make a claim to the other driver’s insurance company for the damages. If not, your collision coverage should cover damage to your car, but comprehensive coverage will not. If you carry MedPay (which is an optional, no-fault insurance that covers medical expenses), you can claim any injury-related expenses that way. If the driver in a California hit and run isn’t identified, you’ll be responsible for paying the cost of your deductible, even though you’re not at fault. However, a hit and run claim can’t raise your insurance rates.
What Can a Hit and Run Lawyer Do for Me?
Thousands of hit and run accidents occur everywhere and, unfortunately, it is difficult to obtain information or to locate the individual who fled the scene of the accident. As such, having an attorney who is experienced in handling claims is critical for those who sustained injuries and are deeply in need of compensation that can cover their medical costs, missed time from work, lost wages, and other expenses associated with the accident.
Remember, even if the driver of the vehicle cannot be found, you can still obtain a financial settlement from your own insurance provider, so make sure you report the accident to them as soon as possible. Although uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) in California cannot be used to cover vehicle damage from a hit and run accident, you can still use uninsured motorist bodily coverage (UMBI) to obtain a settlement through your insurance company.
Additionally, pedestrians and bicyclists are also protected by uninsured motorist coverage if they are struck by a hit and run drivers.
Contact the Skilled Legal Team at Martinian Lawyers Today!
If you sustained injuries in a hit and run accident, you will need a Los Angeles hit and run attorney who understands the complexities associated with insurance coverage and how to recover compensation from every possible source on your behalf. At Martinian Lawyers, our Los Angeles team of personal injury attorneys are passionate about advocating for the rights of those who have been injured by the negligent actions of others and will dedicate our legal talent and resources to ensuring financial recovery that could relieve the burden of having endured this traumatic experience.
We represent clients in the Los Angeles area and throughout the state of California and have even consulted with clients and attorneys nationwide. With decades of experience on our side, you can be confident in our ability to effectively represent you and help you during what is undoubtedly a difficult time for you and your family.
At Martinian Lawyers, we also believe that you should focus on recovering from your injuries while we handle your case, which is why we do not accept payment until we win your case.
For experienced and knowledgeable representation, contact our law firm today at (323) 850-1900 to schedule a free case evaluation with a compassionate hit and run attorney.
