When a driver hits another car and flees the scene, it is considered a hit and run. California Vehicle Code (VEH) §20002 prohibits an individual from leaving the scene of an accident without providing their identification. Not only is it the law but it is also the right thing to do. Drivers should check to see if the occupants in the other vehicle are okay. Accident victims may require medical attention, even if the collision was minor.
If you or a loved one was injured or killed, a Santa Ana hit and run accident lawyer can help. Call Ben Crump, PLLC for a free consultation by dialing (844) 730-0233. Hit and run accidents are complex, but we do not shy away from tough cases. Plus, we operate on a contingency-fee-basis, meaning you pay nothing out of pocket unless we win.
Hit and Run Accident
Not all at-fault drivers do the right thing and stop to exchange information. This makes it difficult to collect the other driver’s insurance information or bring forth a civil suit. An investigation is needed to determine the responsible party. In the worst cases, the at-fault party is never identified. For these reasons, hit and run accidents are legally challenging.
You may wonder how someone could do such a thing. There are a host of reasons why drivers flee. Drivers who hit another car and run may be intoxicated, have an outstanding warrant, or have something illegal in their vehicles. Perhaps they simply do not want to be held financially responsible. Although it is also illegal to flee the scene of an accident, some drivers may want to take their chances and try to get away with it.
For a free legal consultation with a hit and run accidents lawyer serving Santa Ana, call (844) 730-0233
Liability
Proving liability in a hit and run case has a unique set of challenges. If the accident occurred in a well-lit area with multiple eye-witnesses and camera surveillance, the fleeing driver may be easily identifiable.
In contrast, if there were no witnesses or videos, it may be an uphill battle for the police to determine the identity of the driver. If you have not already, contact the police and get medical attention. The sooner you take action, the better.
Santa Ana Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
Assessing Damages Following a Hit and Run Accident
There are many factors to consider when evaluating damages after a hit and run accident. An attorney can help you iron out what losses you experienced. You may be experiencing many stressors, including medical bills piling up and mental trauma from the accident. Your attorney can help you through the process of assessing damages so you can focus on your health and recovery. You may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses: Medical bills for your recovery might be the most expensive result of the hit and run accident. When you calculate everything, including hospital bills, ambulance bills, prescriptions, and physical therapy, you may be financially overwhelmed.
- Lost wages: If you missed days of work because of the accident, you may have new financial problems stemming from the accident. Bills are accumulating, yet you have to miss work to go to the doctor’s office. If you have become disabled, you may never be able to earn the same wages.
- Pain & suffering: You may be able to seek compensation for pain and suffering from your accident. Of course, no amount of money could ever make everything right. However, it can be helpful as you rebuild your life.
If the at-fault party and their insurance company refuse to agree with a settlement, your lawyer will fight for you in a trial. Do not hesitate to connect with a Santa Ana hit and run accident lawyer at Ben Crump, PLLC. During your free initial case evaluation, you will get an idea of a timeline and potential settlement amount.
Death
The guilty party may face serious criminal consequences if they are located, but it is up to you to pursue compensation through civil court. No settlement can bring justice for a tragedy of this magnitude, but loved ones may be entitled to:
- Hospital and ambulance bills
- Funeral expenses
- Burial costs
- Loss of potential wages
- Loss of companionship
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Why You Should Hire a Lawyer
After a hit and run accident, you may wonder where to turn. A lawyer can help support you in numerous ways as you pursue justice. In addition to efforts by law enforcement, your attorney’s office will conduct its own investigation. They can help you recollect any details of the accident and interview witnesses. Eye-witnesses are important in any car accident, but especially so when there is a hit and run since the driver fled the scene.
Even if you do not have a cell phone or dashcam video, there is a chance an onlooker or gas station caught part of the hit and run. There is also a possibility that a traffic camera caught the accident.
Your lawyer will work on your behalf to gather all of the reports, footage, and evidence needed. Working with a lawyer, you can concentrate on getting better.
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Call Today
You may wonder where to turn for help after a car accident. As soon as you are well enough to do so, consider hiring a Santa Ana hit and run accident lawyer. When you have a lawyer, you are never alone in the legal proceedings.
Note that there is a limited amount of time to file a claim. According to the California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, you generally have two years to sue for personal injury. Call Ben Crump, PLLC at (844) 730-0233 as soon as possible after your accident.
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