If you get injured in a car accident in California, the at-fault driver’s automobile insurance policy is legally supposed to provide coverage for your losses. If the other driver leaves the scene of the accident without stopping, also known as a hit-and-run accident, this can complicate the claims process. There are steps you must take in this situation to protect your rights.
Call 911
Immediately report an accident where the other driver flees the scene. A hit-and-run is a criminal offense in California that needs to be reported to the police. Call 911 to notify law enforcement of what happened. When the police arrive, give them as many details as you can about the crash and the other driver or vehicle.
Write down your police report number for future reference and continue cooperating with the police during their investigation of the crash. There is a possibility that their investigation will uncover the identity of the other driver, who may then face criminal charges and penalties for breaking California’s driver responsibility laws.
Get Medical Care
Part of what makes a hit-and-run so dangerous is that the victims often suffer delays in medical treatment, potentially worsening their injuries and the level of harm suffered. Always get medical attention immediately after a hit-and-run.
Your shock and adrenaline may be masking pain. Get a checkup even if you initially feel fine, as you may have hidden injuries that will show themselves later. Keep copies of your hospital records and medical bills.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you can, remain at the scene of the car accident to collect as much evidence as possible. While gathering evidence is an important part of any car accident claim, it is especially crucial after a hit-and-run, as the available information may be used to piece together the identity of the other driver.
Collect information such as the names of any eyewitnesses, a description of everything you remember about the other vehicle, photographs of physical evidence or debris left at the scene, and any available video footage of the crash.
If you are unable to stay at the scene to collect evidence yourself, the police can do so for you. You also have the right to contact a San Francisco car accident attorney to conduct an investigation and preserve key evidence that can help your injury claim.
What to Do if the Other Driver Leaves the Scene of the Accident
File Your Claim
It is still possible to recover financial compensation if the other driver is never found or identified. In many cases, the injured victim has underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage that can pay for their own losses. Contact your insurance provider to find out if you have the appropriate type of coverage.
In other cases, the fleeing driver is identified later. At this point, his or her car insurance policy can become responsible for your damages. You may also have the right to file a lawsuit directly against the driver or a third party. If your claim involved a defective vehicle part or unsafe road condition, for example, other parties beyond the other driver may be held liable.
Consult With an Attorney
Hit-and-run car accident cases in California can be difficult to navigate. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. You have the right to hire a personal injury lawyer who can provide professional legal guidance during the claims process.
You can trust your San Francisco personal injury lawyer to communicate with law enforcement, uncover all available sources of insurance coverage for your claim, handle settlement negotiations with insurance adjusters and protect your rights in the pursuit of maximum compensation. For a free consultation about a recent hit-and-run accident in California, contact Jacoby & Meyers.