Getting involved in a hit-and-run accident in Sacramento can be stressful and confusing. You may not know where to seek financial compensation or damages for your injuries, medical bills and property repairs. Even if the other driver is not identified, however, you may still be eligible for compensation from one or more parties.
Our Sacramento hit-and-run accident attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers provide legal representation in car accident cases in Sacramento and throughout California. We can help you pursue appropriate medical treatment, handle your property damage, and explore available legal remedies. Contact us for a free consultation with a hit-and-run attorney near you.
$2B+ Recovered For Our Clients*
Hit-and-Run Drivers Think They Can Escape Responsibility
Many hit-and-run cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning attorney’s fees may depend on the outcome of your case. Fee arrangements are explained during your consultation.
Why Choose Jacoby & Meyers
- Our Sacramento car accident lawyers have experience handling complex car accident claims, including hit-and-runs. Our law firm has been serving injured Californians and their families since 1972. We handle serious automotive accident cases.
- We’re right where you need us. Our Sacramento office is located at 1215 K St. 17th Floor, Sacramento, CA 95814. As local attorneys, we are familiar with Sacramento’s roadways and traffic conditions.
- Jacoby & Meyers reports that it has recovered over $2 billion in settlements for California clients.* This includes six-figure and seven-figure car accident case results.*
*Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Sacramento
A hit-and-run is a crime in Sacramento. Under California Vehicle Code § 20002, it is a misdemeanor for a driver involved in an accident to flee the scene without stopping, rendering aid, and exchanging information. This law lists certain legal responsibilities all drivers have after car accidents. Failing to fulfill them can result in criminal charges.
Penalties for a Hit-and-Run in Sacramento
A hit-and-run conviction in Sacramento can lead to a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in county jail. The charges and penalties can increase if the hit-and-run driver caused an accident involving bodily injuries or deaths. A hit-and-run may also result in civil liability, which gives victims the right to seek financial compensation from the driver for damages suffered.
Common Types of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Sacramento
A hit-and-run accident can take place anywhere, at any time. They may occur more often at night, when visibility is reduced, or when impaired driving is a factor. Hit-and-runs can occur on major freeways, city roads, residential neighborhoods and at intersections. These collisions can involve motor vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Statistics on Hit-and-Run Accidents in Sacramento County
Based on data provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety, 467 hit-and-run accidents resulting in injury or death were reported in Sacramento County in 2022 (the most recent year data available at the time of publication). This reflects a 7.6 percent increase from 433 hit-and-runs in 2021.
Why You Need a Sacramento Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
Navigating a hit-and-run accident in Sacramento can be difficult, especially if you suffered serious injuries. Hiring a lawyer can help manage the legal process. Your lawyer can take over communications with an insurance company and help protect your rights during the claims process.
Investigating Your Hit-and-Run Case
Your lawyer may conduct an investigation of the hit-and-run crash to attempt to identify the at-fault driver. Your lawyer may then pursue financial recovery using available sources of compensation. This may include your own car insurance provider, the at-fault driver or a third party, such as a company, employer, vehicle manufacturer or the government.
Navigating the Sacramento County Court System
Although many car accident cases in Sacramento resolve through settlement, some cases may proceed to court. An attorney with trial experience can represent you in court if litigation becomes necessary. Your attorney can navigate the Sacramento County court system while you focus on your recovery.
Types of Compensation Available in Hit-and-Run Cases
A hit-and-run accident case in Sacramento may allow you to pursue financial recovery for related expenses. You may be eligible for the following damages:
- Medical bills and health care (past and future)
- Lost wages and employment benefits
- Lost capacity to earn due to a disability
- Property damage repairs or the replacement of a totaled vehicle
- Out-of-pocket costs, such as rental car reimbursement
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
Since fleeing the scene of a car accident is a crime, punitive damages may also be available in certain cases. Punitive damages are awarded in limited circumstances to penalize particularly egregious conduct.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Sacramento
If you get into a car accident and the other driver leaves the scene without stopping, pull over immediately to assess yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 to report the crash to the Sacramento Police Department and request paramedics, if necessary. Tell the police that the other driver did not stop at the scene.
Write down as much as you can remember about the accident, such as the color or model of the other driver’s car, the direction he or she was traveling, a description of the driver, and partial license plate numbers. These details can assist law enforcement. Document evidence while at the scene if you can, such as photographs of the damage to your property and the surrounding roadway.
Report the hit-and-run crash to your own car insurance provider. You may have uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance that covers certain losses. Before accepting an insurance settlement, consider speaking with a Sacramento personal injury lawyer to review your options.
Contact Our Sacramento Hit-and-Run Accident Legal Team
If you were recently involved in a hit-and-run accident in Sacramento or the surrounding area, the legal team at Jacoby & Meyers can assist you in pursuing physical, emotional and financial recovery. We can handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on your recovery.
Many cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning attorney’s fees may depend on the outcome of the case. Fee arrangements are explained during consultation. Call our local law office at (916) 269-8918 or contact us online to request your free case review.
Jacoby & Meyers Accident & Injury Lawyers – Sacramento
1215 K St 17th floor
Sacramento, CA 95814