Hurt in a Hit-And-Run? Here’s What You Need to Know

While no one wants to be involved in a car wreck, this already traumatic event is made infinitely worse when the at-fault driver flees the scene. In most situations, it may seem like your only option is to dig into your own coverage—and pockets—to cover your accident-related expenses. However, it might still be possible for police and/or an attorney to help identify the at-fault driver, giving you a potential pathway towards recovering compensation. 

In California, fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious offense that carries strict penalties for the guilty party. In this article, we look at the laws surrounding such accidents and what you should do in the aftermath of a hit-and-run collision. 

What Are California’s Hit-And-Run Laws? 

Drivers who flee the scene of an accident can face harsh penalties. The severity of these punishments is usually based on the amount of damage they caused. For instance, if a motorist leaves the scene of an accident resulting in property damage—but no injuries—without sharing their information, he or she may face up to six months behind bars and fines of up to $1,000. Alternatively, if the accident left someone dead or with permanent injuries, the hit-and-run driver could spend up to four years in prison and pay up to $10,000 in fines. 

What Should I Do After a Hit-And-Run Accident? 

In the immediate aftermath, your safety should be your top priority. If possible, you should move your car out of the way of any traffic, and then contact authorities. Taking this step will ensure that anyone who requires medical attention receives care without delay. Additionally, police officers will likely arrive to investigate what happened.  

You should try providing as many details to officers as possible as this could make it easier for them to identify the at-fault driver. For instance, what was the car’s make, model, and color? Did you see the license plate number? Do you remember what the driver looked like? 

If you are physically able to do so, you should also document the accident scene by taking pictures of your vehicle, injuries, road markings, street signs, pieces of debris, and any other elements that could help your attorney piece together the events leading up to the crash. If you see any surveillance cameras nearby or someone captured footage of the accident on their vehicle’s dashcam, you should try obtaining such footage as it may help you identify the at-fault driver. Additionally, if someone else saw the accident take place, they may be able to help you track down the fleeing motorist.  

Speak to a Car Accident Attorney in California Today 

Were you seriously hurt in a hit-and-run accident? Turn to the car accident lawyers at HPIL to find out how you might be able to recover compensation for your medical bills and other damages. Our legal team can help investigate the wreck, gather evidence, and take other steps to help identify the at-fault driver. Dial 1-800-GO-HARRIS or click through to our contact page HERE to request a free case review.