Hit and run accidents leave victims with more than just physical injuries. They often carry emotional stress, financial hardship, and a frustrating sense of injustice. Many victims do not know where to turn, especially when the driver responsible flees the scene. At LA Injury Lawyers, we help clients stand up for their rights and pursue compensation even when the at-fault party disappears.
Protect your rights starting today. Schedule a free case evaluation. You pay nothing unless we win.
What Counts as a Hit and Run Car Accident?
California law defines a hit-and-run accident as any car accident where a driver leaves the scene without identifying themselves or providing assistance to anyone injured. This includes:
- Collisions with other vehicles where the driver flees
- Pedestrian accidents where the motorist drives away
- Property damage where no note or information is left
Legal Classification
- Misdemeanor hit and run: Involves property damage only
- Felony hit and run: Involves injury or death
Regardless of classification, fleeing the scene is a crime in California. Victims may have both civil and criminal legal options.
Legal Rights of a Hit and Run Victim in California
Victims of hit-and-run car accidents in Los Angeles have legal protections under both state and insurance laws. Even if the driver is never identified, you still have the right to seek compensation through:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage under your auto policy
- California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) for out-of-pocket losses
If the driver is found, you can pursue a civil claim for:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages for reckless conduct
Steps to Take Immediately After the Incident
Taking the right actions immediately after a hit and run can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here is what you should do:
1. Call 911
- Report the crash and request medical help if needed.
- Ensure a police report is created.
2. Document the Scene
- Take photos of the damage, debris, and the surrounding area.
- Note any witnesses or nearby surveillance cameras.
3. Seek Medical Attention
- Even minor symptoms could indicate serious injuries like Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Paralysis, etc.
- Documentation helps link injuries to the accident.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
- Inform your insurer that it was a hit-and-run.
- Do not give a recorded statement without legal guidance.
Who Pays for Your Damages in a Hit and Run?
One of the most common concerns is, “Who covers my expenses if the driver cannot be found?” The good news is you may still be covered.
Insurance Options:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Pays for medical and sometimes property damage
- Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): Covers immediate medical bills regardless of fault
- Collision Coverage: Pays for vehicle damage, minus your deductible
If you do not have these coverages, you may be eligible to apply for compensation from the California Victim Compensation Board for medical and counseling costs.
Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
Navigating a hit-and-run case can be challenging when done alone. Insurance companies may question your version of events, minimize your injuries, or even deny your claim.
An experienced car accident attorney will:
- Launch a thorough investigation to identify the driver
- Subpoena surveillance footage or mobile phone data
- Work with crash reconstruction experts
- Handle communication with insurers
- Help file a claim with the California Victim Compensation Board
Having a lawyer improves your chances of receiving full compensation and keeps you from being taken advantage of.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In California, there are strict time limits to file a claim:
- Personal injury: Two years from the date of the accident
- Property damage: Three years from the date of the accident
If the driver is identified later, new deadlines may apply for filing a lawsuit. Missing these deadlines may permanently bar you from recovering any compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Whether the driver is found or not, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages: Income lost due to missed work, including future earning potential
- Pain and suffering: Emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle
In some cases, if the hit-and-run driver is identified and their behavior is especially egregious, the court may also award punitive damages.
Your Case Matters. Let LA Injury Lawyers Help You Win.
Being the victim of a hit-and-run car accident does not mean you are powerless. Our legal team has helped thousands of injured clients recover their lives and finances after devastating accidents.
Proven Results:
- $11 Million for a brain injury victim
- $10 Million for a car accident victim
- $8.2 Million for a motorcycle accident victim
- $7 Million for a back injury victim
Call LA Injury Lawyers today at (818) 539-5390 or email in**@*************rs.com to schedule your free evaluation. You pay nothing unless we win.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is considered a hit and run in Los Angeles?
Any driver involved in an accident who leaves the scene without identifying themselves or assisting injured persons has committed a hit-and-run offense. - What are my rights as a hit-and-run victim in California?
You may be entitled to compensation through your insurance, the California Victim Compensation Board, or a civil lawsuit if the driver is found. - Can I still file a claim if I didn’t receive the license plate number?
Yes. A lawyer can help investigate the case by utilizing witness statements, traffic cameras, and other relevant evidence. - Will my car insurance pay for a hit-and-run accident?
If you have uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage, your insurer will likely pay for your injuries and property damage. - How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a hit-and-run incident?
In most cases, two years for injury claims and three years for property damage. Always consult a lawyer promptly to protect your rights.
