Being involved in a car accident is traumatic, but when the at-fault driver flees the scene, it creates even more challenges for victims. Hit-and-run accidents can result in serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about how to recover compensation. Understanding your legal options is essential to moving forward.
Kohan & Bablove Injury Attorneys are here to guide victims through the legal process, helping them pursue justice and seek compensation for their losses.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver involved in a collision leaves without stopping to exchange contact and insurance information, assist injured parties, or notify authorities. Common hit-and-run incidents include:
- Car accidents where the at-fault driver flees the scene of the accident.
- Pedestrian or cyclist collisions where the victim is left injured and the driver fails to notice or refuses to stop.
- Property damage cases, such as a vehicle hitting a parked car and leaving without notice or filing an accident report.
Laws in most states, including California, require drivers to stop and provide their personal information and insurance details after an accident. Leaving the scene is a criminal offense that carries significant penalties and legal consequences, such as fines, jail time, and license suspension.
Why Do Drivers Leave the Scene?
Drivers may flee for various reasons, including:
- Driving without a valid insurance policy or license.
- An impaired driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Fear of legal or financial consequences.
- An undocumented driver fears deportation.
- Driver leaves for fear of incarceration due to previous convictions.
- Panic or lack of awareness that they caused an accident.
Regardless of the reason, a hit-and-run driver’s actions often leave victims struggling with both physical and financial recovery.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, taking immediate steps can strengthen your case and help you pursue compensation:
1. Contact the Police Immediately
File a police report as soon as possible. Provide details about the accident scene, the fleeing vehicle (e.g., license plate number, make, and color), and any witnesses. This report is crucial for both legal and insurance claims.
2. Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, property damage, and any injuries. Collect personal contact information from witnesses who can provide additional details about the negligent driver responsible.
3. Seek Medical Attention
Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical care promptly. Seeking medical attention and keeping medical records will document your injuries and are vital to recovering compensation for medical expenses.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your own insurance company about the hit-and-run accident. Uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage may help cover medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
5. Consult an Experienced Attorney
A personal injury attorney can help identify all possible sources of compensation, handle the claims process, and advocate for your rights.
How Authorities Track Down Hit and Run Drivers After a Crash in Orange County
When a hit-and-run driver flees the scene of an accident, law enforcement and legal professionals use various methods to locate the responsible party. Collecting evidence is critical and time sensitive after an accident where the other driver does not identify themselves. In Orange County, police investigations are often supported by modern technology and witness cooperation. California law, including Vehicle Code §20001, outlines the obligation for drivers involved in an accident to stop and exchange information. Fleeing is a criminal offense, and authorities can take extensive measures to identify the run driver.
Investigative Tools Used to Locate Fleeing Drivers
- Traffic and Security Camera Footage
Many intersections and businesses in Orange County are equipped with surveillance or traffic cameras. These cameras can provide critical evidence, such as the fleeing vehicle’s license plate, make, and direction of travel. Law enforcement can request this footage to identify the hit-and-run driver. Building security cameras can be another valuable resource. - License Plate Recognition (LPR) Systems
Orange County law enforcement utilizes license plate recognition systems, which automatically scan and record plates on vehicles passing fixed or mobile units. These systems are particularly effective for locating a hit-and-run car involved in a run crash. - Witness Reports
Police often collect witness statements to build a timeline and description of the scene of a crash. Witnesses may notice distinguishing features, such as damage to the fleeing vehicle, which can narrow down potential suspects. - Vehicle Registration Databases
If partial license plate information is available, authorities can cross-reference this with vehicle registration databases to identify possible matches. This approach is especially useful in areas with high traffic and frequent motor vehicle accidents. - Collision Evidence Analysis
Forensic experts may analyze debris left at the crash scene, such as paint transfer, broken parts, or tire marks. This evidence can help determine the make and model of the fleeing vehicle, aiding the search for the at-fault driver.
Legal Implications for Fleeing Drivers
Drivers who flee the scene of an accident face significant consequences, both criminal and civil. Under California law:
- Criminal Charges: Fleeing after causing injury or property damage can lead to fines, jail time, and suspension of the driver’s license.
- Civil Liability: Victims may pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, even if the hit-and-run driver is apprehended later.
Law enforcement’s ability to use advanced tools and investigative techniques ensures many hit-and-run drivers are eventually held accountable for their actions.
Compensation for Hit-and-Run Victims
Even if the at-fault driver isn’t located, victims of hit-and-run accidents may still be able to recover damages through other means. Potential sources of compensation include:
1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If your auto policy includes uninsured motorist coverage, it may cover damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
2. Collision Coverage
For vehicle repairs or replacement, collision coverage on your policy can help cover property damage.
3. Legal Action Against the At-Fault Driver
If the fleeing driver is identified, you may file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, property damage, and other losses.
Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases
Hit-and-run cases can be complicated by factors such as:
- Identifying the negligent driver: Evidence like traffic camera footage, witness statements, and surveillance footage may be necessary to locate the at-fault party.
- Insurance company disputes: Insurers may delay or deny claims, making it difficult to recover full compensation.
Working with legal professionals ensures that your rights are protected and your case is handled effectively.
How Kohan & Bablove Injury Attorneys Can Help
At Kohan & Bablove Injury Attorneys, we understand the complexities of hit-and-run cases and the devastating effects they have on victims. Our experienced team will investigate your accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue legal action if necessary. We are committed to helping you recover the maximum compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Learn more about hit-and-run accidents and the legal help available to you. Call Kohan & Bablove Injury Attorneys at (949) 535-1341 to schedule your no obligation free consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
Hit-and-Run Accident FAQs
1. What should I do if I witness a hit-and-run?
If you witness a hit-and-run, try to note the fleeing vehicle’s license plate number, make, model, and direction of travel. Report the incident to the police immediately.
2. Can I still recover compensation if the at-fault driver isn’t found?
Yes, you may file a claim through your uninsured motorist coverage or other applicable policies. An attorney can help you explore all available legal options.
3. How long do I have to file a claim after a hit-and-run accident?
California law generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, insurance deadlines may vary, so it’s best to act quickly.
4. Will filing a claim for a hit-and-run accident increase my premiums?
Your premiums shouldn’t increase if you were not at fault, but this depends on your policy. Check with your insurance company to confirm.
5. Can I sue the hit-and-run driver if they are found?
Yes, if the at-fault party is identified, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for your injuries, lost wages, and more.
For more information or assistance, contact Kohan & Bablove Injury Attorneys today.
