Garden Grove Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
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Garden Grove Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Protecting The Rights Of Injury Victims
Our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident lawyers understand how devastating it is to be left injured and without answers after a reckless driver flees the scene. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a hit-and-run crash, you may be eligible to seek damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
After a crash, drivers are mandated to stop, check on others, and exchange information. It’s not just common decency; it’s the law. When the party at fault vanishes, you may feel helpless and unsure if you can recover compensation for your losses. Our car accident lawyers can help investigate these cases to track down the fleeing driver. Even if the person responsible never gets identified, you may be able to seek compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage or pursue other legal avenues.
What Can Garden Grove Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Do For Your Case?
Skilled hit-and-run accident attorneys in Garden Grove can help protect and advocate for your rights. Here’s what our lawyers can do to support your case:
- Investigate the accident by gathering police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
- Work with medical professionals to document the extent of your injuries.
- Collaborate with expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists and medical specialists, to strengthen your case.
- Identify and calculate damages.
- File the necessary paperwork and manage all communications with insurers.
- Negotiate for fair compensation that reflects your damages allowed by the law.
- Prepare for trial if the other parties refuse to offer a fair settlement.
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Garden Grove, don’t navigate the claims process alone. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers are ready to investigate your case, handle all communications with insurers, and help you navigate the legal process.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Why Choose Our Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys In Garden Grove
Our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident lawyers can support you through the claims process. We’ll handle your case, from investigating the crash to litigation. Here are some of the reasons to hire our lawyers:
- Decades of Experience — Our attorneys have years of combined experience handling hit-and-run cases. We have the experience to navigate even the most complex claims.
- Client-Centric Approach — At Arash Law, we prioritize your needs, keeping you informed, supported, and guiding you in making informed decisions.
- 24/7 Availability — We’re available around the clock to provide answers, guidance, and immediate legal support. Day or night, we’re just a phone call away.
- Negotiation & Litigation — We deal with insurance companies that may try to deny or lower the value of your claim. If we don’t agree to a settlement during negotiations, we’re ready to take the case to court if necessary.
Our Garden Grove injury law firm works to identify all potential sources of compensation and help hold responsible parties accountable.
Questions Victims Frequently Ask Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers In Garden Grove
Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we get from hit-and-run victims. If you have specific concerns about your case, call us at (888) 488-1391.
How Much Will A Hit-And-Run Lawyer Near Me Cost?
Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Garden Grove work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay lawyers’ fees up front, and you only pay if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation you may receive. This arrangement aims to help injured victims have access to legal representation without worrying about upfront costs.
Is It Worth Getting A Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyer?
You might be asking yourself, “Do I need a hit-and-run attorney after an accident?” Hit-and-run cases can be complex, especially if authorities never locate the at-fault driver or if insurance companies try to deny or minimize your claim. Our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident lawyers can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and explore all possible sources of compensation. Without legal representation, you risk receiving less compensation than you might otherwise potentially recover, or nothing at all.
What Should You Ask When Hiring A Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyer?
You might be wondering, “I need a personal injury lawyer, but how do I know I’m choosing the right one for my hit-and-run case?” Not all legal representatives have experience handling the unique challenges of hit-and-run claims, so it’s important to ask the right questions. Good Garden Grove hit-and-run accident attorneys will communicate clearly and be transparent about the process.
Here are some crucial questions to ask:
- How much experience do you have handling hit-and-run accident cases?
- What is your success rate with hit-and-run claims?
- How do you investigate cases and gather evidence?
- Do you work with accident reconstruction experts or private investigators?
- What if the driver remains unidentified? How will you pursue compensation for me?
- Are you willing to take my case to trial if necessary?
- Will I have to pay any upfront costs?
- Who will be handling my case, and will I be able to speak with my lawyer directly?
Can I Sue After A Hit-And-Run Accident?
If the at-fault driver is identified following a hit-and-run, then you can sue them for your injuries. If law enforcement or private investigators locate the driver, your Garden Grove hit-and-run accident lawyer can file a lawsuit against them for damages.
What if the driver remains unknown? Then, you may file a “John Doe” lawsuit. This action keeps the case active while the investigation continues, helping you meet legal deadlines and preserve your right to seek compensation. If the driver is later found, their name may be added to the lawsuit.
Do I Have To Wait For A Criminal Trial Before I Can Sue A Hit-And-Run Driver?
You don’t have to wait for a criminal trial before filing a civil lawsuit against a hit-and-run driver. Criminal cases and civil lawsuits are separate legal matters. A criminal trial focuses on punishing the driver for breaking the law, while a civil lawsuit seeks financial compensation for your injuries and losses. Your hit-and-run accident lawyer in Garden Grove can file a lawsuit to help pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
In fact, waiting for a criminal case to conclude could hurt your chances of seeking compensation since California’s statute of limitations limits how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the hit-and-run driver is later convicted, that conviction could strengthen your civil case, but it’s not required to move forward with a claim.
How Much Can I Receive For A Hit-And-Run Accident?
Hit-and-run settlements vary widely, depending on the extent of your losses. Generally, cases involving more severe injuries, permanent disabilities, or wrongful deaths may result in more significant compensation. To learn what your case may be worth, call (888) 488-1391 to speak with our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident lawyers.
Will A Hit-And-Run Claim Raise My Insurance?
It depends on your insurance policy, your provider’s practices, and whether the hit-and-run driver is identified. If the at-fault driver is found and their insurance pays for your damages, your rates likely won’t be affected. Suppose the driver is not identified, and you file a claim under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) property damage coverage. In that case, it usually won’t count as an at-fault accident in California and should not cause a premium increase.
However, if you don’t have UM coverage and instead use your collision coverage, some insurers may treat the claim as an at-fault or chargeable accident, which could lead to higher premiums.
To understand how your specific policy handles hit-and-run claims, speak with our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident attorneys for personalized guidance and help to navigate the claims process.
Does Insurance Cover Hit-And-Run Parked Cars In California?
Yes. If the authorities fail to identify the at-fault driver, you may be able to file a claim under your insurance policy. Collision coverage pays for the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle, regardless of who caused the accident. However, you’ll have to pay a deductible before coverage kicks in. It’s advisable to review your policy and consult hit-and-run accident lawyers in Garden Grove to explore all compensation options.
Hurt in a Hit-And-Run Accident?
Deadlines For Filing For A Hit-And-Run Accident Case
If you’re pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, the statute of limitations in California generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file. For vehicle repairs or other property damage, you typically have up to three years. However, insurance claims often have much shorter deadlines, and some policies require you to file within 30 days. Missing these deadlines may affect your right to seek compensation, so it’s crucial to take action promptly.
If the hit-and-run driver’s identity is unknown, you may still file a lawsuit against a “John Doe” defendant to keep your case active while the investigation continues. Doing so allows you to preserve your legal rights while searching for the at-fault driver. If the authorities later identify them, their name can be added to the case.
Our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident attorneys work to file your claim on time, investigate every legal option, and advocate for your rights.
California Hit-And-Run Laws
In California, leaving the scene of an accident without stopping is a serious offense, regardless of whether anyone is injured. Any driver involved in an accident must stop immediately at the scene. They are required to exchange information with the other parties involved, including name, contact details, driver’s license number, vehicle registration, and insurance information.
If anyone sustained injuries, drivers also have a legal duty to provide reasonable assistance, which may include calling 911, helping the victims get medical attention, or waiting for emergency responders to arrive. Failing to stop and fulfill these obligations can result in criminal charges, fines, and even jail time.
California’s hit-and-run laws exist to protect victims and hold reckless drivers accountable. Unfortunately, many drivers choose to flee, leaving injured victims uncertain about what to do next. Even if the authorities can’t locate the at-fault driver, you may still be able to seek compensation. Speak with our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident lawyers to learn more about your legal rights and options.
Why Hit-And-Run Accidents Happen
Hit-and-runs happen for many reasons, but they all have one thing in common: a driver choosing to flee instead of taking responsibility. Some drivers panic, while others knowingly break the law to avoid consequences. Here are some of the common reasons why drivers choose to leave the scene:
- Fear of Legal Trouble — Drivers may flee due to outstanding warrants or prior offenses.
- No Insurance or Valid License — Uninsured or unlicensed drivers may leave the scene to avoid fines, legal action, or impoundment of their vehicle.
- Driving Under the Influence — Intoxicated drivers may fear DUI charges and choose to run rather than face the consequences.
- Reckless Driving — Speeding, aggressive, or distracted drivers may flee to avoid being held accountable for their actions.
- Panic or Shock — Some drivers may panic, especially if they are young, inexperienced, or unaware of the law.
Whatever the reason, fleeing the scene is never justified. If you or someone you know is a victim of a hit-and-run, contact us for a free case assessment. Let our experienced attorneys for hit-and-run accidents in Garden Grove handle the legal process while you focus on recovery.
How Our Attorneys Prove Negligence In A Hit-And-Run Accident
To establish liability, you must prove that the fleeing driver was negligent and caused your injuries. Negligence is a legal concept that holds people responsible when their careless actions harm others. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Garden Grove work to prove the following elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — Every driver has a legal duty to follow traffic laws and drive safely to avoid harming others on the road.
- Breach of Duty — The driver violated this duty when they acted recklessly, such as by speeding, running a red light, or leaving the scene of an accident.
- Causation — The driver’s reckless actions directly caused your injuries. Critical pieces of evidence, like witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction, can help prove fault.
- Damages — You suffered actual losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or property damage, because of the hit-and-run accident.
In some hit-and-run accidents, more than one party may be responsible for the crash. Under California’s pure comparative negligence system, liability is allocated based on each party’s percentage of fault. So, if multiple parties contributed to the accident, each one is financially responsible for their share of the damages.
Insurance Coverage Options For Hit-And-Run Victims
If the authorities are able to identify and apprehend the at-fault driver, you can file a claim directly against the driver’s insurance or even file a personal injury lawsuit. However, even if they’re never found, you may still have options for compensation. Here are some insurance coverage options for hit-and-run victims:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage — This policy can protect you if the at-fault driver has no insurance or, in hit-and-run cases, if the driver remains unidentified. UM/UIM can pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage — MedPay can cover medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of who caused the accident. Unlike health insurance, MedPay doesn’t require a deductible and can pay for hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation costs, and other medical-related expenses.
- Collision Coverage — If your vehicle gets damaged in a hit-and-run, collision coverage can pay for repairs or replacement. This coverage typically requires a deductible.
Our Garden Grove hit-and-run accident attorneys can review your policy, determine which coverages apply, and handle every step of your claim. We can also investigate other potential sources of compensation, such as third-party liability claims, to help you pursue fair compensation that reflects your damages as permitted by California law.
Potential Compensation In A Hit-And-Run Accident Claim
Hit-and-run accidents can result in a wide range of injuries. Victims may suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord damage, whiplash, internal injuries, and severe lacerations. The extent and severity of these injuries play a major role in determining the amount of damages. Depending on specific circumstances, more severe injuries may justify higher compensation.
Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Garden Grove work to help you seek the following types of damages:
- Medical Expenses — Cover the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages & Reduced Earning Capacity — If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for lost wages. If your injuries cause long-term or permanent limitations that affect your ability to work, you may qualify for loss of earning capacity. This includes cases where you can no longer perform your job or must take a lower-paying position due to your injuries.
- Property Damage — Includes vehicle repairs or replacement, as well as reimbursement for any personal belongings damaged in the crash.
- Pain and Suffering — Provides compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and overall loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident.
If a hit-and-run results in a tragic loss of life, the victim’s surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. These damages help ease the financial and emotional burden caused by the sudden loss of a loved one. They include:
- Funeral and burial costs.
- Loss of financial support.
- Loss of companionship.
- Pain and suffering.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Accident
Knowing what steps to take after a hit-and-run can help protect your health and support your case. Here are some steps you can take following a hit-and-run accident:
- Your safety comes first. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries, and call 911 immediately for emergency assistance.
- Report the hit-and-run right away, providing as many details as possible about the fleeing vehicle, such as the color, make, model, license plate (if visible), and the direction it was traveling.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and debris. Look around for surveillance cameras that may have captured the incident.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, some injuries can take hours or days to appear. Seeing a doctor also ensures proper documentation of your injuries.
- Report the accident to your insurer. If the police can’t find the at-fault driver, you may still be able to seek damages through your insurance policy. When speaking with adjusters, be cautious and stick to the facts.
- Consult hit-and-run accident lawyers in Garden Grove. We can help uncover hidden evidence, track down potential sources of compensation, and challenge insurance companies that may not offer the full value of your claim.
Hit-And-Run Statistics
Hit-and-run accidents cause thousands of fatalities and injuries each year. In 2022 alone, 2,932 people lost their lives in crashes involving hit-and-run drivers, a 0.5% increase from the previous year. Pedestrians and cyclists are among the most vulnerable, making up a significant portion of these fatalities. Of the 7,522 pedestrian deaths, 25% were in hit-and-run crashes. Around 265 (or 24%) out of 1,105 bicyclist fatalities were due to hit-and-run collisions.
The problem extends to local communities, including Orange County, where there were 1,291 hit-and-run incidents in 2022. Garden Grove alone saw 58 fatal and injury-causing hit-and-run collisions.
Our Garden Grove lawyers assist hit-and-run accident victims and their families as they pursue compensation and address the consequences of the accident. Whether the driver is caught or remains unidentified, we will guide you through the claims process, from start to resolution.
Speak To Our Hit-And-Run Lawyers In Garden Grove
A hit-and-run driver may have vanished, but your right to pursue compensation doesn’t have to disappear with them. Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has helped hit-and-run victims identify potential avenues for compensation and work towards a fair resolution as allowed by the law.
Whether you’re at home or in the hospital, our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Garden Grove can meet you wherever it’s most convenient for you. We can also provide complimentary transportation, making it stress-free to get to your medical appointments or legal meetings. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a no-cost case evaluation or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
We provide our legal services in the following neighboring locations: Westminster, Stanton, Santa Ana, Fountain Valley, Anaheim, Orange, Cypress, Fullerton, Tustin, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Los Alamitos, La Palma, and Placentia.
