Atascadero Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Powerhouse Atascadero Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys Fighting For The Average Joe
Fleeing driver left you injured? Call (888) 488-1391 and let our Atascadero hit-and-run accident attorneys help you recover compensation. Arash Law has championed injured victims and their families throughout California in countless cases involving various types of accidents and injuries. Take advantage of our free consultations and discuss your case in a safe and reliable environment.
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident gets much worse when the other driver doesn’t stop, offer assistance, and take responsibility for their error. Many hit-and-run accident victims are not aware that, even in cases where the at-fault driver is not located, they can still seek compensation.
Handling a hit-and-run injury claim calls for in-depth legal knowledge and experience. With its long and successful track record built on meticulous preparation, extensive expertise, and compassionate representation, Arash Law can guide you through the legal process effectively. We have won over $750 million for clients in our years of service. If you got hurt or lost a loved one due to a hit-and-run accident, seek top-notch legal representation from our hit-and-run accident lawyers at zero upfront fees.
Why Hire Arash Law’s Atascadero Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys
Recovering compensation for a hit-and-run accident can be difficult. In a fault-based state like California, how are you supposed to hold the at-fault driver accountable for your damages if the authorities are unable to identify them? This problem is something we can help you with.
Here are some of the top reasons to hire our Atascadero hit-and-run lawyers:
- 98% Success Rate — Our attorneys have secured hundreds of millions in settlements and verdicts for injury victims.
- Decades of Experience — Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling hit-and-run cases, ensuring you get skilled representation backed by legal expertise.
- No Upfront Fees — You don’t have to worry about upfront attorney fees. We have a “no win, no fee” policy in place. Our lawyers don’t get paid unless they win your case.
- 24/7 Availability — Accidents don’t wait, and neither do we. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide the legal support you need.
- Personalized Attention — We treat every client with care, compassion, and respect, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our hit-and-run attorneys in Atascadero can carefully assess your case, represent you in negotiations with insurance providers, and make every effort to obtain a fair settlement.
Our Lawyers Win Big For Hit-And-Run Accident Victims
Results are important after a serious injury. Our lawyers have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injury victims. We won’t give up until you receive the compensation you need to move forward. Below are just a few of our remarkable case victories, proving that when you hire our Atascadero hit-and-run accident lawyers, you’re choosing legal advocates with a proven track record of success.
- $1,700,000 — Our client was a kind 79-year-old woman who was crossing a crosswalk when she was struck. Up until a few weeks prior to the trial, the defense attempted to blame her rather than take accountability! Our lawyers fought them and secured just compensation for our client.
- $1,000,000 — Our client, a loyal rideshare driver, was hurt in a hit-and-run. Our attorneys prepared the case for an arbitration trial. One week prior to the arbitration, the issue was finally settled for the maximum policy limits.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– ARASH KHORSANDI
How Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Can Help
It is illegal for a driver to flee the scene, whether the crash causes injuries or property damage. Those who do can face harsh penalties, including jail time and heavy fines. If you were a victim of a hit-and-run, you must report the accident to your insurance company. It’s also critical to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Here’s how our hit-and-run attorneys in Atascadero can help with your case:
- Work with law enforcement and witnesses to search for the negligent driver.
- Find the negligent driver and take legal action to recover damages.
- Gather crucial evidence to support your claim, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reports.
- File a claim with your insurance company for your medical bills, replacement or repair of your property, and other expenses.
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance providers to secure the maximum possible settlement.
- Take your case to court if necessary.
Insurance companies often try to lowball or deny claims. We fight tirelessly to ensure you get every dollar you deserve. Let our top-rated hit-and-run accident lawyers take the burden off your shoulders. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to get legal advice free of charge.
Why Hit-And-Run Accidents Happen
Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Atascadero have handled countless claims and are well aware that some drivers choose to flee instead of taking responsibility. While understanding their reasons can provide insight into hit-and-run accidents, nothing excuses a driver from abandoning an injured victim.
Here are some of the most common reasons drivers choose to leave the scene of an accident:
- Impaired Driving — Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol often flee to avoid DUI charges.
- Distracted Driving — Drivers who cause accidents due to distractions like texting may leave the scene to avoid responsibility.
- Reckless Driving — Drivers engaging in reckless behaviors such as speeding or aggressive driving may flee to avoid arrest and criminal charges.
- Lack of Insurance Or Valid License — Drivers without insurance or a valid license may leave the scene to avoid legal consequences.
- Panic/Fear — Even without other contributing factors, some drivers panic after an accident and flee due to fear, regardless of who is at fault.
- Unclear On Legal Obligations — Some drivers may be unaware of their legal obligations after an accident and mistakenly leave the scene.
- Belief That The Accident Is Minor — Drivers might leave if they believe the accident is minor and no one is seriously injured, not realizing the potential legal ramifications.
Imagine being injured in a car accident, only to discover the other driver has fled the scene. This situation is the reality for many hit-and-run victims. These actions are not only wrong; they’re serious crimes. If you’ve experienced a hit-and-run, seeking legal counsel from car accident lawyers is crucial. Whatever the reason, fleeing the scene after causing harm is illegal and unacceptable, with serious legal consequences.
Legal Ramifications Of Hit-And-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run has serious legal consequences, both criminal and civil. Criminally, a hit-and-run can be considered a felony, especially if the collision results in significant injuries or death. This crime is punishable by a fine and up to three years in state prison or up to four years if the accident results in death or serious harm.
The civil ramifications can be equally devastating for the victim. Beyond any criminal penalties, victims of hit-and-run accidents have the right to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver (if identified) to recover substantial damages. These damages can include compensation for often overwhelming medical expenses, lost wages (both current and future), pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, and other related losses. This civil component is crucial for victims seeking to rebuild their lives after a hit-and-run incident.
Do not hesitate to get in touch with our knowledgeable Atascadero hit-and-run accident attorneys if you were struck and injured by a driver who fled the scene immediately afterward. You have a better chance of getting the compensation you are due the sooner you work with our hit-and-run lawyers.
Hurt In
A Car Accident?
Proving Negligence In Your Hit-And-Run Claim
In a personal injury claim, the plaintiff or injured victim has the burden to prove the defendant’s or negligent party’s liability. Our Atascadero injury law firm can help you demonstrate the following elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — The plaintiff must first establish the existence of a duty of care. This is the duty that a party has under the law to prevent harm to others. Drivers, in particular, must exercise reasonable caution to avoid injuring other road users.
- Breach of Duty — A breach or violation of the duty of care happens when a driver fails to exercise the level of care that is expected in that particular situation and other similar circumstances. The driver leaving the scene after hitting someone constitutes a breach of duty.
- Causation — The plaintiff must then demonstrate that they were harmed as a direct result of the breach of duty. A causal relationship exists, for instance, between a driver hitting you and you sustaining head trauma.
- Damages — The last element of negligence plaintiffs need to prove is the actual damages they suffered as a result of the accident and their injuries. These injury-related damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In most cases, the driver who caused the collision that resulted in injury is the liable party. With the assistance of skilled Atascadero hit-and-run accident attorneys, you can build a compelling case that proves their liability and highlights your injuries and the effects of the collision.
Evidence To Strengthen Your Hit-And-Run Claim
You should notify the police right away after getting injured in an accident where the involved driver left the scene. Additionally, ask any witnesses who may be there to remain at the scene and speak with the authorities. Make sure to obtain their contact details.
The authorities will look into the crash to try to identify and locate the driver who fled the scene. Meanwhile, you can gather the following pieces of evidence, provided you’re still able to do so, to help them with their investigation.
- Testimonies of witnesses, first responders, and expert witnesses.
- Images and videos of the scene of the accident.
- Police report.
- Vehicle paint on nearby objects.
- Skid marks from the tires.
- Medical records and bills.
- Document showing lost wages.
- A journal of the recovery process.
Insurance Options For A Hit-And-Run Collision
One of the biggest concerns for hit-and-run accident victims is how to cover the costs when the at-fault driver disappears. In a fault state like California, this could lead to confusion regarding where to look for financial assistance. There are several options available.
Our hit-and-run lawyer can submit a claim against the at-fault motorist if they are apprehended. We can file a claim against their insurance policy if they have one. However, it’s possible that some drivers lack insurance, which leads many of them to flee the scene of an accident in the first place. In this case, we can go to court to seek a judgment that could be made against their assets. However, if the driver has few or no assets, securing compensation may be difficult, even with a judgment in your favor.
Your other option is to file a claim against your insurance policy under your uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, your UIM coverage may help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage, depending on your policy limits. While insurance companies are required to offer this coverage to policyholders, you may have declined it. If you don’t have it, check if you have collision and comprehensive coverage, as these may help cover some damages.
Since insurance companies often try to limit payouts, having hit-and-run accident lawyers in Atascadero on your side is crucial to ensuring you receive fair compensation. Our lawyers can also help you explore all available compensation options and fight for the maximum amount possible.
Injuries And Recoverable Damages After A Hit-And-Run
Injuries from car crashes vary in type and severity. When the at-fault driver provides no assistance to the victims and flees the scene, the victim’s injuries may get worse. It may take time before a witness, or someone else reports the crash and calls 911 for medical attention.
Our skilled Atascadero hit-and-run attorneys fight for justice for those who have suffered injuries such as:
- Spine injuries
- Paralysis
- Head and brain injuries
- Bone fractures
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Amputation
- Disfigurement
The goal of financial compensation is to make you whole again by covering both tangible financial losses (economic damages) and intangible losses (non-economic damages). In some cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish gross negligence or intentional misconduct and discourage others from doing the same.
If you’re a hit-and-run accident victim, our injury lawyers can help you recover compensation for the following damages and more:
- Medical expenses for current and future needs.
- Lost wages and future reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Repair or replacement cost for damaged property.
- Other out-of-pocket expenses.
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Accident
If a driver flees the scene after causing an accident, do not attempt to chase them. Your safety comes first. Instead, focus on protecting yourself, gathering evidence, and taking steps that can help authorities locate the driver while strengthening your claim for compensation. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Atascadero suggest you do the following:- Gather Information At The Accident Scene — Take photos or videos with your phone if you can. If possible, note key details about the fleeing vehicle, including:
- Make, model, and color of the car.
- Any visible damage.
- License plate number (even a partial plate).
- The direction in which the car fled.
- Call The Authorities Immediately — An official record of the accident created by the police can also be helpful in your claim. You’ll need this paperwork if you ever need to make a claim.
- Obtain The Contact Details Of Any Potential Witnesses — Witnesses may play an important role in supporting your version of events and strengthening your claim.
- Get Emergency Medical Treatment — Even if you feel fine, see a doctor immediately. Your doctor will create a record of your injuries, which can bolster your claim later on. You must follow your doctor’s recommended course of treatment as you recover.
- Inform Your Insurance Provider And Contact A Lawyer — Consult with the best hit-and-run attorneys in Atascadero about your case before giving a recorded statement or agreeing to a settlement. Stick to the facts when speaking with your insurer.
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
Filing A Claim For Compensation
If the driver is nowhere to be found, getting compensated for a hit-and-run can be challenging, even if your vehicle was clearly damaged and you sustained real injuries. However, there are several options you and your hit-and-run accident lawyer in Atascadero can take to recover damages:
- File A Claim Through Your Insurance Company — Your insurer may be required to fund all or a portion of your damages if you have uninsured motorist coverage. If not, some of your expenses can still be covered by your collision coverage.
- Explore MedPay Coverage — The costs of medical care could be partially or completely covered by your MedPay add-on if you were injured.
- Look Into Third-Party Liability — You may be able to hold a third party, such as a private company, county or local government, or another organization, liable for your injuries if external circumstances played a role in your accident.
Even if you have the right insurance coverage, securing fair compensation after a hit-and-run can still be an uphill battle. Why? Insurance companies prioritize their profits over your well-being. Without a known at-fault driver, they may be even less willing to offer a fair settlement. Experienced Atascadero hit-and-run accident attorneys can gather the strongest evidence to support your claim and negotiate aggressively with insurance providers.
Time Limits For Filing Hit-And-Run Accident Claims In California
Hit-and-run accidents are challenging, especially if the at-fault driver is unidentified. In California, it’s important to know the time limits for filing claims. You still need to meet deadlines for compensation through your applicable insurance coverage.
The general rule is that the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver in California is two years from the date of the accident. Since a hit-and-run involving an unidentified driver puts you in the position of suing an unknown person, this two-year limit generally applies to UM or other insurance claims as well.
This means you must either identify the at-fault driver and sue them within two years or, more commonly in hit-and-run cases, file a “John Doe” lawsuit against the unknown driver within that timeframe. A “John Doe” lawsuit allows you to preserve your right to sue, and if you later identify the driver, you can amend the lawsuit to name them specifically.
It’s important to note that your specific insurance policy may have its own deadlines for notifying your insurer and filing a claim, which could be shorter than the two-year statute of limitations. Review your policy promptly after a hit-and-run to understand these requirements. Failing to notify your insurer on time could affect your ability to recover compensation, even if you are within the limit.
Additionally, certain situations, like if the injured person is a minor or mentally incapacitated, can pause the statute of limitations. These exceptions are complex.
The most important advice: Do not wait. Contact a qualified Atascadero hit-and-run attorney immediately after an accident. They can inform you about specific deadlines for your insurance and California law, assist with filing a “John Doe” lawsuit, and help protect your right to compensation. Prompt action is crucial, as missing deadlines may prevent you from recovering damages.
Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics
Traffic crashes involving hit-and-run drivers resulted in 2,932 fatalities in 2022, up 0.5% from 2,917 in 2021. A total of 1,910 (25%) of the 7,522 pedestrian deaths and 265 (24%) of the 1,105 pedal cyclist deaths were caused by hit-and-run incidents. This represents an increase of 4.3% (79 more deaths) in pedestrian hit-and-run deaths and 18% (40 more deaths) in pedal cyclist hit-and-run deaths compared to 2021. Meanwhile, according to the Office of Traffic Safety, Atascadero saw four fatal & injury hit-and-run crashes in 2022.
Our Atascadero lawyers fight for hit-and-run accident victims with no upfront fees. You only pay if we win. Call (888) 488-1391 today for a free case review. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.
Questions Victims Frequently Ask Our Atascadero Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys (FAQs)
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident can be a terrifying and disorienting experience. You’re likely left with injuries, vehicle damage, and a sense of injustice, all while wondering what steps to take next. To help you navigate this challenging time, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions our Atascadero hit-and-run accident attorneys receive.
How Much Will It Cost To Hire Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers?
Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Atascadero work on a “no win, no fee” basis. This means we don’t charge anything unless we win for you. Depending on the circumstances of your case, legal fees range from 33 to 40% of the recovered amount.
Do I Need Atascadero Hit-And-Run Attorneys After An Accident?
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer for my claim?” Not every accident requires legal representation. However, if you’ve suffered serious injuries, hiring hit-and-run accident attorneys in Atascadero can greatly improve your chances of securing full and fair compensation.
How Much Is My Hit-And-Run Case Worth?
Since every case is different, it’s difficult to estimate the value of your hit-and-run claim in California without knowing the circumstances of the case. The compensation amount can vary significantly. The degree of property damage, the severity of the injuries received, and the effect on your day-to-day life are a few factors that can affect how much a claim is worth.
To maximize your compensation, work with our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Atascadero. We have a proven track record of securing maximum policy limits, even in complex cases.
Do I Have To Wait For A Hit-And-Run Criminal Trial Before I Can Sue A Hit-And-Run Driver?
No. Criminal proceedings and civil lawsuits are separate legal matters. You can pursue a civil claim for your injuries and damages regardless of the status of any criminal investigation or trial. In fact, it’s often advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney in Atascadero as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident to protect your rights and begin building your civil case. While a successful criminal prosecution can sometimes be helpful to a civil case, it is not required. You can file an insurance claim immediately, especially if you have uninsured motorist coverage. This process can proceed even if a suspect has not been identified or apprehended.
Will A Hit-And-Run Claim Raise My Insurance Rates?
California law generally protects you from rate increases when you file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is specifically designed for situations where the at-fault driver is uninsured or, as in a hit-and-run, is unidentified. So, using your UM coverage to cover your damages shouldn’t directly lead to a rate hike.
However, if you also use your collision coverage to repair your vehicle, you could see an increase in your premiums. This is because collision coverage is a first-party claim, meaning you’re claiming from your own insurer regardless of fault. Insurers sometimes view these claims as an increased risk.
Furthermore, even with a UM claim, if there’s any dispute about who was at fault for the accident, your insurer might adjust your premiums. It’s crucial to clearly establish that you were the victim and not at fault in the hit-and-run.
While California law offers some protection for UM claimants, it’s not absolute. Other factors can also influence your insurance rates. It’s always advisable to consult with your insurance agent and a qualified hit-and-run attorney in Atascadero to understand the potential impact of a hit-and-run claim on your specific policy.
Call The Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys Atascadero Turns To!
Hiring our Atascadero hit-and-run accident lawyers can make all the difference when pursuing compensation for your injuries and damages. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, Arash Law will fight for your rights and interests, even if the at-fault driver remains unknown.
Call (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case” form to schedule a free, no-obligation case review with our industry-recognized team of attorneys as soon as possible. Our track record of winning over $750 million for our clients is a testament to the results we can deliver for you.
Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Atascadero also serve nearby cities and communities, including Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Arroyo Grande, Santa Maria, Avenal, Coalinga, King City, Lompoc, Greenfield, Taft, Soledad, Lemoore, Wasco, Paso Robles, Avila Beach, Cambria, and Santa Margarita.
