Compton Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
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Our Compton Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Offer Practical Legal Help After An Accident
Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims facing serious injuries, financial uncertainty, and emotional distress. If you or someone you know was injured or killed in such an incident, our Compton hit-and-run accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and legal options. We can assist you in pursuing compensation for your medical expenses and related losses. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
We understand the devastating impact a hit-and-run accident can have on your life. Medical bills and lost wages can add up quickly, which can make recovery more difficult. Our dedicated legal team will thoroughly investigate your case, work with authorities to identify the responsible party, and explore potential avenues for compensation.
Our hit-and-run accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t be charged any attorney’s fees upfront unless compensation is obtained. Please note that case-related costs may still apply.
Why Hire Arash Law’s Compton Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
Arash Law is a California-based personal injury firm that represents individuals injured in hit-and-run accidents. If you or a loved one has been affected by such an incident, our legal team can assist with evaluating the facts of your case, preparing claims, and pursuing compensation through available legal channels. We guide clients through the process, from initial consultation through resolution.
Here are a few key aspects of our service:
- Hit-and-Run Case Experience — Our lawyers have handled a range of personal injury cases, including those involving hit-and-run accidents. This includes managing communications with insurance providers, filing claims, and assisting in cases where the responsible driver is unknown.
- Legal Process Support — We help clients understand their rights, meet required deadlines, and submit the necessary documentation to support their claim. This includes reviewing available insurance policies and exploring alternative avenues for financial recovery.
- Language Support — We provide access to interpreters in multiple languages upon request. If language is a concern, we can arrange for a translator to assist you in your preferred language so that you can clearly understand each step of the legal process.
If you would like to speak with a member of our legal team, call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our team responds to inquiries as promptly as possible and can arrange a time and location to discuss your case in detail.
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 You
Hit-and-run accidents present unique challenges that can be difficult to manage without legal guidance. When the at-fault driver leaves the scene and cannot be immediately identified, it can complicate the claims process and limit access to critical information. Victims are often left facing medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about how to pursue damages. In these situations, many begin to ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?”
Hit-and-run accident lawyers in our Compton injury law firm can help you by:
- Advising you on how to communicate with insurers to avoid statements that could affect your claim.
- Assisting you in accessing proper medical care.
- Handling communications and negotiations with insurance companies.
- Coordinating with law enforcement to review evidence and identify liable parties.
- Preparing and submitting documentation to support a claim for compensation.
- Reviewing applicable insurance coverage, including uninsured motorist policies.
- Evaluating your case thoroughly to pursue appropriate compensation.
Our experienced Compton hit-and-run accident attorneys can also file claims on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we manage the legal process. We are dedicated to providing clear legal guidance, protecting your rights, and pursuing available avenues for compensation under California law.
California Hit-And-Run Laws
California law classifies hit-and-run accidents as infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies, with felony charges applying when the accident results in injury or death. These classifications and the associated penalties (fines, license suspension, jail time) fall under the criminal aspect of hit-and-run law, focusing on punishing the driver for leaving the scene.
Separate from the criminal case, victims of hit-and-run accidents may have the right to pursue financial compensation through a civil claim. This aspect of the law focuses on recovering losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related damages. Even if the driver who fled the scene remains unidentified or unprosecuted, you can still pursue a civil claim against them (or their insurance, if you later identify them) for damages.
If the at-fault driver remains unknown, you may still be able to seek compensation through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage or other applicable insurance policies. UM coverage protects you when you suffer injuries from a driver who flees the scene or is otherwise uninsured.
Our Compton hit-and-run accident lawyers can assist you by investigating the accident, identifying potential witnesses, working with qualified professionals, and filing a claim against the at-fault driver (if identified) or applicable insurance providers. To learn more about how the law applies to your situation, call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a consultation.
Why Drivers Flee The Scene Of An Accident
One minute, you’re driving; the next, you’re reeling from the force of a collision. Moments later, you realize the driver who caused the accident has taken off and is nowhere to be found.
While every case is different, here are common reasons drivers flee instead of facing the consequences:
- Unaware of the Collision — A driver might claim they didn’t realize they caused an accident. However, even a seemingly minor impact can cause serious injuries.
- Belief That There Are No Witnesses — A driver might flee, thinking no one saw them. However, witnesses, even seemingly uninvolved bystanders, can provide crucial testimony. Our investigators can help locate them.
- Lack of Insurance — Driving without insurance is a frequent reason for hit-and-runs. This can complicate your case, but we can explore options like uninsured motorist coverage.
- Panic — A driver might panic and flee. While this does not excuse leaving the scene, their emotional state may be considered in legal proceedings.
- Time Constraints — Being in a hurry is not a legal justification for fleeing the scene or failing to fulfill legal obligations.
- License Issues — Driving with a restricted, suspended, or revoked license is a serious offense and an indication of negligence, which can be vital to your case.
- Impairment — Driving under the influence is a major factor in many hit-and-runs, and evidence of impairment can support your claim.
- Medical Emergency — Although a driver may leave to seek emergency care, they are legally required to return or notify authorities. Failure to do so can lead to legal consequences.
Regardless of the reason, hit-and-runs often leave victims to deal with medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. Our Compton hit-and-run lawyers can help clarify your options and assist you in pursuing compensation based on the circumstances of your case.
Hurt In
A Car Accident?
How Our Lawyers Establish Negligence In Hit-And-Run Accident Cases
In a hit-and-run accident, the act of leaving the scene is a violation of California law, establishing negligence per se. This means the driver’s failure to stop and meet their legal obligations supports a presumption of negligence. This legal principle is an important factor in hit-and-run cases.
However, to pursue compensation, you must demonstrate the following elements:
- Duty of Care — The driver owed a duty to operate the vehicle safely and obey traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty — The driver breached that duty by causing the collision and then fleeing the scene.
- Causation — The collision directly caused the victim’s injuries and losses.
- Damages — The full extent of the victim’s losses, such as medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related damages, must be properly documented.
Our Compton hit-and-run accident lawyers thoroughly investigate the accident to establish liability and help document your losses. We also explore potential sources of compensation, including relevant insurance policies.
Evidence That Can Help Support A Hit-And-Run Accident Case
In a hit-and-run case, evidence is crucial in determining what happened, who was responsible, and the extent of the damages. Unlike typical car accidents, where both parties exchange information, hit-and-run victims rely on available proof to support their claims. Insurance companies and courts require strong documentation to evaluate and compensate for losses. Having the right evidence can help in building your case. These pieces of evidence include:
- Accident Scene Photos and Videos — Clear images of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, and road conditions can help recreate the crash and establish fault.
- Details of the Fleeing Vehicle — The vehicle’s make and model, color, and even a partial license plate number can assist authorities in identifying the driver.
- Description of the Driver — Key characteristics like age, gender, hair color, or unique features can provide valuable identification details.
- Surveillance Footage — Security cameras from traffic lights, businesses, or nearby residences may have recorded the incident, offering crucial visual proof.
- Eyewitness Statements — Testimonies from bystanders who saw the accident can help validate your account and provide additional information about the hit-and-run driver.
- Accident Reconstruction Reports — Qualified consultants analyze impact points, skid marks, and vehicle damage to determine how the crash occurred and who was at fault.
- Medical Records and Expenses — Hospital reports, treatment plans, and medical bills document the severity of your injuries and the cost of necessary care.
- Proof of Lost Wages — Pay stubs, employer statements, or tax records confirm any income lost due to injuries and time off work.
Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Compton gather, analyze, and organize crucial evidence to build a well-documented case. They may collaborate with qualified professionals to understand the nature and full extent of your injuries and assist in estimating the value of all your losses.
Compensation Available In A Hit-And-Run Accident Case
The severity of your injuries plays a significant role in determining the compensation you may be able to pursue after a hit-and-run accident. While catastrophic injuries may result in substantial payouts, even non-life-threatening injuries can justify a personal injury claim if they have a lasting impact on your life. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of an accident can contribute to the value of your case.
Hit-and-run victims may sustain a variety of injuries, including:
- Knee and hip injuries
- Neck and shoulder injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Loss of limbs
- Whiplash
- Deep puncture wounds
- Internal damage
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe road rash
In California, there is no cap on the amount of damages you can pursue in a hit-and-run accident case. It means injured victims can pursue full compensation for their losses, including economic and non-economic damages. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to include any of the following in your claim:
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs.
- Medical expenses, including ongoing care and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Emotional distress and mental anguish.
- Permanent disfigurement or scarring.
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to disability or trauma.
- Compensation for wrongful death if you lost a loved one.
Calculating damages can be complex, especially when dealing with uninsured motorist claims or MedPay coverage limitations. Our experienced Compton hit-and-run accident attorneys can evaluate your losses and gather relevant documentation to help present a clear and well-supported claim.
Other Options When Pursuing Hit-And-Run Compensation
Hit-and-run accident victims can pursue other options for compensation despite the at-fault driver remaining unidentified. Here are some examples:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage — This coverage can provide financial relief when the at-fault driver is uninsured, underinsured, or unidentified, such as in a hit-and-run accident. UM/UIM insurance can cover:
- Bodily Injury Damages — Compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
- Property Damage — Covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it gets damaged in the accident.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage — This optional policy add-on can cover medical expenses regardless of who was at fault. It can assist with ambulance fees, hospital visits, and ongoing treatment costs.
- Collision Coverage — If you have collision insurance, it may help pay for vehicle repairs after a hit-and-run, even if the at-fault driver is never found. You can use this to get your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible.
Our Compton hit-and-run lawyers can assist you in understanding which insurance coverage applies to your situation, guide you through filing claims, and handle communication with insurers. They can review settlement offers and work to pursue the compensation you may need to help you manage the financial impact of the accident.
Steps To Take After A Hit-And-Run Accident
After a hit-and-run, you may feel helpless, not knowing who to hold accountable or how to seek compensation for your injuries. However, the steps you take immediately after the incident can help protect your rights and claim. Here are recommended steps after a hit-and-run accident:
- Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and wait for help to arrive.
- Report the accident to the police. A police report can serve as evidence for your case and may assist in tracking down the at-fault driver. Request a copy for your records.
- Write down everything you remember about the other vehicle, such as the color, make and model, and license plate number. Also, note the location, time, weather conditions, and direction in which the other driver fled.
- Take a picture of the accident scene, damage to your vehicle, and any relevant road conditions. These photos can provide crucial evidence to support your claim.
- If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can help establish what happened and identify the driver.
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and initiate the claims process.
- Report the accident to the DMV if it results in injury or property damage exceeding $1,000. Complete their SR-1 form and send it to the DMV within 10 days.
- Call a Compton hit-and-run accident lawyer. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and help you seek compensation for damages. They can handle the legal matters of your case, so you can focus on healing.
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
Time Limits For Filing A Hit-and-Run Accident Lawsuit
In California, there are strict time limits, also known as the statute of limitations, for pursuing compensation. Generally, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Since hit-and-run cases often involve an unidentified driver, this same deadline typically applies to UM claims as well.
If the at-fault driver in your hit-and-run is unknown, you can file a “John Doe lawsuit” within the two-year period. This legal action preserves your right to file a case and allows you to amend the lawsuit later if authorities identify the driver.
However, insurance claim deadlines are typically much shorter than the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. Notify your insurance company of an accident and file a claim within the timeframe specified in your policy. Missing these deadlines may result in the denial of coverage, even if you are still within the timeframe for filing a lawsuit.
Certain exceptions may shorten or extend the time limit, such as cases involving government entities, minors, or individuals with mental incapacities. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Compton can help you understand the applicable deadline in your case and file the necessary paperwork within the required timeframe.
Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,932 people lost their lives in traffic crashes involving hit-and-run drivers in 2022, marking a 0.5% increase from the 2,917 fatalities recorded in 2021.
Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable in these incidents. Traffic accident data in 2022 show the following:
- Out of 7,522 pedestrian fatalities, 1,910 pedestrians (25%) were involved in hit-and-run crashes, reflecting a 4.3% increase (79 more fatalities) compared to the previous year.
- Approximately 265 pedal cyclists (24% of 1,105 cycling-related deaths) were involved in hit-and-run accidents, marking an 18% increase (40 more fatalities) from 2021.
Hit-and-run accidents continue to be a significant problem on U.S. roadways, often leading to severe injuries and fatalities. If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run crash, our Compton hit-and-run accident lawyers offer legal guidance and support. Even if the at-fault driver remains a “John Doe,” we can work to explore available options for compensation.
Questions Clients Frequently Ask Our Compton Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys (FAQs)
Below are the answers to the questions people frequently ask about hit-and-run accidents and legal representation. If you have any additional questions, call us at (888) 488-1391.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lawyer For A Hit-And-Run Accident Case?
Many hit-and-run lawyers, including those at Arash Law, work on a contingency basis. This means that you won’t be charged any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. Please note that you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, such as court fees or expert witness costs.
If you decide to work with us, our Compton hit-and-run lawyers will explain the fee structure and any potential costs during your initial consultation.
How Long Does It Typically Take To Settle A Hit-And-Run Accident Case?
The time it takes to settle a hit-and-run accident case varies based on several factors, including the complexity of the investigation and the severity of your injuries. Some cases resolve within a few months if law enforcement can identify the at-fault driver quickly. However, more complex claims may take longer, especially if litigation becomes necessary.
Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Compton can help manage critical deadlines, expedite evidence gathering, and handle negotiations with insurance companies to move your case forward as efficiently as possible.
What If The Insurance Company Denies My Hit-And-Run Claim?
If your insurance company denies your hit-and-run claim, a Compton hit-and-run accident lawyer can review the reasons for denial and help challenge the decision. Common reasons for denial include insufficient evidence, policy exclusions, or disputes over liability.
A lawyer can assist by gathering additional evidence, consulting experts, and preparing a detailed response to support your claim. If negotiations fail, they can also advise on pursuing legal action to seek compensation through the courts.
How Are Hit-And-Run Accidents Investigated?
If the crash results in serious injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage, law enforcement will conduct investigations. They may review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and attempt to identify the driver.
Less severe accidents may not receive a police investigation, but still allow victims to pursue civil claims. Our hit-and-run attorneys may work closely with investigators to collect evidence and identify liable parties.
Do I Have To Wait For The Criminal Trial To Finish Before Suing A Hit-And-Run Driver?
No. Criminal and civil cases operate independently. You can file a civil claim for compensation while a criminal investigation or trial is ongoing. Our hit-and-run lawyers in Compton can help gather necessary evidence, protect your legal rights, and assist in filing claims, including uninsured motorist claims if applicable. Although a criminal conviction can support your civil case, it is not required to pursue compensation.
Can A Passenger Be Held Liable For A Hit-And-Run?
A passenger may be held liable in a hit-and-run personal injury case under certain circumstances. If they encouraged the driver to flee, assisted in planning the escape, or played a role in the events leading up to the accident, they could be considered partially responsible for the victim’s damages. Liability in these cases is highly fact-dependent, meaning the specific details of their involvement will determine whether they can be pursued for compensation.
Our Compton hit-and-run lawyer can thoroughly investigate the passenger’s role by gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. They can assess who may be liable for damages. Additionally, our lawyers can help pursue compensation from the responsible parties and protect your legal rights throughout the process.
Reach Out To Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers In Compton
After a hit-and-run accident, dealing with medical bills, insurance companies, and lost income can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you’re still trying to recover. Without legal guidance, it’s easy to miss important deadlines, misunderstand your rights, or accept low settlement offers. That’s where experienced Compton hit-and-run accident lawyers can make a difference.
At Arash Law, our team helps victims navigate the complex legal process, gather evidence, and communicate with insurers. With professional legal support, you can focus on healing while we work to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation for your losses.
Aside from hit-and-run cases, we also handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, truck collisions, dog bites, workers’ compensation claims, and more. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation initial consultation.
We also serve clients in neighboring locations, such as Bellflower, Carson, Downey, Gardena, Hawthorne, Long Beach, Lynwood, Paramount, and South Gate.
