Eastvale Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
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Eastvale Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Who Advocate For Victims’ Legal Rights After An Injury
As an established personal injury law firm in California, Arash Law advocates for the rights of injured victims. Being in a vehicle collision is traumatic enough, but being abandoned by the driver who injured you makes the situation even more unbearable. Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers are committed to helping victims understand their rights. If you’ve been hit by a driver who left the scene, call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
In Eastvale, like everywhere else in California, drivers are legally required to stay at the scene after a collision. Those involved must exchange contact and insurance information and notify the authorities to ensure proper handling of the situation. Unfortunately, some at-fault drivers choose to flee, leaving victims injured and unsupported — a clear violation of their legal and moral responsibilities.
By running away, the at-fault driver is not just leaving the injured victim vulnerable but also attempting to escape their responsibility to cover the damages they caused. Our lawyers are here to advocate for your rights and explore different avenues for compensation.
Work With Seasoned Eastvale Hit-And-Run Lawyers At Arash Law
Getting injured in a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling hopeless, especially when the driver remains at large. However, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers will work diligently to pursue compensation you may be entitled to under the law.
Here’s why choosing us can be beneficial for your case:
- We work diligently to pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
- We prioritize your needs and work closely with you throughout the legal process.
- We have the resources and skills to handle even complex cases.
- We offer free, no-obligation preliminary consultations to discuss your case.
Contact us to schedule a free case review.
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 Attorneys Can Help
Hit-and-run victims in Eastvale face unique and often greater challenges compared to people involved in car accidents. Pursuing a claim can be especially difficult when the responsible driver has fled the scene and remains unidentified. Here’s how our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers can help:
- Investigating the Accident — We can collaborate with investigators and subject matter experts to thoroughly examine your case. We assess your case to determine the cause of your accident and, if possible, identify the driver responsible.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies — Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you’re injured. Our skilled attorneys can handle all communications and negotiations to help you pursue compensation to cover your damages.
- Filing a Lawsuit — If pursuing a lawsuit becomes necessary, our attorneys will guide you through every step of the legal process. Our experienced team will guide you through the legal process as we prepare every case for potential litigation.
California Hit-And-Run Laws And Victims’ Rights
A hit-and-run occurs when the driver responsible for a collision flees the scene instead of stopping to assist or cooperate with the other parties involved. While car accidents are already serious and potentially life-altering events, the situation becomes even more severe when a driver attempts to evade responsibility.
With the serious risks involved in these types of accidents, California has enforced statutes to protect victims. The California Vehicle Code specifically states:
a) The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person other than himself or herself or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident and shall fulfill the requirements of Sections 20003 and 20004.
To meet these requirements, the driver must have the following:
- Name, current address, driver’s license, or any form of identification.
- Registration number of the vehicle.
- Names and current addresses of the occupants, if there are any.
The driver must also give reasonable assistance to any injured parties involved. The CVC further states that the driver must report the accident to the nearest California Highway Patrol office or any other police authority if the victim dies and no authorities are present at the scene.
Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers can help if you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident and would like to understand your options. You can fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form to schedule a free case evaluation.
Causes Of Hit-And-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents often result in severe injuries, leaving victims in a vulnerable and sometimes life-threatening situation without immediate help. Why do some drivers flee the scene after causing an accident? Some drivers try to escape the scene for the following reasons:
- Driving Under the Influence — When drivers are drunk or drugged, they may know that their impairment makes them culpable for the accident. Rather than face the consequences of their actions, some of them choose to drive away.
- Suspended or Invalid Driver’s License — Some drivers may think that they will get into more trouble by carrying an invalid or suspended driver’s license and causing an accident.
- Driving Without Insurance — Uninsured drivers often lack the resources to cover damages or injuries they cause. Instead of taking responsibility, they may flee the scene to avoid financial liability.
- Running From an Arrest Warrant or Is on Probation — Motorists who have warrants of arrest or are on probation may run away because the incident could eventually flag them to the authorities.
- Falling Asleep Behind the Wheel — Drowsy drivers can cause accidents. Some may flee to avoid being held accountable for their negligence.
- Not Realizing They Caused an Accident — In rare cases, drivers may not realize they’ve struck a pedestrian, especially if the impact is subtle. However, this cluelessness does not absolve them of their obligation to the victim.
Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers can assist you in pursuing accountability from potentially liable parties.
Hurt in a Hit-And-Run Accident?
Compensation You May Pursue For Injuries In Hit-and-Run Accidents
The damages in a hit-and-run accident case are often similar to those in other motor vehicle accidents. However, the severity of the injuries can significantly impact the compensation a victim may pursue, particularly when extensive medical treatments, such as orthopedic therapy, chiropractic care, or surgery, are required. Damages are generally divided into two categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are tangible financial losses. They include:
- Ongoing medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
On top of payment related to injuries, injured victims can also file a claim for property damage. Meanwhile, non-economic damages refer to the subjective damages that the injured victims may have suffered. Examples include:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
The type and severity of injuries sustained play a crucial role in determining the value of a case, as they directly affect medical costs and overall damages. Common injuries suffered by hit-and-run victims include:
- Back injuries
- Whiplash
- Cuts and lacerations
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head, neck, and shoulder injuries
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
Pedestrians and bicyclists often sustain more severe injuries than motorists or passengers due to their lack of protection. When drivers flee the scene, they leave these vulnerable individuals at risk of further harm from passing vehicles.
Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident attorneys have decades of combined experience with various types of personal injury claims. Speak with our car accident lawyers handling hit-and-run cases in Eastvale in a free initial consultation.
Insurance Claims For Hit-And-Run Accident Victims
Some victims of hit-and-run accidents may feel hopeless that they won’t receive compensation for the losses they incurred. However, there may be other ways to pursue damages. Below are common scenarios of hit-and-run accidents and how injured victims may be able to recover their losses:
- When the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Not Identified — In some cases, authorities may fail to identify the responsible driver. Injured victims may still be able to seek compensation through their car insurance policy, which would fall under their uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. In cases like this, the unidentified driver automatically falls under the uninsured driver coverage. However, it’s important to note that UM coverage is an optional add-on to standard car insurance coverage policies.
- When the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Arrested — If the responsible driver is caught, victims or their families can pursue compensation directly from the at-fault driver. This may involve filing an injury claim or wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver.
- When There Are Other Negligent Parties Involved — In some cases, other parties may also bear responsibility for the accident. Examples include other negligent drivers, vehicle owners, or even entities responsible for maintaining road safety. In certain instances, passengers of hit-and-run vehicles might also face liability if they encouraged the drivers to escape the scene. If they participate in the drivers’ negligent actions, they could also be held responsible. Injured victims can file claims against these parties to seek compensation they may be entitled to under California law.
Other Insurance Coverage For Hit-And-Runs
Even if the at-fault driver in a hit-and-run accident cannot be identified or held liable, you may still have other avenues to pursue damages. Here are some of them:
- MedPay or Medical Pay Benefits — This can help cover immediate medical expenses regardless of who is at fault for the accident. The minimum coverage limit typically starts at $1,000 per injured victim, but higher coverage limits are available.
- Collision Coverage — This optional add-on covers unintentional damage to your car, regardless of fault. Coverage usually depends on the market value of your vehicle.
Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers can help you explore available options for compensation, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the collision. We can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and present evidence to back your claim.
Things To Do If You Have Been Injured In A Hit-And-Run
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your rights and increase the chances of identifying and holding the responsible party accountable. Consider these steps:
- Immediately Call the Police — Report the accident to law enforcement as soon as possible. The police can also gather important details that may help identify the responsible party. A police report also serves as essential documentation for your case.
- Collect Pieces of Evidence at the Scene — If you’re able to, take photos or videos of your injuries, vehicle damage, and any other physical evidence at the scene. This could include tire marks, debris, or fragments from the hit-and-run driver’s vehicle. These details could prove crucial in identifying the driver later.
- Gather Contact Information of Witnesses — Obtain the contact information of witnesses from the accident scene, if there are any. They may be able to help identify the hit-and-run driver or the vehicle involved.
- Seek Medical Attention ASAP — Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment allows you to receive proper care and creates a medical record linking your injuries to the accident. This documentation can also be vital evidence in your case.
- Report the Incident to Your Insurance Company — Contact your insurer. Your insurance may cover the damages you suffered in the accident.
- Consult With Eastvale Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers — Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident attorneys can help you understand your rights. They can also guide you through the claims process and explain other avenues for compensation.
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
Deadlines For Filing Personal Injury Claims In California
Injured victims have two years from the date of the accident to file for a civil lawsuit. Several factors may affect this deadline. For example, the statute of limitations may be paused or tolled for victims who are minors or legally incapacitated at the time of the accident.
Some conditions lengthen or shorten this deadline, and missing the statute of limitations can result in losing your right to pursue compensation entirely. Seek guidance from our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Eastvale to identify what time limits may apply to your case. They can assess your situation and help you track these deadlines.
Hit-And-Run Statistics
In 2022, there were 2,932 fatalities in traffic accidents involving hit-and-run drivers, according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report. The same report also stated the following:
- About 25% of pedestrian fatalities in 2022 involved hit-and-runs. There were a total of 7,522 pedestrian deaths, and 1,910 of them were victims of hit-and-run crashes.
- Approximately 24% of cyclist fatalities in 2022 involved hit-and-run accidents. Among the 1,105 cyclists who died, 265 were hit-and-run victims.
The number of fatal hit-and-run crashes increased by 0.5% compared to the previous year. Hit-and-run pedestrian deaths increased by 79, or 4.3%, while pedal cyclist deaths rose by 40, or 18%.
These alarming statistics highlight the growing issue of hit-and-run incidents, particularly involving vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists. Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Eastvale are dedicated to advocating for the rights of injured victims and helping them pursue the monetary recovery that reflects their injuries and other losses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If The Police Catch The Driver?
Authorities will notify the injured victims when they arrest the hit-and-run driver. Once the driver is identified, you can file a personal injury claim against their insurance for compensation. If the driver lacks insurance or sufficient coverage, you may seek compensation through your own insurance, depending on your policy. Our Eastvale lawyers, who are experienced in handling hit-and-run accident claims, can help you with this process.
Do I Have To Wait For A Hit-And-Run Criminal Trial Before I Can Sue A Hit-And-Run Driver?
No, you don’t have to wait to seek compensation from the at-fault party. Criminal proceedings and civil injury lawsuits are separate processes, and they can occur independently. You have the right to file a civil lawsuit as soon as possible, regardless of whether a criminal trial is underway. In fact, you can pursue a civil claim and seek compensation for your injuries even while the criminal investigation or trial is pending.
If you’ve been a victim of a hit-and-run accident, contact our Eastvale hit-and-run accident attorneys for a free case review, and let us help you explore available legal options for your case.
How Long Will My Hit-And-Run Case Take?
The duration of a hit-and-run case can vary significantly depending on the specifics of the incident. The timeline largely depends on the progress of the investigation, including how quickly the authorities are able to gather evidence and identify the responsible party. On average, it may take several months to investigate a case, especially if identifying the at-fault driver is challenging.
Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Eastvale can assist with the investigation. We can work with law enforcement and accident experts to gather evidence and determine the cause of your accident.
How Much Is The Average Compensation For Hit-And-Run Victims?
The value of a hit-and-run claim depends on several factors. The severity of your injuries, property damage, and other losses plays a significant role in determining the final settlement.
Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers can assess your case and evaluate the potential value of your claim. We will consider your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any long-term effects of the accident. Moreover, we will consider any impact on your ability to work, participate in daily activities, and your overall quality of life.
Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer After A Hit-And-Run Accident?
The answer depends on your needs, but hiring a lawyer is recommended, especially if you suffered serious injuries. While it’s possible to file a claim on your own, dealing with a hit-and-run accident can be complicated. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer can provide valuable guidance during the legal process.
Our Eastvale hit-and-run accident lawyers can handle injury cases, even complex claims. We will work diligently to prevent lowball offers and assist you in pursuing compensation based on the extent of your damages.
How Much Will An Eastvale Hit-And-Run Accident Attorney Cost?
It generally depends on the billing policies of the attorney or the law firm. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Eastvale work on a contingency fee basis. Instead of receiving payment up front, our lawyers only receive a specific percentage of the settlement.
If we don’t secure compensation on your behalf, you won’t owe us any legal fees. However, other case-related costs may still apply. It’s important to discuss these potential costs with your legal team to understand the full financial implications of your case. Our lawyers clarify our fee structure and any potential extra costs before a client agrees to representation.
Contact Arash Law’s Eastvale Hit-And-Run Lawyers!
Not only is a car accident frustrating, but a driver running off can make it worse. Without the liable party, it would be difficult to recover damages. At Arash Law, we are here to help you explore your options.
Whether you are negotiating your claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or your insurer, we can assist you in seeking a settlement amount that reflects your losses. Talk to our Eastvale hit-and-run accident attorneys. Call us at (888) 488-1391 and schedule a free initial consultation.
Apart from Eastvale, we proudly serve other areas such as Norco, Mira Loma, Corona, Pedley, Glen Avon, Chino, Ontario, Chino Hills, Rubidoux, Montclair, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, Pomona, Riverside, and Claremont.
