El Segundo Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
El Segundo Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers Offering Dedicated And Compassionate Representation
In a split second, an accident can turn your life upside down. This situation becomes even more distressing when the driver flees the scene. Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers are here to help you through this difficult time. Call us at (888) 488-1391, and let us pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
El Segundo is a beachside gem in Los Angeles, situated along the pristine coast of Southern California. The city boasts a small-town vibe and a booming economy. It also houses the headquarters of the prestigious Los Angeles Times, the Los Angeles Air Force Base, and Fortune 500 corporations like Chevron, L’Oreal, Mattel, and Raytheon.
El Segundo is the perfect destination to enjoy charming neighborhoods and a vibrant downtown. The city has three Metro stops connected to the wider Los Angeles area and is strategically located near major freeways. Travelers have easy access to the town via the Los Angeles International Airport, just a few minutes from the metro proper.
Accidents inevitably occur in busy areas like El Segundo. Unfortunately, not all motorists involved in accidents stay on the scene to face the consequences of their actions. Instead, some drivers choose to flee the scene and avoid taking responsibility.
If you fall victim to a hit-and-run accident, seek legal assistance from our attorneys in El Segundo right away. Drawing on our experience in personal injury law, we’ll look into your legal options to help you hold the potentially liable parties accountable. Don’t let these incidents disrupt your life. Contact us to protect your rights and get the support you need.
Reasons To Hire Our El Segundo Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers
We understand that being involved in a traffic accident can leave you grappling with emotional, physical, mental, and financial challenges all at once. The aftermath of such an incident is even more overwhelming when the liable individual is nowhere to be found. However, this should not discourage you from seeking compensation for your losses.
Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers can represent you in your pursuit of justice. Here are some of what we bring to the table:
- Knowledge and Experience — Our lawyers have decades of combined experience handling personal injury cases, including those involving hit-and-run accidents. With our proficiency, we can provide knowledgeable guidance throughout your legal journey.
- Thorough Case Investigation — Our hit-and-run accident lawyers conduct in-depth investigations to establish liability and negligence. We analyze every available piece of evidence to build a case. We also collaborate with experts from different fields. Their insights and testimony can be invaluable in supporting your claim.
- Dedicated Representation — Our El Segundo attorneys for hit-and-run accident cases can handle all the legal legwork. We will draft correspondence, send demand letters to insurance companies, and represent you in negotiations and litigation. Our team will provide diligent representation, protecting your case from unfair tactics and unfounded allegations.
Our client was a loyal rideshare driver involved in a hit-and-run. The at-fault driver struck our client and fled the scene. After years of litigating in Arbitration for the Underinsured Motorist policy, our co-counselor Kevin Levian set up the case perfectly for an arbitration trial. Ultimately, the case was resolved for the maximum policy limits one week before the arbitration.– BRIAN BEECHER
What Our Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys Can Do For Your Case
Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in El Segundo will work to develop a strategy to help you pursue a favorable outcome for your case. We know that this legal process can be challenging, especially if the hit-and-run driver refuses to cooperate or remains unidentified.
You can rely on our lawyers to evaluate the specifics of the hit-and-run accident. To seek accountability under the law, we can work with El Segundo law enforcement to help track down the negligent driver. We will also leverage our resources to identify other parties who might have contributed to the incident. The process can be tough, but our El Segundo attorneys can use available evidence and records to establish liability and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Additionally, we will assess the losses you incurred by evaluating your case’s potential value and pursuing it through negotiations and litigation. Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers are dedicated to representing your interests and working to help you seek the compensation available to you. We will navigate the legal challenges to support your case.
Hit-and-Run Accidents Defined
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the location without pulling over, providing information, or assisting the injured. In El Segundo and throughout California, drivers are required to remain at the scene of an accident and follow proper procedures, regardless of who is at fault. Failing to do so can result in a hit-and-run charge.
This accident can involve either property damage, bodily harm, or both. For example, leaving the scene after accidentally crashing into a mailbox, a parked vehicle, or a sign is considered a hit-and-run. Similarly, hitting another car, a pedestrian, or any other road user and then fleeing the scene also qualifies as a hit-and-run. The fear of facing serious consequences can cause drivers to panic and flee, especially when the collision results in significant damage or injury.
These incidents can also have devastating effects, especially for vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists. Regrettably, victims of these accidents face significant challenges in pursuing compensation. They often struggle to identify the liable driver and may have to rely on their own insurance coverage for compensation.
Given these issues, it is advisable to work with our El Segundo hit-and-run accident attorneys. We will help you navigate these challenges and seek reparation for your losses.
Hit-and-Run Accident Laws
In California, specific laws and regulations establish a driver’s responsibilities in case of an accident. The California Vehicle Code requires all parties involved in a car accident to do the following:
- Stop immediately at a safe spot.
- Exchange information with other involved parties. Share your full name, home address, insurance details, and plate registrations.
- Leave a note with their information if the owner of the damaged property is absent.
- Provide reasonable assistance to anyone injured, such as calling emergency services.
Hit-and-run criminal cases may be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the incident. If the accident involves only property damage, it is typically charged as a misdemeanor. However, if the accident results in injury or death, it is considered a felony.
In addition to the criminal consequences, hit-and-run accidents in El Segundo also carry civil implications. Victims of hit-and-run accidents have the right to pursue a personal injury case against the responsible driver, provided the driver can be identified.
Fortunately, even if you can’t identify the driver, you might still be able to file a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage (UM) if you have it. This coverage is designed to protect you in cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or unidentified.
Our lawyers in El Segundo can help you understand your options following a hit-and-run accident. With legal representation, you have someone who can advocate for your interests throughout the legal process.
Why Hit-and-Run Drivers Flee The Scene
A vehicle collision can be distressing for all involved. Injured victims worry about healing and seeking reparation, while at-fault drivers are anxious about facing legal consequences. Regrettably, some drivers choose to avoid responsibility by leaving the scene, disregarding the impact of their actions on the victims.
Besides the fear of dealing with legal implications, these are some common reasons why drivers flee the accident scene:
- The person at fault assumes the incident’s impact is only minor.
- The driver thinks no one witnessed the crash.
- They don’t have auto insurance.
- Their license and driving privileges are suspended, restricted, or revoked.
- The motorist is driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, drugs, or both.
- The driver panics and continues to drive away from the scene.
Leaving the scene of an accident is not only illegal but also a blatant disregard for the victims’ well-being. Drivers who engage in this behavior must be held accountable for their actions. Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers will help gather evidence to identify the at-fault party. Even if the driver is never pinpointed, we will explore the available legal options for compensation in your case.
Different Injuries Sustained By Hit-and-Run Accident Victims
Traffic accidents can lead to various injuries, with hit-and-run incidents presenting unique challenges due to the unexpected nature of the event. Like truck accidents, hit-and-run accidents can cause serious bodily harm, particularly when the fleeing driver was speeding when it happened. Speed is a critical factor in these cases, as higher speeds amplify the impact, making severe injuries more likely, regardless of the type of vehicle involved.
Hit-and-run accident victims may suffer the following injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Head and shoulder injuries
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Internal injuries, like organ damage and hemorrhage
- Amputations
- Burns
- Fractures
- Soft tissue injuries
- Lacerations and contusions
- Wrongful deaths
Pedestrians and cyclists are at risk of sustaining more severe injuries because of their lack of protection against motor vehicles. Some might face longer recovery periods, affecting their ability to work or enjoy life.
Compensation aims to address the victim’s potential losses. While insurance companies may offer settlements, these may not fully account for your pain and suffering. By hiring our hit-and-run accident attorneys in El Segundo, you don’t need to be pressured into accepting inadequate payments. Our legal team will work diligently to negotiate with insurers to pursue a settlement that can cover your medical treatments, including hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, and more.
Insurance Coverage For A Hit-and-Run Accident
You might be wondering who pays for your damages in a hit-and-run accident. In California, the person who causes the accident is typically responsible for paying for the resulting loss. However, holding the at-fault party accountable is sometimes challenging, especially if they run away after the incident.
Despite this, victims still have options. Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers will guide you through the process of seeking reimbursement through the following policies:
Auto Insurance Policy
If your car was hit in the accident, you may be able to file a claim with your auto insurance if you have the following coverage:
- MedPay Insurance Claim — If the victim has MedPay included in their auto insurance policy, they may be able to claim coverage for:
- Hospitalization
- Doctor’s fee
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Ambulance service costs
- Lab tests, such as MRIs and X-rays
- Short- and long-term medical treatments
- Collision Coverage — With this coverage, your insurer may shoulder the repair or replacement of your vehicle, subject to your policy terms and deductible, even if the other driver was at fault.
- UM/UIM Coverage — If you opted for Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, this will help you pay for your medical bills and property damage, even if the driver is unidentified. While this coverage is optional, insurance companies are required by law to offer it to you, and should you choose not to buy it, you will need to sign a waiver.
Health Insurance
Your health insurance policy can help cover the costs of your medical expenses, including hospitalization, lab tests, and treatments. However, it typically won’t cover non-medical expenses, such as lost wages, pain and suffering, or other damages related to the accident. Additionally, depending on your policy, you may still be responsible for deductibles, co-pays, and any expenses that exceed your coverage limits.
Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers will explore the available legal avenues for compensation in your case. Whichever route you pursue, we will work to seek compensation that can address your medical expenses and other losses.
Establishing Negligence In A Hit-and-Run Accident
Another way to obtain compensation is to file a personal injury case against the hit-and-run driver (if found) or other parties. However, you have to establish their negligence by demonstrating the following:
- Duty of Care — First, you must demonstrate the liable party’s legal obligation towards you. Drivers, for example, must exercise the utmost care to keep their fellow road users safe. If accidents occur, they must pull off the road, help injured individuals, and exchange contact information.
- Breach of Duty — You must also show that the accountable party failed to fulfill their responsibilities. Motorists breach their duty when they act recklessly, such as by speeding or driving while distracted. Similarly, they violate the law when they leave the scene after getting into an accident.
- Causation — The next step is proving that the accident caused your injuries or other losses. You should seek medical attention promptly after the accident to support your case. Any delay might give insurance companies a reason to question the connection between the accident and your injuries.
- Damages — Finally, you must prove you sustained damages in the hit-and-run accident. These include medical bills, missed wages, repair costs for damaged properties, and pain and suffering.
All four elements must be established for a valid claim. Even if only one is not proven, the case could be dismissed. Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident attorneys can help you gather the necessary evidence to substantiate these elements for your case.
Compensation For Hit-and-Run Accident Victims
Hit-and-run accidents can take a toll on victims in various ways. Injured parties may file a personal injury claim and pursue compensation for the following economic and non-economic damages:
- Present and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- In-home care services
- Missed wages
- Loss of potential earnings
- Repair and replacement for damaged properties
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Anxiety
- PTSD
- Permanent or temporary disabilities
- Scarring and disfigurements
- Loss of quality of life
- Loss of consortium
In rare instances, the court may also grant punitive damages, also known as exemplary damages. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not intended to pay for a victim’s losses. They are designed to punish the defendant for particularly reckless behavior and potentially deter others from engaging in similar conduct.
Consult our lawyers in El Segundo if you get injured in a hit-and-run accident. We will help you understand these damages and assess their value for your case.
What To Do After A Hit-and-Run Accident In El Segundo
Being in a motor vehicle accident can be overwhelming, especially when the at-fault driver flees the scene. It can leave you feeling shocked and uncertain about what to do next. In this challenging situation, try to stay calm and be cautious of your actions. Remember that your next steps may affect your legal options and recovery from injury.
Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers suggest you follow these crucial steps:
Focus On Your Safety First
If possible, carefully move your vehicle to the side of the road or a safe area to prevent the risk of another collision. Once you are out of immediate danger, take a moment to assess yourself for any injuries. If you or anyone involved in the accident is injured, call 911 to request emergency medical assistance. Provide the dispatcher with clear information about your location and the nature of the injuries to allow help to arrive as quickly as possible.
Report To Law Enforcement
After a collision, notify the California Highway Patrol (CHP) about the accident. You may also call the El Segundo Police Department at (310) 524-2760. Promptly reporting the incident increases the chances of quickly apprehending the fleeing motorist.
Even if no authorities arrive at the scene, you must still file an accident report for insurance and legal purposes. A police report is crucial in building a case against the negligent parties. You can request a copy of this document from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the police station where you reported, typically within a few days.
Gather Solid Evidence And Other Information
Document the accident site by taking photos and videos of your injuries, the other parties present, and the road conditions. If possible, take note of the following details while they are still fresh in your memory:
- Time of the accident.
- Location of the accident.
- Vehicle information like make, model, color, and license plate number.
- Road and weather conditions during the accident.
- The at-fault driver’s behavior before the accident occurred.
- The direction in which the fleeing driver headed.
Additionally, ask any eyewitnesses for their contact information. Their testimony can be invaluable in corroborating your account of the incident and strengthening your claim.
Seek Further Medical Attention
After leaving the accident scene, see a doctor for a more comprehensive check-up of your physical well-being. Some injuries may not manifest at the onset, so a thorough medical examination is essential to identify and address hidden issues. Additionally, secure a copy of your medical record, as this can support your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Get Legal Assistance From Experienced Hit-and-Run Lawyers
If you sustain injuries in a hit-and-run accident, get in touch with our El Segundo lawyers as soon as it is safe to do so. We will review your claim and guide you on the appropriate legal action to take. Moreover, we can advocate for your legal rights and assist you in seeking compensation for your damages. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
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
Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics
Hit-and-run accidents continue to increase in El Segundo and throughout the United States. In 2021, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) recorded five hit-and-run cases that resulted in fatalities and injuries in the city. This figure marks a significant increase compared to the single hit-and-run crash recorded in 2020.
In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that traffic crashes across the United States resulted in the deaths of 7,388 pedestrians. Notably, 23% of these fatalities, or nearly one in four, were caused by hit-and-run drivers.
As concerns over hit-and-run accidents grow, our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers remain committed to assisting injured victims. We will stand by them throughout the legal process, assisting with negotiations and exploring all available options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hit-and-Run Accidents
Do I Need A Lawyer For My Hit-and-Run Accident Case?
Have you been wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer for my hit-and-run?” If so, call us for a consultation. We can provide clarity on how an attorney can assist with your claim.
In El Segundo, victims are not required to get attorneys for hit-and-run accident claims. However, you may struggle to determine the right steps to take or understand your rights if you proceed without legal assistance. A lawyer can help you gather evidence to establish fault and substantiate your losses. Furthermore, they can evaluate your damages to come up with an appropriate settlement value to pursue.
For complex hit-and-run accident cases, our El Segundo lawyers offer comprehensive legal assistance and are prepared to guide you through the intricacies of filing a claim.
How Important Is An Investigation In A Hit-and-Run Accident?
Investigations are crucial in hit-and-run accidents, especially when they result in significant property damage, injuries, or fatalities. An investigation helps preserve the accident scene, identify the involved parties, and gather critical evidence. Key pieces of evidence collected during an investigation include:
- Photos and videos of destroyed property
- Witness statements
- Footage from dashboard cameras
- CCTV recordings from nearby establishments
- Skid marks
If there are no clear leads, the investigation can take months. Unfortunately, in some cases, the hit-and-run driver is never identified. Eventually, the police may decide that they have reached a dead end in the investigation and close the case.
If you find yourself in this situation, consult our experienced El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers. We can explore alternative ways to pursue compensation for your losses, even if the at-fault driver is never found.
What Happens If A Hit-and-Run Driver Is Never Identified?
If the driver responsible for a hit-and-run accident is never identified or found, victims won’t have a way to hold them accountable for their actions. They will have to find other ways to deal with their increasing medical expenses and other financial challenges. Nevertheless, our El Segundo hit-and-run attorneys can help you seek compensation through other means.
To help you navigate this challenging situation, we are here to provide support. Our team will take care of all the legal aspects, including negotiating with your insurance provider, to assist you in seeking compensation for the losses you incurred.
Can A Passenger Be Held Liable For A Hit-and-Run?
There are specific circumstances where a passenger could potentially be held accountable for a hit-and-run incident. For example, if the passenger actively encourages the driver to flee the scene or is involved in the driver’s unlawful behavior, they could face liability. However, simply being present in the vehicle during a hit-and-run does not automatically make one partially responsible.
If you have questions about a passenger’s potential liability in a hit-and-run incident, talk to our hit-and-run accident lawyers in El Segundo. We can explain the legal matters surrounding this issue and how they might impact your case.
How Long Do You Have To File A Hit-and-Run Accident Case In El Segundo?
Under California law, hit-and-run accident victims can pursue legal action within two years from the date of the incident. If a claim is not filed within this period, your case may be dismissed, and you could lose your right to pursue compensation.
The deadline may be extended or shortened depending on the circumstances. If your injuries were not immediately apparent, you have one year from the date you discovered the injury to file a claim. The statute of limitations may also be paused if the at-fault driver is a minor, out of state, or in prison.
Are you unsure about the timeline that applies to your specific case? Consult our El Segundo attorneys to review the specifics of the accident and explain the applicable deadlines.
Who Can Sue For A Hit-and-Run Accident?
Any individual who suffers injuries or property damage as a result of a hit-and-run accident in El Segundo has the right to sue. This includes drivers, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and undocumented immigrants. Under California law, all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, have the right to pursue compensation for injuries and damages sustained in a hit-and-run accident.
To understand your rights, consult our hit-and-run accident lawyers in El Segundo. We are committed to helping you seek damages, no matter what your immigration status is.
Reach Out To The Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers Serving El Segundo
Like other traffic incidents, hit-and-run accidents can have severe repercussions for victims. What makes these situations even more difficult is the uncertainty of who to hold accountable, as the at-fault driver has already fled the scene. In such challenging circumstances, seek legal guidance from Arash Law.
Our El Segundo hit-and-run accident lawyers have extensive experience handling cases like yours. When you hire us, you’ll see the dedicated commitment we bring to every case. We will advocate for justice and pursue an appropriate settlement or award on your behalf. Call our hit-and-run accident attorneys in El Segundo at (888) 488-1391 to have an initial review of your case for free.
Our law firm also accommodates hit-and-run accident victims from nearby cities and locations, such as Manhattan Beach, Hawthorne, Lennox, Hermosa Beach, Lawndale, Inglewood, Redondo Beach, Alondra Park, Gardena, West Athens, Westmont, Culver City, Torrance, Santa Monica, and Palos Verdes Estates.
