Glendale Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers
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Our Glendale Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Guiding You Through Your Legal Options
Glendale is no stranger to hit-and-run accidents. Yearly, many individuals and their families suffer because of other drivers’ negligence and cowardice to face the consequences of their actions. A hit-and-run accident can be financially and emotionally devastating for victims. If you were injured in this type of crash, our Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers can discuss your situation and explain the legal options available to you. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
A hit-and-run occurs when someone flees the scene of an accident without providing assistance or giving their name or plate number. Victims of such incidents often face greater challenges in receiving optimal care and support since the liable driver is nowhere to be found. Working with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for injuries and other losses resulting from another person’s negligence.
We know how upsetting it can be when a driver leaves you after an accident, but you may still have options, and we are here to help. Our Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers can review your case and guide you on how to proceed. Complete our online form to schedule a free initial consultation.
Belanger v. City of Simi Valley (settled on 4/13/2021) – settlement in a case involving a client who was hit by a vehicle while working as a crossing guard resulting in orthopedic injuries as well as a traumatic brain injury.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Hit-And-Run Statistics In California And The United States
In 2018, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reported an average of 682,000 hit-and-run accidents in the United States annually. Since 2009, the number of fatalities from hit-and-runs has climbed by more than 7% annually. More than 737,000 such incidents occurred in 2015, making up more than 11% of all traffic accidents. Over 1,800 people lost their lives, and over 138,000 were injured as a result. The greatest number of hit-and-run deaths nationwide in 2016 was recorded in California, where there were 337 cases.
How Glendale Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Support Your Case
In California, hit-and-run accident cases are different than typical car crashes. For one, victims cannot simply file a claim and seek compensation unless the driver is apprehended. Since this is not often the case, drivers ought to have uninsured motorist coverage.
Law-abiding drivers are at risk during accidents due to uninsured motorists, who were at 16.6% in 2019 in California, as reported by the Insurance Information Institute. For accident victims, seeking compensation can be more complicated when the at-fault driver does not have insurance. Even with uninsured motorist coverage, disputes sometimes arise regarding the value of a claim or the extent of coverage. Insurance companies may also challenge certain claims or limit payouts for a variety of reasons.
A Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyer can assist by reviewing your policy, communicating with the insurance company, and pursuing fair compensation for injuries and other losses. The legal process may include evaluating evidence, consulting with experts, and preparing a case for trial if settlement discussions do not lead to a resolution. Having legal guidance in these situations can help clarify your options.
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Accident In Glendale, California?
What you do soon after a hit-and-run accident can have a significant impact on your case. The priority is, of course, to secure your safety and well-being, including that of other people involved, by moving to a safe location, if possible, to avoid further crashes or injuries. Afterward, you may find it helpful to take the following steps:
- Note down any information you can remember about the offending car, such as its license plate (even if partial), color, make, model, and where it was going.
- Call the authorities for emergency assistance from law enforcement and medical personnel.
- Request that witnesses remain and provide statements to the authorities.
- Take pictures and videos of the accident scene and the surrounding area.
- Provide the authorities with an accurate and direct description of what happened. Do not make any assumptions and avoid taking the blame, even to your insurer.
- Consult with Glendale hit-and-run accident attorneys before engaging in discussion with any parties, including the insurance companies. They can provide guidance on your next steps and help protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Why Do Drivers Leave The Scene After A Hit-and-Run Accident?
Colliding with another vehicle does not automatically result in imprisonment. Leaving the scene, though, presents more severe repercussions. Every motorist must have known this. So it begs the question of why anyone would risk facing the consequences instead of simply staying at the scene. Here are some reasons to explain why:
- Having a suspended or revoked license.
- Having no license.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Carrying an illegal weapon.
- There is already a warrant for arrest.
- The vehicle has been stolen.
- No vehicle insurance.
- Fear of deportation due to being undocumented.
In apprehending the fleeing driver, authorities will obtain information from you, eyewitnesses, and camera footage if available. The driver, when caught, could face misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances of the crash.
Representing Victims Of Glendale Hit-And-Run Accidents
Representing victims of Glendale hit-and-run accidents, the attorneys at Arash Law assist clients in seeking accountability and pursuing compensation for damages. Accidents where the responsible party flees the scene can be particularly distressing. In such cases, our legal team acts as advocates, helping victims navigate the legal complexities they will face in the aftermath.
Using evidence, surveillance footage, and witness testimonies, our attorneys can work closely with law enforcement agencies to identify the hit-and-run driver. Using uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, they also help victims file claims with their own insurance companies. Throughout the process, Glendale hit-and-run accident attorneys can offer guidance and support to help protect a victim’s legal rights, allowing them to focus on rehabilitation after a traumatic incident.
Hit-And-Run Penalties In Glendale, California
Under California Vehicle Code 20002, hit-and-run is a misdemeanor punishable by the following penalties:
- Up to 6 months imprisonment.
- A fine of up to $1,000.
- Possible combination of jail time and fine.
- 3 years of probation.
- Restitution for property damage.
- 2 points on the California driving record.
In California, Penal Code 20001 applies to drivers who leave the scene of an accident without leaving identifying information. It can be charged either as a misdemeanor or as a felony with the following penalties:
- Misdemeanor Penalties:
- Fine ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.
- Up to one year in county jail.
- Felony Penalties:
- Fine ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.
- 16 months to 3 years in state prison.
- 2 to 4 years in state prison in cases involving death or serious injury to another party.
Common Injuries And Damages After A Hit-and-Run Accident In Glendale
No matter the type of vehicle, every traffic collision has the potential to result in any level of harm. If the perfect conditions exist, victims may suffer significant injuries that require extensive medical attention. Hit-and-runs worsen these unfortunate situations. In such instances, Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers can support victims in assessing the damages they incurred due to their injuries.
The following are some of the common injuries victims sustain in hit-and-run accidents in Glendale:
- Head and brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Internal injuries and organ damage
- Bruises, cuts, and fractures
- Wrongful death
A hit-and-run accident could also cause significant damage to your car. To alleviate the financial burden of having to deal with the aftermath, you may have the option to pursue compensation for these possible expenses. Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers can guide you through the claims process and help you understand your legal options for seeking damages.
What Types Of Damages Can I Seek For My Hit-and-Run Accident Injuries?
If you are lucky, you can walk away from a hit-and-run collision with minor wounds. A violent crash, however, can lead to significant injuries, from broken bones to more serious brain damage. Aside from medical conditions, you may also have to deal with the damage the accident caused to your car and perhaps other properties.
Such a financial burden can be too much for victims. Glendale hit-and-run accident attorneys can evaluate the details of your case, gather supporting evidence, and advocate on your behalf as you pursue fair compensation for accident-related losses.
The damages victims may be able to pursue following an accident can be categorized as economic and non-economic.
- Economic damages are tangible losses that can be calculated, including present and long-term medical expenses, repair or replacement costs for property, present and future lost wages, and lost earning capacity.
- Non-economic damages are intangible and are hard to quantify. This includes pain and suffering, emotional anguish, trauma, reduced quality of life, and loss of consortium.
- Punitive damages may also be awarded in rare cases if there is clear evidence that the negligent party acted with malice and willful disregard of the rights of others.
A wrongful death claim can be pursued when a loved one or immediate family member is killed in a hit-and-run crash. In these cases, eligible family members can seek compensation for various losses, including loss of financial support, burial costs, and funeral expenses, among others.
However, being eligible for these types of damages does not mean they are automatically awarded. The process of seeking compensation typically involves filing a claim with an insurance company, negotiating for a settlement, and presenting sufficient documentation and evidence in court if necessary. These steps can be especially challenging in hit-and-run cases where the at-fault driver may not be identified. Our Glendale personal injury lawyers can help you explore other legal avenues to seek compensation after such an incident.
Who Pays For Damages In A Hit-and-Run Case?
Who’s going to cover the medical expenses? How can lost income be recouped? Will pain and suffering, something hard to calculate, be compensated for? These and other legitimate concerns make getting through the aftermath of a hit-and-run or any other accident very challenging and stressful for victims. The following are the potential avenues of reimbursement and compensation for those who are suffering personal injuries.
- The Other Driver — While a driver may attempt to avoid responsibility for causing a traffic incident, law enforcement agencies have investigative tools and procedures that can sometimes help identify individuals who flee the scene. If the driver is located, they may face legal consequences and could also be held financially accountable for the harm caused. In many cases, their insurance coverage may provide compensation for the damages suffered by victims, depending on the circumstances of the claim.
- Your Insurance Provider — In some situations, especially when the driver is not caught despite efforts from the authorities, your insurance company may cover a portion or all of your losses. Your policy will be examined to see how much of the liability is on them.
- Workers’ Compensation Coverage — Should a hit-and-run incident occur while an employee is on the job, workers’ compensation benefits may provide reimbursement for related medical costs, missed income, and any additional damages.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Insurance — How To Pursue Compensation After A Hit-And-Run?
You have done all you could after a hit-and-run by reporting to the authorities and providing everything you know. However, there’s a possibility that the offending motorist may never be identified. So how can you seek compensation when you have no idea who hit you?
Uninsured motorist insurance protects you in such situations. In case of an accident, California motorists are obliged by law to have a minimum amount of liability insurance, but uninsured motorist coverage is optional. If you are in an accident with a driver with no auto insurance, you might have to pay for your own losses out of pocket. If you carry UM coverage, you can seek financial relief by filing a claim with your own insurance company.
You can speak with your insurer to know more about your coverage. Filing a UM claim, however, can be complex. Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers can step in to review your case, present supporting evidence, and advocate for a fair assessment of your claim.
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
The Statute Of Limitations For Filing Personal Injury Claims
There’s a time limit for accident victims who intend to submit a claim. This means you must move swiftly to pursue compensation after a hit-and-run. Failing to file within the required timeframe may prevent an injured party from filing a lawsuit. Victims typically lose their legal right to sue if they are unable to submit a claim before the deadline expires.
In California, accident claims involving hit-and-runs are categorized as personal injury claims. Generally, these claims must be filed within two years of the date of the incident. Furthermore, any property damage resulting from the accident is subject to a three-year statute of limitations.
Although certain exceptions are considered, it remains critical for accident victims to observe applicable deadlines. All the necessary documentation and paperwork can easily overwhelm those who are recovering from injuries. Hit-and-run accident lawyers in Glendale can help manage the legal requirements and gather supporting documentation while considering these important deadlines.
Establishing Negligence In A Hit-And-Run Case In Glendale
In establishing negligence in a hit-and-run case, your Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers should demonstrate the following elements:
- Duty of Care — Show that the at-fault party owed a duty of care to others on the road.
- Breach of Duty — Present evidence that the hit-and-run driver breached their duty through their actions or omissions, causing the accident.
- Causation — Establish a direct link between the at-fault driver’s actions and the injuries or damages suffered by the victim.
- Damages — Show proof that the victim suffered losses due to the accident, which may include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, among others.
Establishing liability often involves collecting witness statements, surveillance footage, and physical evidence like vehicle debris to identify the responsible party and demonstrate their negligence. A Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyer knows how to gather and preserve key evidence, consult with specialists or experts, and draw on experience from similar cases to help strengthen a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glendale Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
How Much Does Hiring Glendale Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys Cost?
Many Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers work on a contingency fee arrangement. This means you only pay legal fees if they recover compensation for you. Nevertheless, certain case-related expenses may still apply regardless of the case result. In such cases, the amount of attorney’s fees depends on the complexity of the case and the resources required to manage it.
This arrangement allows accident victims to access legal representation without upfront lawyer costs. It’s vital to discuss fee structures and any potential additional costs with your chosen legal counsel during the initial consultation to ensure transparency and clarity regarding legal expenses.
How Can Glendale Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Help With A Hit-And-Run Claim?
Hit-and-run accident lawyers in Glendale have the experience and resources to investigate hit-and-run accidents, gather evidence to identify the liable party, and build a solid case to establish negligence and causation. They can assist victims in understanding the technical aspects of insurance claims, communicate with insurers to address settlement offers, and take legal action if a resolution cannot be reached. In addition, attorneys may provide guidance throughout the process, helping clients focus on their recovery while their legal concerns are being addressed.
How Long Does A Hit-And-Run Accident Case Take To Resolve?
The timeline for hit-and-run accident cases can vary significantly due to several factors. The processing of validating your claim alone may take some time. It often involves the difficulty of identifying the responsible party, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursuing legal action. Once the at-fault driver is identified and has insurance, a settlement may be reached relatively quickly.
However, if the driver is not found or is uninsured or underinsured, the case could take longer, and legal action may be required. Moreover, the extent of injuries and damages and the complexity of the case can impact the timeline. Skilled hit-and-run accident lawyers in Glendale can provide a clearer estimate of how long it may take to resolve your specific accident case.
Contact Our Glendale Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run accident, you may have legal options to seek compensation for injuries, lost income, property damage, and other related losses. Whether or not the at-fault driver is identified, a personal injury attorney can guide you through the claims process and explain how California law applies to your situation.
At Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyers are committed to carefully reviewing each case and providing clear guidance. We focus on giving clients the information they need to make informed decisions about their legal options.
For a free initial consultation, call (888) 488-1391. Our team also serves nearby communities, including Sunland, La Crescenta-Montrose, La Cañada Flintridge, Altadena, Pasadena, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Burbank, North Hollywood, and Sun Valley.
