Mission Viejo 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.
Our Mission Viejo Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Are Ready To Review Your Case
Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers are here to advocate for your rights as an injured victim. Even when the fleeing driver isn’t found, we will work to help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Hit-and-run accidents present unique challenges. These incidents result in complex legal processes, which can be overwhelming. Our attorneys provide crucial support to victims, guiding them through the claims process. We will team up with law enforcement and experts to investigate and assess every detail as we build your case. If the hit-and-run driver cannot be found, we will work to find other legal avenues for compensation.
Why Hire Our Mission Viejo Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
As an experienced personal injury law firm in California, Arash Law can provide legal support to victims of hit-and-run accidents. Here are some reasons to consider our attorneys:
- Experience With Hit-and-Run Claims — With decades of combined experience in personal injury law, our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers can navigate the complexities of your situation.
- Free Initial Case Evaluation — We provide a complimentary initial consultation to help you explore your legal options. During this meeting, you’ll get clear insights into your case and determine if our team is the right fit for you. We can meet at the location that is most convenient for you, whether it’s our office, your home, or even a hospital room.
- Comprehensive Support — Our hit-and-run accident attorneys handle each case with great care because we know what’s at stake for victims. Not only will we pursue fair compensation, but we can also connect you to doctors or medical facilities to assist in getting proper treatment for your injuries.
- Client-Centered Approach — We will keep you informed throughout the legal process, work closely with you, and provide regular updates. We will answer all your questions to help you understand every aspect of your case.
- Local Knowledge — We are familiar with local hit-and-run laws and safety regulations and can help you build a well-supported case tailored to your situation.
Here’s one of the many testimonials we received from our clients:
“When the worst day of your life happens like it did for us in 2021 when my son was in a terrible accident which almost took his life, we thankfully found Arash Law, gave us the peace of mind that their team were taking care of our every need.” — Laurie F. (Google Review)
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
How Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Can Help Victims
Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers understand how overwhelming these situations can be. Victims may feel hopeless if the at-fault driver remains unidentified. With medical bills piling up, the added stress of filing a claim and seeking compensation can be too much for someone recovering from an injury. Our attorneys can:
- Investigate Your Case — We can collaborate with law enforcement and gather crucial evidence that may help identify the hit-and-run driver. We can contact witnesses and review available footage from the scene.
- Determine the Extent of Your Losses — Our lawyers will carefully assess and document your damages. This way, we can help you seek compensation that addresses all your losses.
- Review Your Insurance Policy — If we can’t pursue the hit-and-run driver, we can explore other options. Many victims seek compensation through their uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, given that they have it in their policies. Our attorneys will carefully review your policy to determine what coverage applies to your case.
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies — Some insurance providers might undervalue or deny claims after conducting their own investigations. Our experienced attorneys handle all negotiations and gather additional evidence to support your claim.
- Protect Your Interests — We’ll guide you on what to avoid, such as giving recorded statements, ignoring medical advice, or sharing case details on social media. We’ll also advise you on what to do, like keeping thorough records, following your doctor’s instructions, and reporting all damages.
Some Reasons Why Hit-And-Run Drivers Flee An Accident
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver leaves the scene of a collision without providing identification or assistance. Under California law, drivers must stop and provide their name, address, vehicle registration, and driver’s license if requested. If there are injuries or property damage, they are also required to offer assistance, such as arranging medical help.
Despite these legal obligations, many drivers choose to flee the scene instead of taking responsibility. The primary reasons drivers flee the scene include:
- Lacking insurance.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Having a suspended or expired driver’s license.
- Fearing legal consequences or license revocation due to prior infractions.
- Using a borrowed or stolen vehicle.
- Possessing illicit substances or stolen property.
If you’re a victim of a hit-and-run in Mission Viejo, our accident lawyers can help you understand your rights in these situations. We can help you explore other legal avenues for compensation if the at-fault driver is not found.
Hurt in a Hit-And-Run Accident?
How Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Establish Negligence
To pursue a hit-and-run case, you must show that the at-fault party was negligent. In certain situations, such as when an intoxicated driver causes a collision, the violation of the law may automatically constitute negligence, applying the principle of negligence per se. However, this legal doctrine does not apply in every situation.
Fleeing the scene is a legal violation, but it does not automatically demonstrate that the at-fault driver caused the collision. Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident attorneys can assist you in establishing these four essential elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — Establish that the at-fault driver has a legal obligation to exercise due care, including following traffic laws and avoiding reckless behavior while driving.
- Breach of Duty — Show that the at-fault driver violated their duty of care. These may include actions such as driving under the influence, falling asleep at the wheel, or neglecting vehicle maintenance. Any behavior that deviates from what a reasonable person would do in similar circumstances is a breach of duty.
- Causation — Gather evidence that the at-fault driver’s breach of duty directly caused the accident that led to your injuries. Our car accident lawyers can use traffic surveillance footage, police records, and eyewitness statements, among others, to prove this.
- Damages — Confirm that you incurred losses due to the accident. Examples include physical injuries or property damage.
The lawyers at our Mission Viejo injury law firm will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your case. We will review critical details and gather evidence that may help establish the liability of the hit-and-run driver.
Potential Damages In A Hit-And-Run Accident Case
After a hit-and-run incident, you may be able to seek compensation for many losses. Depending on the details of your case, our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers can assist you in pursuing damages, which may include:- Medical Expenses — You may be eligible to seek reimbursement for the costs of treatments and ongoing care for your injuries. Emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and other procedures may be included.
- Lost Wages — Certain injuries, such as bone fractures, internal organ damage, or those requiring surgery, may result in an extended rehabilitation period. These circumstances may lead to missed work and lost wages. In such cases, you may be able to seek compensation for the wages you lost during rehabilitation.
- Loss of Earning Capacity and Future Earnings — If you suffer severe injuries, like spinal cord damage or a traumatic brain injury, it may affect your ability to work in the future. In that case, you may also pursue compensation for loss of earning potential and loss of future earnings.
- Property Damage — You may be eligible to file a claim for the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged or destroyed in the incident.
- Pain and Suffering — This refers to the physical and emotional pain you endure due to the accident. The damages can include psychological effects such as anxiety, depression, and a diminished quality of life.
Compensation Options For Hit-And-Run Accident Victims In Mission Viejo
A hit-and-run victim may face physical injuries, vehicle damage, and uncertainty about who will cover the costs. If the at-fault driver remains unidentified, our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident attorneys can assist you in exploring other options to pursue compensation, including the following:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage — This coverage can help cover medical expenses and vehicle repairs when the at-fault party has no insurance or insufficient coverage. While optional in California, many drivers carry UM/UIM coverage. This provision in your auto insurance policy can cover damages in the event of a hit-and-run incident.
- Collision Insurance — This insurance covers damage to your vehicle in accidents, regardless of fault. While lenders typically require it for borrowers with auto loans or leases, collision insurance is optional if you own your vehicle outright. This coverage does not cover medical expenses, but it will pay for repairs to your car.
- Medical Payments Coverage or MedPay — This optional add-on can cover medical expenses, including procedures, hospital stays, and rehabilitation, following a hit-and-run. Coverage amounts vary based on your policy’s limit.
- State Assistance — If other insurance options are insufficient, victims of hit-and-run accidents in California may qualify for state assistance. The California Victim Compensation (CalVCB) Program is one example of a government program that can provide financial aid when other avenues fail. Eligible victims include individuals affected by hit-and-run incidents, along with those impacted by various other crimes.
It’s important to understand that CalVCB may seek reimbursement from your personal injury settlement. Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident attorneys will explore all available options that may help cover your injuries and losses.
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Accident
Accidents are traumatic, but they’re even more distressing when the driver flees. While it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, the actions you take afterward can help support your case and assist in identifying the hit-and-run driver. Here are some steps to consider:
- Call for Help and Notify the Authorities — Call 911 for emergency assistance, providing your location and the number of injured victims. If the police do not respond at the scene, it’s crucial to contact authorities promptly and provide them with any details you have about the individual who struck you.
- Document As Many Details As You Can — Capturing key details can help identify the driver. If you can, gather the following information:
- Vehicle model, make, and color
- Distinctive features (e.g., dents, bumper stickers)
- Driver description, if observed
- Full or partial license plate number, if visible
- Contributing factors to the collision
- Avoid Chasing After the Hit-and-Run Driver — The hit-and-run driver may be intoxicated, wanted by authorities, or experiencing road rage. Pursuing them increases your risk of injury. Let the police handle the investigation.
- Talk to Eyewitnesses — If there are witnesses, ask for any details you may have missed. Collect their contact information, as their official statements can be vital to your case.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention — Regardless of how minor you believe your injuries are, seek medical care immediately. Conditions like whiplash or traumatic brain injuries may not show symptoms right away.
- Inform Your Insurer About the Incident — While the at-fault driver should be responsible for your damages, informing your insurance company can help you access your benefits in case of delays or if the driver remains unidentified.
- Consult Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers in Mission Viejo — Your hit-and-run accident lawyer can assist you in exploring other legal avenues for compensation while the authorities are still looking for the driver.
Benny and Brian Beecher represented a 3-year-old boy who sustained a mild traumatic brain injury after he was run over by a golf cart at a fair. The insurance company for the fair argued that the child was already born disabled and that the blame was on the child’s parents for allegedly failing to supervise him. Benny and Brian fought this case for years until justice was served for our deserving client. The settlement was obtained during jury selection in Sacramento County.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Deadline For Filing A Hit-And-Run Accident Case
If you are filing for an insurance claim after a hit-and-run, it may be beneficial to do it as soon as you can. Insurance companies have varying deadlines for their policies. Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident attorneys can assist you in reviewing your existing policies to avoid missing these deadlines.
However, if you are filing for a lawsuit, there is a different time limit. In California, the deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years. Failing to file your case within this timeframe may mean forfeiting your eligibility to seek compensation.
Although two years may seem like plenty of time, investigating your case and gathering evidence can take time. Waiting too long to consult an attorney can lead to missed opportunities, as crucial evidence, such as dashcam footage or surveillance video, could be lost or deleted.
If the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified, you can file a John Doe lawsuit. This option lets you take legal action while the investigation is ongoing. This way, you preserve your right to sue if the driver is identified at a later time. Once the authorities find the at-fault driver, you can amend the lawsuit to include their name.
If you’re unsure whether you have a valid claim, simply fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form. We’ll evaluate your case and determine your legal options.
Mission Viejo Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in 2022, hit-and-run incidents were responsible for approximately 2,932 fatalities. Additionally, of the 7,522 pedestrian fatalities that year, 1,910, or 25%, were the result of hit-and-run accidents. National data shows the scale of these types of accidents. Unfortunately, these traffic incidents are notorious in Mission Viejo as well.
Our team used UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) to determine the number of hit-and-run incidents in Mission Viejo. Looking at available data on March 2025, we found out that from 2022 to 2024:
- There were a total of 63 hit-and-run incidents in the city.
- These incidents resulted in 96 injuries and one fatality.
- About 65% of these hit-and-run incidents occurred on state highways.
Hit-and-run victims, whether in Mission Viejo or across the United States, face a heightened risk of fatal injuries, along with the potential for serious, life-altering harm. Despite the challenges, victims may still be able to pursue compensation. Our experienced Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers are committed to advocating for your rights and helping you seek fair compensation.
Hit-And-Run Victims In Mission Viejo Also Ask
Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident attorneys understand the challenges victims face. Many ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer after a hit-and-run?” It may be beneficial to hire an accident lawyer after such an incident. A personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim. Below, we have provided answers to some of the common questions regarding hit-and-run incidents. For personalized guidance, call us at (888) 488-1391.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyer Near Me?
Most hit-and-run accident lawyers in Mission Viejo work on a contingency fee basis. This means no upfront lawyer costs. You only pay lawyer fees if they obtain compensation on your behalf. This arrangement aims to help anyone, regardless of their financial situation, access legal representation without worrying about upfront payments.
However, case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome of the case. If you choose to work with us, our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers will discuss the fees and other potential costs during your initial consultation.
How Much Is A Hit-And-Run Accident Worth?
The value of a hit-and-run case can vary widely, depending on the specifics of the case. Factors such as the victim’s age, profession, earning capacity, and the severity of the injuries all play a significant role in determining the case’s value.
It’s important to note that these are general factors, and the final settlement in a hit-and-run case will depend on the unique details of your situation. Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident attorneys can evaluate your case to find out how much it might be worth.
How Long Does It Take To Resolve A Hit-And-Run Accident Case?
The timeframe of a hit-and-run case depends on several factors. The severity of the accident, the insurance companies involved, and the quality of legal representation all play a role in determining the duration of a hit-and-run case. These cases can often be lengthy, particularly if identifying the at-fault driver takes time.
Additionally, the driver’s willingness to cooperate can impact the timeline. If the case proceeds to court, the duration may take longer. To get a deeper understanding of your case timeline, consult our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers.
Is There Any Hope Of Catching The Offender In Hit-And-Run Cases?
There’s no surefire way to predict what will happen, but some hit-and-run drivers do get caught through available evidence. In many cases, surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and thorough police investigations play a crucial role in identifying hit-and-run drivers. Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident attorneys can partner with law enforcement to collect critical evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, and identify the at-fault driver.
Reach Out To Our Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys In Mission Viejo
Even if the at-fault driver never gets identified, there may still be ways to pursue compensation. Our Mission Viejo hit-and-run accident lawyers can guide you in exploring other avenues for compensation. We work towards fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. For a free and confidential initial consultation, call us at (888) 488-1391.
Apart from hit-and-runs, our Mission Viejo lawyers also support victims of car crashes, truck collisions, slip-and-falls, DUIs, rideshare accidents, and dog bites, among others. We extend our legal service to the rest of Orange County, including Laguna Hills, Lake Forest, Laguna Woods, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, Irvine, San Clemente, Tustin, Costa Mesa, and Newport Beach.