Moreno Valley 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 Moreno Valley Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Offer Legal Guidance When The Unexpected Happens
Our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers dedicate themselves to advocating for injured victims. We understand the emotional and financial toll these accidents might have on victims and their families. Whether you’re a pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist, passenger, or another driver, you may have the right to seek compensation. Arash Law can help. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
When a negligent driver flees the scene, seeking damages can become more difficult. You don’t have to face this challenge alone. If the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified, our team can help you explore all available options for pursuing compensation.
Hit-and-run accidents can be both frustrating and overwhelming. Our team is here to handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. Give us a call to see how we may advocate for your rights.
What Does A Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney Do?
Handling a hit-and-run accident claim without legal help can be challenging. That’s why you may wish to seek the support of a skilled legal representative. If you’re wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” read on to learn more about how our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers can assist you:
- Case Preparation and Filing — Filing a claim or lawsuit involves multiple steps, some straightforward and others more complex. Our case-building process begins with an independent investigation, where we gather crucial evidence, review police reports, and interview witnesses. We can also help you file the necessary paperwork within critical deadlines, which may help preserve your right to pursue compensation.
- Settlement Negotiations — We can assess the extent of your damages, considering both current and future losses resulting from the hit-and-run. Our findings may help us negotiate a settlement that closely aligns with your damages.
- Trial Preparation and Representation — If negotiations fail or the offered settlement doesn’t fully cover your losses, our team is ready to file a lawsuit on your behalf. If needed, we can gather expert testimony to provide additional evidence in court.
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
Why Work With Our Moreno Valley Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
Our attorneys prioritize the well-being of victims and have experience handling injury cases across California. Here’s more on how our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers can help handle a valid claim:- No Win, No Fee — Our team operates on a contingency fee basis, which entails no upfront payments or hourly rates. Instead, clients only pay attorney fees if they’re awarded a settlement. However, they may still be charged some case-related costs regardless of how their claim turns out. Our lawyers can discuss this agreement in further detail to help you understand the payment structure. Additionally, we offer free initial consultations, which aim to make legal guidance more accessible to injured victims after a hit-and-run accident.
- Comprehensive Support — Our team listens to your concerns with full attention so we can understand the challenges you face. We offer personalized guidance to help you learn how you may go through the claims process, given the unique circumstances of your hit-and-run.
- Clear Communication — Transparency is at the heart of our approach. We keep clients informed about the progress of their cases by providing timely updates at every step.
- Experienced Representation — Our team is made up of experienced litigators with decades of experience. We can use the knowledge we’ve gained from prior hit-and-run cases to help you pursue compensation both in and out of court as needed.
Questions Victims Frequently Ask Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers (FAQs)
Our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers recognize that victims often have unique questions and concerns regarding their circumstances. To help, we’ve provided answers to some of the most frequently asked legal questions about hit-and-run accidents. If you need personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.
What Is The Cost Of Hiring A Moreno Valley Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyer Near Me?
The cost of hiring a Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyer will depend on the unique details of your case. If an attorney needs to bring your case to court, for example, they may charge you more for the effort they make to prepare your claim for litigation. However, the potential cost of these legal fees doesn’t need to block your access to representation.
Our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay anything up front. Clients only pay attorney fees if they’re awarded a settlement. This structure aims to help them focus on their recovery while our lawyers handle the claims process, regardless of their financial situation. We can further clarify the details of this fee structure during your free first consultation, as some case-related costs may still be charged outside of it.
How Much Is My Hit-And-Run Accident Injury Worth?
Every case is unique, so there is no one answer to this question. An experienced hit-and-run accident attorney can evaluate your claim and estimate the potential value of the compensation you may be entitled to. They will consider the following factors:
- The severity of injuries and recovery time.
- Permanent disabilities and long-term effects.
- Impact on quality of life.
- Loss of income due to inability to work.
- Future financial losses due to the injury.
- Strength of evidence against the at-fault party.
- Degree of negligence.
The at-fault party’s insurance policy’s limits may also play a significant role in the amount of compensation you may be able to pursue. If your losses exceed the limits, the insurance company does not have to cover the difference. If that were to occur, your attorney could help you explore other options for further compensation.
Speak with our experienced Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers to receive an estimate of your case’s potential value and gain a better understanding of your legal options.
Can I Handle A Claim Without A Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer?
While it’s possible to handle a hit-and-run accident claim on your own, you may wish to work with a lawyer, especially if you don’t have prior legal experience. Availing of representation may be particularly helpful in hit-and-run accident cases, as you may not always be able to pursue compensation from the at-fault party.
If you want to know more about the courses of action available to you, you can discuss your case with our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident attorneys. Just call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
What If The Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers will explore alternative compensation options. This may include utilizing your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and identifying any other potentially liable parties.
What Happens After I File The Claim With My Insurance Company?
Your insurance company will contact you for detailed information regarding the loss and may take a written or recorded statement. An examination under oath can sometimes be requested. As part of the investigation, authorities may reach out to other drivers and witnesses. If you have medical payments or an uninsured motorist claim, you’ll need to provide documentation of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
Our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyers are here to guide you through this process, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we handle your claim.
What Happens If The Police Catch The Driver?
When the police catch a hit-and-run driver, the victim will be informed. At that point, the victim can file a claim with the driver’s liability insurance or pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Depending on the case’s circumstances, the victim may be able to seek damages for lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage. Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident attorneys can work closely with law enforcement and take swift action once the driver is identified.
Hurt in a Hit-And-Run Accident?
Hit-And-Run Laws
Most regulations require parties involved in an accident to stay on the scene, regardless of who is at fault. Leaving the scene without exchanging information or reporting the incident may constitute a hit-and-run offense. If a vehicle hits another vehicle without any occupants and causes property damage, the driver must do the following to comply with the California Vehicle Code:
- Stop at the nearest safe location that won’t obstruct traffic or endanger others.
- Locate and inform the property owner, providing their driver’s license, vehicle registration, and address.
- Leave a written notice in a visible spot with their name, address, and a brief explanation of the incident if the owner cannot be found.
If the accident causes injury or death to another person, California law mandates that the driver must:
- Immediately stop at the scene of the accident.
- Provide identification and insurance information.
- Assist anyone in need of medical attention.
- Report the incident to law enforcement without delay.
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, our experienced Moreno Valley hit-and-run lawyers are here to help you decide what to do next.
Typical Reasons Why Some Drivers Leave After An Accident
Drivers may flee the scene of an accident for various reasons, each adding complexity to hit-and-run cases. Here are some of the primary reasons drivers may choose to leave:
- Insufficient Insurance — Uninsured or underinsured drivers may panic at the thought of facing significant financial and legal consequences of the collision.
- Impairment — Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol often flee to avoid driving under the influence (DUI) charges.
- Panic or Distress — The shock and emotional stress following an accident can lead some drivers to make irrational decisions. These include fleeing the scene in an attempt to escape the overwhelming situation.
- Illegal Activity — Drivers who operate stolen or unauthorized vehicles may flee to avoid getting caught for illegal possession, theft, or other criminal activities tied to the vehicle.
- Outstanding Warrants — Individuals with active arrest warrants or unresolved legal issues may leave the scene to evade arrest and avoid further complications with the law.
In some cases, a driver may be unaware of a collision or convince themselves that the accident was too minor for them to pull over. However, the circumstances don’t matter; leaving the scene of a crash is always against the law.
Our knowledgeable and experienced hit-and-run accident lawyers in Moreno Valley are here to support victims and their families during this trying time. Our team can help uphold your rights and represent you in court if a trial becomes necessary. Contact us for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
How Our Lawyers Prove Liability In A Hit-And-Run Accident Claim
Our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident attorneys can employ several strategies to help prove that the driver responsible for your accident may have acted negligently. To establish negligence, we will work to demonstrate its four essential elements:
- Duty of Care — Drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles responsibly, follow traffic laws, and ensure the safety of others. We may be able to prove this element by showing that the driver was operating the vehicle at the time of the accident, confirming their responsibility to drive safely.
- Breach of Duty — A breach occurs when a driver fails to act responsibly or violates traffic laws, putting others at risk. These can include behaviors such as speeding, texting while driving, running a stop sign, or driving under the influence. Additionally, neglecting vehicle maintenance, such as ignoring faulty brakes, can also constitute a breach of duty.
- Causation — We must demonstrate that the driver’s careless actions, or lack thereof, directly caused or contributed to the accident that led to your injuries. Evidence such as police reports, security camera footage, eyewitness accounts, and accident reconstruction experts can help establish this connection.
- Damages — We also have to prove that you suffered actual harm as a result of the accident. This can include physical injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress. Without evidence of damages, you won’t be able to pursue compensation. Medical records, repair estimates, and documentation of lost income can support this claim.
Evidence Often Used In Hit-And-Run Accident Claims
Proving negligence in a hit-and-run requires solid evidence. Experienced car accident lawyers typically rely on the following key pieces of evidence:
- Statements from eyewitnesses.
- Crash site images.
- Physical evidence (e.g., tire skid marks, paint chips, etc.).
- Opinions of expert witnesses.
- Police report.
- Documentation from first responders.
- Medical records.
- Victim’s recovery journal.
Gathering the right evidence is critical to building a well-supported case. Our experienced Moreno Valley hit-and-run attorneys know what to look for and how to leverage the available evidence when pursuing compensation. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation, and let us assist you with your case.
Damages You Can Seek After A Hit-and-Run Accident
A vehicle accident can potentially lead to severe injuries. These can range from soft tissue damage and broken bones to more life-altering conditions like traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord damage. In addition to physical harm, victims may also experience psychological trauma, such as PTSD and anxiety. Treating these injuries can be expensive, and recovery can take months or even years.
Under California law, victims have the right to file a claim for their losses after an accident caused by negligence. Depending on your case’s circumstances, our lawyers for hit-and-run accidents in Moreno Valley may be able to help you pursue damages for:
- Medical Expenses — Covers emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing treatments, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy.
- Lost Wages — Compensates for income lost during the process of healing. If the injuries lead to disability, we can also calculate reduced earning capacity or loss of future earnings.
- Property Damage — Reimburses the cost of vehicle repairs or replacement and compensation for damaged personal items.
- Pain and Suffering — Provides compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, PTSD, and diminished quality of life.
- Permanent Disability & Disfigurement — Financial support for life-altering injuries that affect mobility, independence, or physical appearance.
- Loss of Consortium — Compensates for the injury’s impact on relationships and family life, including loss of companionship and support.
In rare cases, courts may award punitive damages if there is clear evidence of intentional harm or gross negligence. These damages aim to punish the at-fault party for their reckless actions and serve as a deterrent to prevent similar behavior in the future.
Wrongful Death Claims For A Hit-And-Run Fatality
The surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim if a hit-and-run accident results in the untimely passing of a loved one. Under California law, this claim allows eligible family members, such as spouses, children, or dependents, to seek compensation for their losses. These can include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.
Alternatively, the victim’s estate may file a survival action to pursue damages the victim could have claimed if they had survived. This claim seeks compensation for the victim’s pain, suffering, medical expenses, and other losses incurred between the accident and their death.
A wrongful death claim and a survival action serve distinct purposes. Our Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident attorneys may be able to help a victim’s surviving relatives pursue both claims simultaneously.
Potential Options For Pursuing Compensation After A Hit-And-Run
There are plenty of different forms of auto insurance and policy add-ons in California. Some policies may assist in providing compensation following a hit-and-run incident. These may include:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance — UM/UIM coverage is an add-on to your policy. It can help compensate you if an uninsured driver strikes you. In other cases, it may increase the money available to you if the offending driver’s insurance cannot fully compensate for your losses.
- Collision or Comprehensive Insurance — Your insurance should cover any damage to your vehicle, but it may not extend to your other losses. Comprehensive insurance is usually an add-on to your base policy that covers non-collision events.
- Medical Payments Coverage — MedPay is an optional add-on that provides coverage for medical expenses after car accidents, regardless of who is at fault. You can still submit a claim following a hit-and-run incident.
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
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Accident
In a hit-and-run accident, taking certain steps can ensure your safety and potentially help you pursue compensation in the future. These may include actions like the following:
- Check for Injuries — Assess whether you, your loved ones, or anyone involved in the accident requires medical treatment.
- Call for Help — Call 911 and ask for emergency assistance. Make sure to inform the operator about the nature of the accident and the number of injured victims.
- Cooperate With the Authorities — Once authorities are at the scene, provide them with all relevant details. Offer as much information as possible about the hit-and-run driver or their vehicle, such as the make, model, color, or any distinguishing features. This information can be crucial in identifying the driver and aiding in the investigation.
- Collect Additional Evidence — Gather necessary information, like pictures of the scene and testimonies from witnesses. Obtain the contact information of witnesses, as you may need to reach out to them later for further details.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention — It’s crucial to seek medical evaluation right away to identify any underlying injuries, even if you don’t feel immediate pain. Prompt care prevents potential complications and ensures that your injuries get documented. Your medical records will also serve as essential evidence to support your claim.
- Document Expenses — Keep track of medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and other expenses incurred due to the accident.
- Reach Out to Experienced Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers in Moreno Valley — Experienced Moreno Valley accident lawyers can guide you through the claims process. If you have a valid claim, they can also collaborate with law enforcement to gather the necessary evidence for your case and assist in identifying the hit-and-run driver on your behalf.
Deadline For Filing A Hit-And-Run Accident Claim In California
The statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. In hit-and-run cases that resulted in injuries, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a case. If the accident results in a fatality, however, the statute of limitations starts on the date of the victim’s death.
For cases involving property damage, the time limit would be three years. Some exceptions may change this deadline, such as:
- Delayed Discovery of Injuries — There are cases where victims don’t discover their injuries until later. In this scenario, the statute of limitations will start at the date of discovery of injuries.
- Victim’s Age at the Time of the Accident — For victims who are minors, the time limit to file a case won’t start until they are 18 years old. However, their parents or legal guardians can file on their behalf even before they reach legal age.
If the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified for an extended period, you may consider filing a John Doe lawsuit. This legal procedure allows you to preserve your right to pursue a case while the identification of the at-fault party is still in progress. Once the driver gets identified, you can amend the lawsuit to include their name and proceed with your claim.
When it comes to these claims, time is crucial. Contact us for a free initial consultation so you can learn about which deadlines apply to your case. If you have a valid claim, we can also help you file it within the statute of limitations.
Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics
Moreno Valley has several roads, highways, and freeways that are prone to accidents. Major routes like the 60 Freeway, the Ramona Expressway, and the I-215 can be risky. One of the most pressing concerns stemming from these dangerous roads is the alarming rate of hit-and-run accidents.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,932 people lost their lives in hit-and-run crashes in 2022, marking a 0.5% increase from the previous year. Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable in hit-and-run accidents. According to the same NHTSA data, hit-and-runs caused 1,910 pedestrian deaths, making up 25% of all pedestrian fatalities. Additionally, 265 cyclist deaths, or 24% of all cycling-related fatalities, also involved hit-and-run incidents.
In Moreno Valley alone, there were 86 hit-and-run crashes in 2022, as per the California Office of Traffic Safety. On a national scale, pedestrian deaths in these incidents rose by 4.3%, with 79 additional fatalities recorded. Cyclist fatalities saw an even more concerning 18% increase, with 40 more lives lost compared to the previous year.
If a hit-and-run accident has injured you or a loved one, you don’t have to navigate this challenge by yourself. A skilled Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident lawyer can help you explore your available options for pursuing compensation. Contact our Moreno Valley injury law firm at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Seek Help From Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers In Moreno Valley
If you or a loved one sustained injuries after a hit-and-run accident, our attorneys can help you with your case. Our experienced Moreno Valley hit-and-run accident attorneys can assist you in pursuing compensation that you may be eligible for. We have the resources to handle your case without requiring you to pay our attorneys up front. If you sign on as one of our clients, you’ll only pay attorney fees if you’re awarded compensation. Before handling your claim, our lawyers will review our payment agreement with you to explain any other case-related costs you may be charged.
While navigating the insurance claims process can be challenging, our team can communicate with the insurers involved in your case and negotiate with them on your behalf. If an appropriate settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys can study whether it will be feasible to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. You can schedule a free first case review by calling our office at (888) 488-1391 or filling out our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
We serve clients throughout California, including in Moreno Valley and nearby areas. These include Loma Linda, Grand Terrace, Redlands, Riverside, Colton, Perris, Jurupa Valley, San Bernardino, Yucaipa, Bloomington, Pedley, Beaumont, and Glen Avon. No matter where you are in the region, our team is here to help.
Experienced in a broad range of personal injury claims, we handle everything from car crashes to truck collisions. We can bring that experience to your case. Feel free to reach out so we can discuss your accident.
