Pasadena Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers

with over $500 Million Recovered in Compensation for Injury Clients.

Recover Lost Wages, Property Damages, and Medical Fees.

We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.

Table of Contents

Pasadena Hit-and-Run Statistics
Elements of a Hit-and-Run Crime
Legal Consequences of California Vehicle Code § 20002 Violations
Other Consequences of Violating California Vehicle Code § 20002
Statute of Limitations for Hit-and-Run Cases
Investigating Hit-and-Run Accidents in Pasadena
What Happens if You Cannot Identify a Hit-and-Run Driver?

Pasadena Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers with the Experience And Knowledge When You Need It Most

Hit-and-run accidents can disrupt the peace of Pasadena’s streets, leaving victims in a painful and uncertain state. Since we founded our firm in 2009, Arash Law has fought for justice on behalf of such victims. The Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers at our firm have successfully recovered more than $500 million for our California clients.

Reach out to us at (888) 488-1391 if you or someone you love has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in the City of Roses. We have a track record that speaks for itself.

Pasadena is a city in California that may be best known for hosting the annual Tournament of Roses parade on New Year’s Day (or Monday, January 2, when New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday). The accompanying Rose Bowl college football bowl game played at the Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena. Pasadena is in Los Angeles County, only 11 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles.

The Foothill Freeway, which has Interstate 210 (I-210) on its western end and State Route 210 (SR-210) on its eastern end, is better known as Route 210 and passes through Pasadena. The city is located in the San Gabriel Valley (SGV). It has the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, the San Rafael Hills to the west, the Los Angeles Basin, the Crescenta Valley to the northwest, Puente Hills to the south, and Chino Hills and San Jose Hills to the east, as well as the city limits of Los Angeles on the western edge.

The 2020 United States Census reported that Pasadena had a population of 135,732 as of July 1, 2021, and the population was 51.2 percent female, with 18.0 percent of people being 18 years of age or younger, 16.1 percent being 65 years of age or older, and 6.0 percent being 5 years of age or younger. Among the Pasadena population, 36.1 percent of residents were Hispanic or Latino, 33.8 percent were white alone (not Hispanic or Latino), 17.9 percent were Asian alone, 10.0 percent were two or more races, and 7.8 percent were Black or African American alone.

The mean travel time to work for Pasadena residents was 28.4 minutes from 2017 to 2021. During those same years, 66.6 percent of residents were in the civilian labor force.

Many people all over Pasadena drive to get to and from destinations, and there is always the possibility that a person may be involved in a hit-and-run accident in which one driver flees the scene of a crash without exchanging information. A hit-and-run is a criminal offense in California, and people who suffer injuries in these crashes should be sure to retain legal counsel immediately.

Founded by famous attorney Arash Khorsandi, Esq., Arash Law has experience in helping the victims of hit-and-run crashes who are seeking financial compensation for their losses. We understand what needs to be done in these cases and help people get answers to their most pressing issues.

For example, many people have no idea who the hit-and-run driver was who caused their accident, but our firm can conduct a diligent independent investigation to determine a driver’s identity and help bring them to justice. We can help you get back on your feet and regain your life.

Arash Law, managed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has more than three decades of legal experience, and we have recovered more than $500 million for our clients. Better yet, we handle every case on a No-Win, No-Fee guarantee, which means that you will not have to worry about paying us anything unless we win or settle your case.

One of our cases involved a crossing guard struck by a motor vehicle who suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). We recovered $1.075 million for this client through a settlement.

Our firm understands that hiring a good Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyer can be a challenging process for many people, but we will do our best to help you understand what we can offer as soon as we meet with you. You should also know that we are willing to come to you in your home or hospital room when you cannot make it to our local Pasadena office.

Arash Law, spearheaded by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., can take the lead in your personal injury case and deal with all the court requirements, so you have absolutely nothing to worry about. We work very hard to please our clients, and we will do whatever it takes to ensure that you can recover every single dollar that is available to you.

Car Accident

$4,100,000.00

A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.

– ARASH KHORSANDI

Pasadena Hit-and-Run Statistics

The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported that Pasadena had 647 fatal and injury crashes in 2020. The total was the 22nd highest out of 61 locations.

OTS also reported that 45 of the crashes involved bicyclists, 45 involved pedestrians (two of whom were less than 15 years of age and nine of whom were more than 65 years of age), and 24 involved motorcycles. There were also 141 crashes resulting in driving under the influence (DUI) arrests, with 53 crashes being described as alcohol-involved, three crashes involving drinking drivers under 21 years of age, and 16 crashes involving drinking drivers between 21 and 34 years of age.

According to the Transportation Injury Mapping System from the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley), Pasadena had 606 total crashes in 2020 that resulted in eight deaths and 843 injuries. The total included 42 pedestrian crashes, 44 bicycle crashes, and 31 motorcycle crashes.

By severity, seven crashes were fatal, 34 caused severe injuries, 207 resulted in other visible injuries, and 358 involved complaints of pain. The primary crash factors in these cases were unsafe speeds in 180 (29.95 percent), traffic signals and signs in 102 (16.97 percent), improper turning in 87 (14.48 percent), automobile right of way issues in 83 (13.81 percent), driving or bicycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs in 26 (4.33 percent), unknown causes in 18 (3.00 percent), and unsafe starting or backing in 10 (1.66 percent).

If you suffer serious injuries or your loved one is killed in a Pasadena hit-and-run accident relating to another party’s failure to act in a reasonable and careful manner, you can be facing several kinds of expenses and losses. It may be possible for you to recover most (if not all) of these expenses through a personal injury lawsuit, and the Pasadena personal injury recovery team at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., will be ready to help you in whatever ways we can.

Defining Hit-and-Run Accidents and How They Happen

California Vehicle Code § 20002 is the state misdemeanor hit-and-run law, while California Vehicle Code § 20001 is both a misdemeanor and a felony statute. Both laws state that a person involved in an accident must immediately stop their vehicle at the nearest location that does not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.

Drivers do not always stop at crash scenes for a variety of possible reasons. When it comes to hit-and-run crimes, there is usually a belief that the driver did not stop because they were fearful of dealing with the police.

This fear is often the case when a driver is:

Uninsured
Driving drunk or under the influence of drugs
Driving without a license
Driving with a suspended license

Afraid of losing their license because of past traffic citations
Driving a stolen or borrowed vehicle
In possession of stolen property or drugs

Understanding the intricacies of hit-and-run accidents in Pasadena is crucial to building a compelling case. While reasons for fleeing the scene can vary, victims are left bearing the weight of the aftermath. If you or a loved one has been at the receiving end of such negligence, it’s vital to align with a legal team deeply familiar with California’s Vehicle Codes and the motivations behind these crimes. At Arash Law, our Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers don’t just know the law; they champion victims’ rights passionately and precisely. Secure the expertise of a firm that’s won over $500 million for Californians since 2009. Call us at (888) 488-1391 and let us navigate the complexities while you focus on healing.

Understanding California Vehicle Code § 20001

Under California Vehicle Code § 20001, the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident causing injury to a person or the death of a person must immediately stop their vehicle at the scene of the accident and fulfill the requirements of California Vehicle Code § 20003 and California Vehicle Code § 20004. Violating this statute can lead to felony charges.

California Vehicle Code § 20003 requires the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person to give their name, current residence address, and the names and current residence addresses of any occupant of their vehicle injured in the accident, the registration number of the vehicle they are driving, and the name and current residence address of the owner to the person struck, or the driver or occupants of any vehicle collided with. They must also give this information to any traffic or police officer at the scene of an accident.

The statute also requires a driver to render to any person injured in the accident reasonable assistance, including transporting or making arrangements for transporting any injured person to a physician, surgeon, or hospital for medical or surgical treatment if it is apparent that treatment is necessary or if that transportation is requested by any injured person. California Vehicle Code § 20004 establishes that the death of any person in an accident means the driver of any vehicle involved must fulfill the requirements of this division, and when there is no traffic or police officer at the scene of the accident to whom to give the information required by California Vehicle Code § 20003, they must without delay report the accident to the nearest office of the Department of the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or office of a duly authorized police authority and submit with the report the information required by California Vehicle Code § 20003.

It is important to comply with these requirements because a misdemeanor hit-and-run in California is punishable by up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. A felony crime is punishable by up to four years in state prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

We Have 880+ Real Client Reviews Verified by Google With An Average 4.8 Rating

Play

My husband had an accident 2 years ago, a 85 years old man hit him, the Arash law group works very well on my husband case that took 9 month and he won the case and my husband was happy with the results. A year later I got into an accident as well and I’m still waiting in my case is almost resolving and it’s 9 months already. This people knows the law and they do their job right to help you out in getting the most for you to fight on your behalf. I strongly recommend the Arash Law firm they do things right in a efficient and professional manner.

Had a great experience with all the people at Arash law. Long story short was in a bad car accident. It was overwhelming and the whole process was a lot, but they kept me in the loop. They answered all my questions and gave me great advice. Couldn't be any happier. Would definitely recommend anyone looking for a personal injury lawyer. They'll guide you through the whole process!

Having Arash Law handle my auto accident was the best decision I could have made. Everyone I interacted with was kind, professional and detail oriented. I am extremely happy with the outcome and would recommend them highly.

From start to finish, Arash Law firm is there every step of the way with close, constant, personal contact and attention. I never knew a Law firm could actually care so much for me as a person and what I was personally going through as well as the settlement I was going to recieve once my case was finally completed. Thank you to everyone at Arash Law for your ongoing support and communication. You are the ONLY firm I will ever recommend to someone who is need of a great attorny.

I had an excellent experience with Arash Law. I will definitely recommend to my family and friends. I interviewed a few firms before deciding to work with Arash Law. What made my experience excellent was (i.e. head attorney being accessible to talk to and he answered all my questions and concerns, sensitive and thorough personel who completed in home intake & follow up process, being connected immediately to quality Physicians who addressed my injuries and recovery process, clear contract-read throughly to ensure its something you can commit to). Being in a car accident is a traumatic experience and I had a sense of peace knowing Arash Firm was walking with me throughout the whole process. Thank you Arash Firm for all your hard work and help. I am so grateful and appreciative for you all! 🙏 With Gratitude, Monica Parra

Elements of a Hit-and-Run Crime

When a person is charged with violating California hit-and-run laws under California Vehicle Code § 20001, California Vehicle Code § 20003, or California Vehicle Code § 20004, a prosecutor for the state is going to have to prove all of the requirements listed in the Judicial Council of California Criminal Jury Instructions (CALCRIM) No. 2140.

According to this document, a person will be charged with failing to perform a legal duty following a vehicle accident that caused death or permanent injury to another person in violation of one of the aforementioned statutes. To prove that a person is guilty of this crime, the state must prove that:

While driving, the alleged offender was involved in a vehicle accident.
The accident caused the death of or permanent, serious injury to someone else.
The alleged offender knew that they had been involved in an accident that injured another person or knew from the nature of the accident that it was probable that another person had suffered an injury.
The alleged offender willfully failed to perform one or more of the following duties:
- To immediately stop at the scene of the accident
- To provide reasonable assistance to any person injured in the accident.
- To give to the person struck, or the driver or occupants of any vehicle collided with, or any peace officer at the scene of the accident, all of the following information:
  - The alleged offender’s name and current residence address
  - The registration number of the vehicle they were driving
  - The name and current residence address of the owner of the vehicle if the alleged offender is not the owner
  - The names and current residence addresses of any occupants of the alleged offender’s vehicle who suffered an injury in the accident
- When requested, show their driver’s license, if available, to the person struck, the driver or occupants of any vehicle collided with, or any peace officer at the scene of the accident.
- Without unnecessary delay, notify either the police department of the city where the accident happened or the local headquarters of the CHP if the accident happened in an unincorporated area.

Someone commits an act willfully when they do it willingly or on purpose. It is not required that they intend to break the law, hurt someone else, or gain any advantage.

The duty to stop immediately means that the driver must stop their vehicle as soon as reasonably possible under the circumstances. To provide reasonable assistance, the driver must determine what assistance, if any, the injured person needs and make a reasonable effort to see that such assistance is provided, either by the driver or someone else.

Reasonable assistance includes transporting anyone who has suffered an injury for medical treatment or arranging transportation for such treatment if it is apparent that treatment is necessary or if an injured person requests transportation. The driver is not required to provide assistance that is unnecessary or that is already being provided by someone else.

However, the requirement that the driver provide assistance is not excused merely because bystanders are on the scene or can provide assistance. The driver of a vehicle must perform the duties listed regardless of who suffered an injury and regardless of how or why the accident happened. It does not matter if someone else caused the accident or if the accident was unavoidable.

Legal Consequences of California Vehicle Code § 20001 Violations

California Vehicle Code § 20001 is known as a wobbler offense, which means it may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Numerous factors can dictate whether a prosecutor will seek felony charges, including the seriousness of the injuries involved in an accident, the alleged offender’s previous criminal record, and the specific circumstances surrounding the accident.

Again, a misdemeanor hit-and-run in California is punishable by up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, as well as two points being added to a person’s California driving record. Felony offenses are punishable by up to four years in state prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both, as well as two points being added to a person’s California driving record.

Certain felony charges can be reduced through California Penal Code § 17b, which allows wobbler offenses to be reduced from felonies to misdemeanors. A court will determine whether to grant a reduction based on an alleged offender’s prior criminal record, behavior while under court supervision, the nature of the alleged offense, and any other mitigating or aggravating factors in the case.

Grasping the legal nuances of California Vehicle Code § 20001 is essential for anyone entangled in a hit-and-run case. The line between misdemeanor and felony charges can be razor-thin, depending on a myriad of factors. When you’re up against such complexities, having an ally well-versed in every facet of this complex offense is crucial.

At Arash Law, our Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers have the expertise to navigate these intricate legal waters, ensuring your rights are safeguarded. With a track record of recovering over $500 million for clients across California, you can trust our proficiency and dedication. Call us at (888) 488-1391, and together, we’ll pursue the justice you deserve.

Possible California Vehicle Code § 20001 Defense

Even when apprehended, some hit-and-run drivers would try to get out of getting punished for their wrongdoing. Some of the most common defenses that are commonly used in these cases include, but are not limited to:

The alleged offender did not know – When a person did not know they had been involved in an accident or was not aware anybody had suffered an injury, they may not be convicted of any crime. A defense lawyer may claim a person did not know they had caused a severe collision resulting in death or injury since their vehicle was not directly involved in the accident. A person may also argue this defense when they were aware they had been in an accident but reasonably believed there were no injuries.
The alleged offender did not willfully leave the scene – A person can argue that they did not leave the accident scene intentionally. They might say that it was not safe to stay there or that they had another emergency that required them to leave immediately.
The alleged offender was the only person to suffer injuries – Again, a person’s legal obligation only comes into play when another person suffers injuries. When an alleged offender is the only party who sustained injuries after an accident, they cannot be found guilty of a California Vehicle Code § 20001 violation.
The alleged offender was not the driver involved – Many people involved in hit-and-run accidents describe alleged offenders based on momentary glimpses of the offending vehicles. Descriptions are not always completely accurate, so it is always possible that the wrong person might be taken into custody.
The accident caused no injuries – A person is only guilty of a California Vehicle Code § 20001 violation if they failed to pull over after an accident in which the person involved caused death or injury to another person. While it is a defense to prove a person fled the scene after a road crash involving no death or injury, they can still be convicted of a California Vehicle Code § 20002 violation if they fled the scene of an accident where the property was damaged.

Plenty of hit-and-run drivers use these excuses as a get-out-of-jail card, but that should not absolve them of the offense. They should still be held accountable for the accident they caused. Trusted Pasadena hit & run accident lawyers will help you navigate the process of getting the right compensation for you.

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a hit-and-run accident caused by a negligent driver, reach out to Arash Law. Under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our esteemed Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers will work in your best interest. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation.

Legal Consequences of California Vehicle Code § 20002 Violations

California Vehicle Code § 20002 is the misdemeanor hit-and-run law that applies to crashes involving only property damage. The law states that the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to property must immediately stop their vehicle at the nearest location that will not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.

A driver must also immediately do either of the following:

Locate and notify the owner or person in charge of the property of the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle involved and, upon locating the driver of any other vehicle involved or the owner or person in charge of any damaged property, upon being requested, present their driver’s license and vehicle registration to the other driver, property owner, or person in charge of that property.
The information presented must include the current residence address of the driver and the registered owner. If a registered owner of an involved vehicle is present at the scene, they must also, upon request, present their driver’s license information, if available, or other valid identification to the other involved parties.
Leave in a conspicuous place on the vehicle or other property damaged a written notice giving the name and address of the driver and of the owner of the vehicle involved and a statement of the circumstances thereof, and shall, without unnecessary delay, notify the police department of the city wherein the collision occurred or, if the collision occurred in the unincorporated territory, the local headquarters of the Department of the CHP.

If a person is not the actual owner of an automobile they are operating, they are supposed to give the identifying information about the actual owner. If a person strikes a parked vehicle or any other kind of property, causing damage, they are required to try to find and inform the owner of that property.

If a person cannot locate the owner, they are required to write and stick a note on the automobile or other property damaged, then contact the police to notify them about the accident. The note should include a person’s name, information describing the crash, and an address.

One prevalent instance of misdemeanor hit-and-run crimes occurs in cases where people involved in fender benders on the streets immediately speed off from the sites of the crashes. Another instance involves people knocking down fences in front of another person’s house and then quickly leaving the scene.

California Vehicle Code § 20002 does not require a person to provide insurance information, but California Vehicle Code § 16025 does oblige doing so. Failure to give insurance information will be considered an infraction punishable by a fine of $250.

Elements of California Vehicle Code § 20002 Violations

When a person is charged with violating California hit-and-run laws under California Vehicle Code § 20002, a prosecutor for the state is going to have to prove all of the requirements listed in Judicial Council of California Criminal Jury Instructions (CALCRIM) No. 2150.

According to this document, a person will be charged with failing to perform a legal duty following a vehicle accident that caused property damage in violation of California Vehicle Code § 20002. To prove that a person is guilty of this crime, the state must prove that:

While driving, the alleged offender was involved in a vehicle accident.
The accident caused damage to another person’s property.
The alleged offender knew that they had been involved in an accident that caused property damage or knew from the nature of the accident that it was probable that property had been damaged.
The alleged offender willfully failed to perform one or more of the following duties:

To immediately stop at the scene of the accident.
To immediately provide the owner or person in control of the damaged property with their name and current residence address and the name and address of the owner of the vehicle the alleged offender was driving

A driver of a vehicle can provide the required information in one of two ways:

The driver may locate the owner or person in control of the damaged property and give that person the information directly. On request, the driver must also show that person their driver’s license and vehicle registration.
The driver can leave the required information in a written note in a conspicuous place on the vehicle or other damaged property. The driver must then also, without unnecessary delay, notify either the police department of the city where the accident happened or the local headquarters of the CHP if the accident happened in an unincorporated area.

Other Consequences of Violating California Vehicle Code § 20002

Since California Vehicle Code § 20002 is the state misdemeanor hit-and-run law, a person often faces misdemeanor charges for a violation. Legal punishments for a conviction can include a six-month jail sentence and a $1,000 fine.

Based on a person’s prior criminal record, they may be sentenced to probation for up to three years and be required to do community service. When a person causes a collision, the court will order them to pay restitution to the property owner for the damage they did to the property.

A conviction will also come with two points added to the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record, increasing auto insurance rates. In many cases, a first-time offense with no alcoholic beverages involved can lead to a civil compromise under California Penal Code § 1377, which allows judges to dismiss certain misdemeanor charges when an alleged offender fully reimburses a victim for their losses.

For victims grappling with the aftermath of incidents involving violations of California Vehicle Code § 20002, understanding the intricate consequences is just the beginning of the journey to justice. Emotional, physical, and financial strain can feel insurmountable. At Arash Law, we stand by the side of such victims, offering both a voice and a guiding hand.

As specialized Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers, we aim to ensure those wronged receive the justice and compensation they deserve. With a formidable track record of over $500 million won for our California clients, our commitment to victims is unwavering. Contact us at (888) 488-1391, and let’s begin your recovery journey together.

Possible California Vehicle Code § 20002 Defenses Hit and Run Victims Should Be Aware Of

Instead of owning up to their misdeeds, some hit-and-run drivers would go out of their way to justify their mistakes. Some of the most common defenses used by the at-fault party in these cases include:

The alleged offender did not know – When a person did not know they had been involved in an accident or were not aware any property was damaged, they may not be convicted of any crime. A lawyer may claim a person did not know they had caused a severe collision resulting in property damage since their vehicle was not directly involved in the accident. A person may also argue this defense when they were aware they had been in an accident but reasonably believed there was no property damage.
The alleged offender was not driving – A district attorney must also prove an alleged offender was the actual motorist of the automobile involved in the crash. Just because a person is a vehicle’s registered owner does not mean they were the person operating the vehicle at the time of the accident. A person may have loaned a vehicle to an acquaintance to run errands. Or another person might have accessed a car and taken it without the owner’s knowledge.
The alleged offender’s vehicle was the only property damaged – If the damage was only to a person’s automobile and no one else’s property was damaged, a person can not be criminally liable under California Vehicle Code § 20002.

Retaining an experienced Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyer can make dealing with the legal process a much easier process. They can help you file a claim, connect you to highly-skilled medical practitioners, and stay with you until you receive the compensation you deserve.

Play

Franchot M.

$610,000

Personal Injury Settlement

Our client was the victim of a rear-end accident who was left injured and severely in pain. Arash Law was able to outshine other injury law firms when he searched online, and thankfully we were able to handle everything for our client from A to Z — All that he had to do was ask and focus on his recovery. Our client’s life has changed forever, and the compensation received for the pain and suffering has opened paths for new lifelong opportunities.

Personal Injury Settlement

Statute of Limitations for Victims of Hit & Runs

Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, a person has only two years to file an action for injury to or the death of a person resulting from the wrongful act or neglect of another party. However, California Code of Civil Procedure § 338 establishes that a person has three years to commence an action to recover for physical damage to private property.

One major exception to the general statute of limitations is the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA), which is a law that protects state government agencies from liability in certain personal injury cases. The law found in California Government Code §§ 810-996.6 establishes sovereign immunity for most agencies and states that a person must file a claim with a governmental entity within six months of the date of an accident for personal injury, wrongful death, or property damage claims.

When you are filing a claim with a local government entity or employee, you can file your claim directly with an entity’s governing board or clerk. Most departments and agencies will have their own claim forms.

If a claim concerns California agencies and employees, you file your claim with the Office of Risk Management in the California Department of General Services. If an agency does not have a claim form, then you will have to draft your own.

A written claim needs to include your name and address, the address at which you would like to receive notices, the date, location, and circumstances surrounding your claim, a description of your injuries and damages, the name of the employee causing the injury when known, the dollar amount you are claiming, and how that figure was calculated when you are asking for less than $10,000. If you are seeking more than $10,000, you must indicate whether a lawsuit will be a limited case, meaning less than $25,000 and not asking for non-monetary relief, or an unlimited case for more than $25,000 that seeks non-monetary relief.

Personal injury claims only have two years in California, and property damage claims have three years. Other exceptions do exist that increase your filing time in some cases.

Some of the other most common kinds of exceptions in personal injury claims include:

Wrongful death – While a wrongful death lawsuit also has a two-year statute of limitations, the limitation period will not begin until the date of the death of a person. The date of death can be much later than the date of an accident causing their injuries.
Injuries to minors – When a child under 18 years of age suffers injuries in an accident, the two-year statute of limitations will not begin to run until the child reaches the age of majority, meaning 18 in California. That child will have until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit.
Defendant unavailable – When a negligent party leaves the state, is in prison, or is found to be insane, then the statute of limitations may be tolled (delayed) until they return to the state, are released from prison, or become sane again.
Lack of mental capacity – The statute of limitations can involve tolling for victims who do not have the mental capacity to take legal action. In other words, a victim who is in a coma can file a lawsuit once they regain consciousness. The same holds true for all other situations in which a victim happens to be incapacitated.
Defendant bankruptcy – When a negligent party files for bankruptcy, the court will assume they do not have the money to pay any judgment against them, and a civil action can again get tolling until the negligent party’s bankruptcy proceedings are complete.
Plaintiff is performing military service – When a victim happens to be a member of the United States Armed Forces engaged in active duty, their claim can get tolling for the duration of their time in the military.
Plaintiff dies within six months of end of statute of limitations – If a plaintiff happens to die within six months of the conclusion of their statute of limitations, their personal representative will have six months to commence legal action on their behalf.

Time is of the essence when seeking justice for hit-and-run cases in Pasadena. With various stipulations, from the basic statute of limitations to distinct exceptions, navigating the legal maze can be daunting for victims. Whether it’s the nuances of the California Tort Claims Act, exceptions related to personal injuries, or unique conditions involving minors and military service, understanding each aspect is critical.

As committed Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers, Arash Law is here to untangle these complexities for victims and ensure they act within the required timeframes. Our dedication is reflected in the over $500 million we’ve won for clients throughout California. If you or a loved one is grappling with the aftermath of a hit-and-run, call us at (888) 488-1391. Let’s ensure that time remains on your side and justice is sought promptly.

Crimes Related to Hit-and-Run Charges

A prosecutor in California has the power to charge people with multiple crimes in certain instances. Some of the most common kinds of accompanying crimes people can be accused of may include:

DUI, California Vehicle Code § 23152 – This state law makes it unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage to drive a vehicle, for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood to drive a vehicle, for a person who is addicted to the use of any drug to drive a vehicle, for a person who has 0.04 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood to drive a commercial motor vehicle, for a person who has 0.04 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood to drive a motor vehicle when a passenger for hire is a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the offense, for a person who is under the influence of any drug to drive a vehicle, and for a person who is under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug to drive a vehicle.
Vehicular Manslaughter, California Penal Code § 192(c) – This statute provides that except as provided in California Penal Code § 191.5(a) relating to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, driving a vehicle in the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, and with gross negligence, or driving a vehicle in the commission of a lawful act that might produce death, in an unlawful manner, and with gross negligence constitutes vehicular manslaughter. The crime also applies to driving a vehicle in the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, but without gross negligence, or driving a vehicle in the commission of a lawful act that might produce death in an unlawful manner, but without gross negligence, as well as driving a vehicle in connection with a violation of California Penal Code § 550(a)(3), where the vehicular collision or vehicular accident was knowingly caused for financial gain and proximately resulted in the death of any person.
DUI Causing Physical Harm to Another Person, California Vehicle Code § 23153 – This law makes it unlawful for a person, while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage, to drive a vehicle and concurrently do any act forbidden by law or neglect any duty imposed by law in driving the vehicle, which acts or neglect proximately causes bodily injury to any person other than the driver. It is also unlawful for a person, while having 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood to drive a vehicle and concurrently does any act forbidden by law or neglect any duty imposed by law in driving the vehicle, which act or neglect proximately causes bodily injury to any person other than the driver. It is unlawful for a person while having 0.04 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood to drive a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in Section 15210, and concurrently to do any act forbidden by law or neglect any duty imposed by law in driving the vehicle, which act or neglect proximately causes bodily injury to any person other than the driver. In a prosecution under this subdivision, it is a rebuttable presumption that the person had 0.04 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood at the time of driving the vehicle if the person had 0.04 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in their blood at the time of performance of a chemical test within three hours after driving.
Driving Without a License, California Vehicle Code § 12500 – Under this law, a person cannot drive a motor vehicle unless they hold a valid driver’s license issued under this code, except for people who are expressly exempted under this code. A person cannot drive a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle, unless the person then holds a valid driver’s license or endorsement issued under this code for that class, except those persons who are expressly exempted under this code or those persons specifically authorized to operate motorized bicycles or motorized scooters with a valid driver’s license of any class. A person cannot drive a motor vehicle in or upon any off-street parking facility unless the person then holds a valid driver’s license of the appropriate class or certification to operate the vehicle. A person cannot drive a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles that is not of a type for which the person is licensed.

Resulting Injuries from Pasadena Hit-and-Run Accidents

The main consequence of a hit-and-run accident can often be the injuries that other people suffer, and many people are struggling to pay medical bills or make up for lost income when they suffer serious injuries. Arash Law, under the guidance of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has helped scores of people dealing with all kinds of injuries, including:

Broken bones or fractures – Broken bones are one of the most common injuries in all accident cases, and such injuries can involve several rounds of additional treatment.
Head injuries – There are a wide variety of different head injuries involving trauma to a person’s head, including concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or other kinds of brain damage.
Whiplash – Whiplash is a kind of neck injury that often stems from sudden sharp movements of the neck. People can deal with chronic neck pain for a lengthy period of time.
Spinal cord injuries – Damage to a person’s spinal cord can cause numerous lifelong problems and can also involve possible paralysis in some cases.
Internal organ injuries – Injuries to the organs inside a person are tricky to determine and treat, which emphasizes the need for medical attention as soon as possible after any accident.

There is always the possibility that a hit-and-run accident is fatal. The record-setting Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., help many people file wrongful death actions in these cases.

Motor Vehicle Accident

$3,500,000.00

Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.

– JUDD ROSS ALLEN

Investigating Hit-and-Run Accidents in Pasadena

Locating a hit-and-run driver after an accident can be a challenging process, which is why people will always want to get the local police involved as soon as possible. When an accident is quickly reported, the police department can begin looking for the offending driver in the area and may take them into custody.

Police officers will typically be seeking a description of an offender in these cases, and the information being sought often includes a description of the driver, the make, model, and color of the driver’s car, and the driver’s license plate number. It is far from uncommon for people not to have all this information immediately available.

Should the police locate the driver who hit you, victims can file civil actions against that driver. It becomes important for people to understand the distinction between criminal hit-and-run cases and civil ones.

Whereas a hit-and-run driver’s guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt in a criminal case, their liability only needs to be proven by a preponderance of the evidence in a civil case, meaning more likely than not. This distinction is important because it is always possible that a hit-and-run driver avoids a criminal conviction but is still ordered to pay civil damages, as was the case with former professional football star O.J. Simpson, who was found not guilty of murdering both his wife, Nicole Brown, and her companion, Ronald Goldman, but had a civil jury later find him liable for the wrongful death of Goldman and battery against Brown, ordering him to pay $33.5 million in damages.

If you’ve been in a hit-and-run accident in Pasadena, you might feel lost. Don’t worry; our Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers are here to help. We know Pasadena really well, and we’re good at figuring out these types of cases. The police will help find the person who hit you, but we’ll help you get the money you deserve. If you need help or have questions, call us at (888) 488-1391. Since 2009, we’ve helped people in California get more than $500 million.

We’re here for you after these tough times.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

After a hit-and-run collision, you will want to be sure you take all of the following measures to protect yourself and also document your incident:

Remain where you are – You should never chase another driver, as doing so is not only dangerous but can also undermine your claim.
Call the police to report the accident – Describe your injuries and the vehicle that hit you in as much detail as you can.
Seek medical attention – All people involved in car accidents must always be certain to get prompt medical attention so they can have a complete evaluation performed on their condition, as many injuries involve delayed symptoms.
Write down every detail – Help increase the likelihood of identifying a hit-and-run driver by writing down everything you can remember about their vehicle, including its color, make, model, and license plate number.
Find witnesses – When there were any witnesses to your accident, ask them to write down what they saw and also get their contact information.
Take photographs – Take photos or videos of the damage to your vehicle and the scene of the collision.

In the chaotic aftermath of a hit-and-run accident, clarity and proactive action are paramount. Each step, from resisting the impulse to pursue the fleeing vehicle to diligently documenting every detail, can make a significant difference in seeking justice and compensation. It’s not just about capturing the incident — it’s about empowering yourself in a situation where you feel powerless.

As dedicated Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers, Arash Law understands the weight of these moments. We’ve advocated for countless victims, securing over $500 million for our clients in California. Your actions in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact your case’s trajectory. Reach out to us at (888) 488-1391, and let our expertise turn your diligent actions into a compelling case.

What Happens if You Cannot Identify a Hit-and-Run Driver?

Many people wonder what they can recover if they never identify the hit-and-run driver. The answer will usually depend on the terms of a person’s automobile insurance policy and the laws in their state.

Two common solutions include:

No-fault insurance – California is considered an at-fault state, but people in a no-fault insurance state can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and the cost of replacement services through their own insurance provider in some cases. Such benefits often have limits, depending on the amount of insurance a person has and state laws.
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage – Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) and underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) provide financial compensation for damages caused by drivers who do not have sufficient car insurance. With UM or UIM coverage, unknown at-fault drivers will be considered equivalent to known at-fault drivers without insurance.

Financial Impacts of Hit-and-Run Accidents

The losses people experience because of their accidents are better known as damages, and damages take two forms in California: economic damages and non-economic damages. The three most common kinds of economic damages often include:

Medical expenses – Many people are going to have medical bills to pay because of their accidents, and medical expenses can continually increase throughout a case as a person continues to receive care for their injuries.
Property damage – Many people involved in hit-and-run accidents will have damage to their own motor vehicles or other property. People have a right to seek compensation for property damage.
Lost income – People injured in hit-and-run accidents cannot always return to work right away, and people have the right to seek money to make up for what they lost or will lose because of their accident.

Non-economic damages often relate to certain non-monetary losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of consortium. After a hit-and-run, people aren’t just hurt physically. There’s a big financial hit too. Medical bills start to pile up. Cars need repairs. And if you can’t work because of the accident, you’re losing money every day.

Then there are the personal costs that you can’t put a price on, like pain, stress, and the strain on family ties. At Arash Law, we understand all of this. We’re your Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers who have helped people recover more than $500 million. If you’ve been hurt, call us at (888) 488-1391. We’ll stand up for you, making sure you get the money you deserve.

Why Choose Arash Law?

Under the leadership of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., Arash Law is the best firm for you to choose for your hit-and-run case because we have been handling motor vehicle crash cases all over California for more than 30 years. Our experience means that we will be ideal for helping you determine who your hit-and-run driver was and holding them accountable.

We know how to negotiate fair and full settlements in these cases, but we will never shy away from taking a case to trial when the case justifies it. You can know that we will always do whatever is necessary to deliver financial relief for you.

Contact Our Pasadena Hit-and-Run Lawyer at Arash Law Today

If you are ready to move forward with a hit-and-run civil action to recover damages, you have incurred because of a crash in the greater Pasadena area, call (888) 488-1391 or contact us online to schedule a completely free initial consultation. Your consultation will be obligation-free, meaning you can discuss your case with us without you necessarily having to hire us.

Our firm has served countless communities throughout the greater Pasadena area, including South El Monte, South Pasadena, El Monte, San Marino, Monrovia, Altadena, Glendale, Alhambra, Arcadia, San Gabriel, Rosemead, La Canada Flintridge, Monterey Park, Sierra Madre, and Temple City.

Latest Traffic Reports in California

[01-05-2025] Los Angeles County, CA – Two Killed, Including Wrong-Way Driver, After Multi-Vehicle Crash on Ventura Freeway in Pasadena

[12-29-2024] Los Angeles County, CA – One Dead, Two Injured After Two-Vehicle Collision on 210 Freeway in Pasadena

[11-16-2024] Los Angeles County, CA – 41-Year-Old Man Critically Injured After Two-Car Collision in Pasadena

[10-16-2024] Los Angeles County, CA – 94-Year-Old Man Dies Following Vehicle-Pedestrian Collision in Pasadena

[10-10-2024] Los Angeles County, CA – Bicyclist Critically Injured After Collision with Ford Truck in Pasadena

[10-05-2024] Los Angeles County, CA – Four Injured in Traffic Collision at Fair Oaks Avenue and Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena