Pomona 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 Pomona Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Offer Legal Support When You Need It Most
If you’re injured by a driver who fled the scene, our Pomona hit-and-run accident lawyers are here to review your case. We’ll help you understand your options, guiding you through the process and assisting in identifying the driver. Even if the driver isn’t identified, we are committed to helping you pursue available avenues for compensation. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 and let us know how we can help.
Pomona is a vibrant city in the heart of Los Angeles County. Home to over 151,000 Californians, the city boasts a progressive economy and abundant business opportunities for its residents. Attractions such as Fairplex Park and the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden draw in tourists from all over the state. However, the influx of visitors and the city’s bustling population have increased traffic congestion, resulting in more road crashes, including hit-and-run accidents.
Suffering injuries in any road accident can be distressing, even more so if you don’t know who hit you. When a driver flees the scene, you don’t have to face this alone: we are here to help.
What Our Pomona Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Can Do For Your Claim
Hit-and-run accidents are much more complex than typical car crashes. The striking difference is that you can’t file a case against the driver until they’re identified. You might wonder, “Why would I need a personal injury lawyer if this is the case?” You may need attorneys in Pomona who can guide you, investigate your case, and discuss your possible options.
If the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified, our lawyers can explore other possible avenues for compensation, including uninsured motorist coverage. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers can help manage all communications with your insurance provider, advocating for your rights. If the at-fault driver is eventually identified, we may be able to pursue compensation from their insurer.
In any case, our team of hit-and-run accident attorneys in Pomona will work to advocate for your right to seek a settlement that addresses your losses. While we strive to reach a resolution out of court, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your legal options.
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
Reasons To Work With Our Hit And Run Accident Attorneys
If you have a valid claim, consider working with our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona for the following reasons:
You Pay No Attorney Fees Unless You Collect Compensation
We understand the complications that come with accidents, including financial burdens. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. Under this arrangement, you will not have to pay upfront costs or hourly fees for our services. Instead, you only owe attorney fees if you’re awarded a settlement. Nevertheless, certain case-related expenses may apply regardless of the outcome, and we will discuss this with you before we begin working on your case.
You Will Have An Experienced Legal Team On Your Side
Our lawyers are skilled in practicing personal injury law, with years of combined experience handling hit-and-run accident cases. With our hit-and-run lawyers in Pomona on your side, you will have advocates who can review your case and guide you through your legal options.
You Will Be Kept Informed About The Progress Of Your Case
At Arash Law, we prioritize transparency and open communication. We believe you have every right to be fully informed about the progress of your case and to have your voice heard. Our Pomona hit-and-run attorneys work to address any questions you have about your case and communicate any developments that may arise during the claims process.
What Is A Hit-And-Run Accident?
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver flees the scene without performing their legal duties. The specific requirements set by the law vary depending on the damage the driver caused.
- In accidents resulting in property damage, the driver must stop and exchange information with the other party.
- The driver must leave a note with their name and address if the damaged car’s owner is absent.
- In accidents resulting in injury or death, the driver must stop, render aid, and exchange information.
California’s hit-and-run laws are stringent and leave no room for ambiguity. These regulations are designed to ensure that drivers are held accountable for their actions and to emphasize the critical importance of remaining at the scene to provide aid.
Leaving victims at the accident scene is not only illegal but also incredibly dangerous. Hit-and-run accidents prevent victims from receiving immediate assistance, potentially worsening their conditions. These incidents also hinder their potential right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver in the future.
Hit-and-run cases are taken very seriously due to the potentially severe consequences involved. Penalties range from misdemeanors for property damage to felonies for incidents involving injury or death. Furthermore, even if a driver is not at fault for the accident, they may still be charged with hit-and-run for leaving the scene.
Our accident attorneys in Pomona are well-versed in all areas governing hit-and-run cases, personal injury, and car accidents. They can offer the legal guidance you may need for your case. Our car accident lawyers can gather evidence on your behalf to identify potentially liable parties.
Common Injuries Sustained In Hit-And-Run Accidents
Regardless of the type of vehicle, traffic accidents often lead to a range of injuries. Hit-and-run accidents, in particular, can potentially lead to even greater harm, as the negligent driver’s disregard for the victim’s condition may delay critical medical attention. Below are some of the most common injuries victims sustain in these accidents:
- Head Injuries — Accidents can lead to serious head injuries, ranging from concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Delayed treatment worsens TBIs, increasing the risk of long-term cognitive impairments or other severe complications.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Traffic collisions can result in spinal cord injuries, which may cause paralysis, chronic pain, or reduced mobility. If the driver leaves without providing help, the risk of permanent damage increases, which is likely to impact the victim’s quality of life and ability to recover fully.
- Broken Bones — The impact of a hit-and-run accident may cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and other body parts. A delay in treatment can result in improperly healed bones or complications such as infections, making recovery more difficult and painful.
- Internal Injuries — Blunt force trauma from a hit-and-run can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, which may not be immediately apparent. With prompt medical treatment, the risks associated with these injuries can often be managed or mitigated. However, if left untreated, they can become life-threatening.
These injuries often require extensive medical care, including surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term healing. In hit-and-run cases, the absence of the responsible party can complicate the victim’s case.
Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona can help you seek reimbursement for your medical expenses. We may be able to do so regardless of whether the driver at fault was apprehended.
What If I’m Partly To Blame For The Accident?
The legal concept of comparative negligence acknowledges that multiple parties, including the victim, can be at fault in an accident. In Pomona and California, the pure comparative negligence system applies, allowing you to seek compensation even if you were partly responsible for the incident.
For example, if you were jaywalking when a car hit you, and the driver fled the scene, you could still file a claim for damages. However, if the court determines that you were 40% at fault due to jaywalking, your compensation would be reduced by that percentage. In such a case, you may only be able to pursue 60% of the potential damages.
Our Pomona hit-and-run accident lawyers can help you navigate this situation and work towards a fair assessment of liabilities.
Hurt in a Hit-And-Run Accident?
Damages You Can Seek After A Hit-And-Run Accident
Road accidents can potentially have devastating consequences, turning victims’ lives upside down. Hit-and-run accidents are likely to amplify this trauma, leaving victims not only injured but also uncertain about how they can move forward without identifying the perpetrator.
We are here to help you explore your possible legal options, even if the negligent party remains unidentified and at large. Depending on the details of the case, you may be able to pursue the following damages:
- Economic Damages — These damages include quantifiable losses directly caused by the accident. Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage are examples of economic damages. Our hit-and-run lawyers in Pomona can also pursue compensation for lost potential future earnings if the injury affects your ability to work.
- Non-Economic Damages — These damages address intangible losses that are harder to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. We can assist you in seeking compensation for the emotional and mental toll the accident has taken on you and other areas of your life.
- Punitive Damages — Unlike compensatory damages, punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for grossly negligent or recklessly indifferent actions. Although they are rarely awarded, courts may grant punitive damages to discourage similar behavior in the future.
Even if your injuries from a hit-and-run accident are minor, calculating the full extent of your damages can be a complex process. Our Pomona hit-and-run accident attorneys are here to help you assess your losses and pursue compensation.
Reasons Why Motorists Typically Leave The Scene Of A Crash
Accidents are an unfortunate reality. However, motorists can minimize risks by adhering to traffic regulations. Even after an accident, they must follow the law, which is to stop, provide help, and exchange information. Otherwise, they face legal consequences.
Nevertheless, many drivers still choose to flee. Here are some common reasons motorists leave the accident scene:
Panic And Shock
Being injured in an accident can be a traumatic experience, often causing panic and fear. In the heat of the moment, some drivers may act impulsively and leave the scene.
For example, this scenario may occur in truck accidents, where drivers may panic at the thought of losing their trucking jobs or facing severe legal repercussions. The fear of having inflicted serious injuries might also drive them to make the rash decision to flee.
Motorists cannot simply disregard their responsibilities to the victim to avoid accountability. Our Pomona truck accident lawyers, who can also handle hit-and-run cases, can help victims build their cases through independent investigations and evidence-gathering.
Fear Of Criminal Charges
Hit-and-run accidents are usually the result of other road violations. For example, drivers who are under the influence could flee the scene in fear of being charged with a DUI on top of other charges.
Lack Of Insurance
Hit-and-run accidents can have severe financial consequences. Many drivers involved in these incidents may lack adequate insurance coverage to compensate victims. This financial burden might be a compelling reason for fleeing the scene.
Outstanding Warrants
Drivers with outstanding arrest warrants may panic after an accident and flee the scene to avoid being caught by law enforcement. The fear of arrest or further legal trouble might compel them to make this impulsive decision. These drivers can face additional criminal charges for the hit-and-run, increased fines, and a greater likelihood of jail time.
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run accident involving a driver who fled the scene due to an outstanding warrant, our Pomona lawyers can help. We can work closely with law enforcement agencies to identify the driver and locate them.
What You Can Do If The Hit-And-Run Driver Is Never Identified Or Located
The authorities and our investigators will make efforts to locate the hit-and-run driver. Unfortunately, identifying the driver can be difficult and complex, and the driver could remain unidentified or not found.
Does this mean that your case is a lost cause? Not necessarily. You may be able to seek compensation even if the driver remains at large through other means.
File A Personal Injury Case Against Other At-Fault Parties
In some accidents, other parties may also bear liability for the initial crash. They would also be responsible for compensating you for their share of fault. These parties could include:
- Another motorist
- The car’s owner
- The driver’s employer
- Car manufacturers
- A government entity
Each potentially liable party can be investigated to study their involvement. Even if the hit-and-run driver is not found, you may still be able to pursue compensation from these parties for their negligent actions. Our Pomona hit-and-run accident lawyers can assess your case and see if this option is available in your case.
File A Claim With Your Auto Insurance Company
If you sustained injuries or if your insured vehicle was damaged in a hit-and-run accident, your auto insurance provider might be able to compensate you through the following coverage options:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage — If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you can file a claim under this provision. The purpose of UM coverage is to cover damages and injuries inflicted by uninsured or unidentified drivers. A hit-and-run accident falls into these scenarios.
- Collision Coverage — Unlike in other states, collision coverage is optional in California. This insurance compensates for damage to your vehicle based on its market value. It can be useful if the driver is never found.
- Medical Pay Benefits — Medical Pay Benefits (MedPay) is another optional add-on to your policy. It covers medical bills and other expenses in the event of an accident.
A personal injury attorney can help you understand the claims process and explore other avenues for compensation. Our Pomona hit-and-run accident attorneys can help discuss your options further if the driver who caused your crash cannot be identified or located.
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Accident In Pomona
Your immediate focus after an accident should be on your safety and well-being. Still, being mindful of your actions can put you in a better position when it comes to safeguarding your potential right to seek compensation in the future. Here’s a sample list of steps that may be helpful following hit-and-run accidents:
Make Sure You're Safe And Away From Danger
If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident, prioritize your safety and avoid immediate confrontation with the fleeing driver. If possible, move to a safe location to prevent further harm. Check yourself for injuries; if others are involved, assess whether they need assistance.
For emergencies requiring immediate medical attention, call 911 immediately. You can also call the Pomona Police Department’s non-emergency dispatch hotline at (909) 622-1241 for assistance.
Document The Scene
Quickly gather details about the fleeing driver or vehicle, such as the license plate, make, model, color, size, stickers, or other identifying features. Use your phone to take pictures or videos of the vehicle. Once the offender is out of sight, document the surroundings, including the damage to your vehicle and injuries you’ve sustained.
Any information or evidence you gather can significantly help investigators find the hit-and-run driver. Our Pomona car accident lawyers, focusing on hit-and-run cases, can consolidate and review the evidence gathered from the scene.
Look For Possible Witnesses
If you find anyone who saw what happened, try to obtain their contact information. Ask them to stay long enough to provide a statement to the police. Their testimony can be invaluable in helping your Pomona hit-and-run accident attorneys build your case.
Cooperate With The Police
When the authorities arrive, calmly and clearly explain what happened, sticking strictly to the facts. Avoid offering opinions, speculations, or assumptions. Provide the police with all relevant details to help them identify and apprehend the hit-and-run driver. This step is crucial for creating an accurate police report.
Seek Further Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, getting a thorough medical evaluation is crucial. Adrenaline and shock can mask injuries; some issues may not become apparent until after lab tests. Describe the nature of the accident to the medical staff so they can conduct the appropriate examinations.
This step is essential for your health and creating a medical record that links your injuries to the accident. This documentation is crucial for establishing the other party’s fault.
Consult With Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys In Pomona
Hit-and-run accidents are sensitive and complex cases to handle. Before engaging with insurance companies, consider consulting with our Pomona hit-and-run accident lawyers. We can help you learn more about the claims process and understand your rights in these situations.
Our client suffered serious injuries after he was run over by a speeding vehicle. Aside from achieving a monumental financial recovery, our firm was able to secure the best medical care and treatment to ensure that he recovered from his injuries with the best medical team in the nation. We are happy to deliver closure and peace to a nice family.– BRIAN BEECHER
Hit-And-Run Statistics In Pomona, CA
In the 2022 traffic crash data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,932 fatalities were recorded in crashes involving hit-and-run drivers, a slight 0.5% increase from the 2,917 fatalities recorded in 2021. This increase underscores the ongoing concern surrounding hit-and-run incidents nationwide.
The situation is also alarming in Pomona. The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported 95 hit-and-run accidents resulting in fatalities and injuries in 2021. This figure represents an 8% increase from the previous year’s 87 recorded incidents. These rising numbers highlight the serious and growing issue of hit-and-run accidents, which often leave victims vulnerable and without immediate help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit-And-Run Accidents In Pomona
Are Hit-And-Run Accidents Always Investigated?
Hit-and-run accidents are investigated based on their severity. Cases with major damage, injuries, or fatalities are prioritized and thoroughly investigated to find and capture the culprit. However, minor cases with slight damage or no injuries might get less attention or not be as rigorously investigated. Nonetheless, it’s important to report every hit-and-run to the police to ensure there’s an official record.
Regardless of the outcome of the initial investigation, the dedicated hit-and-run accident attorneys in Pomona at our law firm have the resources to conduct independent investigations. We can help identify details that may be valuable to your case.
How Can I Report A Hit-And-Run Accident In Pomona?
Filing a police report can serve as helpful evidence for personal injury claims. Victims or their families can file a report at the Pomona police station at 490 W. Mission Blvd. or by calling (909) 622-1241.
When reporting a crime or accident to the police, be prepared to answer a series of questions. You will be asked to provide the following information:
- Your Information — Your name and contact number.
- Incident Details — Whether it’s a crime in progress, a past crime, or a traffic accident.
- Location — Specific address, cross street, and any landmarks.
- Suspect Information — Description, vehicle details, and direction of departure if applicable.
- Additional Details — Whether there are injuries, and if you wish to be contacted by the police.
The information you give the police may help them identify the hit-and-run driver. Even details you think are redundant and unnecessary can give responding officers the necessary lead to apprehend the hit-and-run driver. The same is true when speaking with our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona. Every small detail you recall can help guide us in the right direction.
What Happens If A Hit-And-Run Driver Is Never Identified Or Apprehended?
Unfortunately, if the responsible driver is not found, they may escape legal consequences. This situation can be distressing for many reasons. Not only does it leave the perpetrator unaccountable, but it also places a significant financial burden on the injured party.
In such cases, seeking legal representation from experienced hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona can help you explore other avenues for compensation.
What Happens If I Am Injured In A Hit-And-Run By A Rideshare Vehicle?
The situation can become complicated if the hit-and-run driver is operating a rideshare vehicle. Your hit-and-run accident lawyers must determine which insurance policy is responsible, such as the driver’s auto insurance or the rideshare company’s third-party liability insurance. Coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
The coverage limits can also vary. For instance, Lyft and Uber have different levels of insurance coverage depending on whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger when the accident occurred. Our experienced hit-and-run lawyers in Pomona, who also handle Uber and Lyft accident cases, are familiar with how to handle these scenarios. They can help explain the appropriate insurance coverage and pursue the compensation that may be available to you.
When Should I File A Hit-And-Run Claim In Pomona?
After a hit-and-run accident in Pomona, it is recommended to file a personal injury claim shortly after. The state of California follows the statute of limitations of two years from the accident date, with exceptions potentially extending or shortening that time frame in certain situations. If you fail to file within the given period, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona understand the importance of these deadlines. We can help you determine the important deadlines for your case and assist you with the filing process.
Can A Passenger Share Liability For A Hit-And-Run Accident?
The authorities could hold a passenger liable for a hit-and-run accident, depending on the circumstances. The passenger might bear responsibility in the following situations:
- They persuaded the driver to flee the scene.
- They participated in the driver’s carelessness.
- They took the wheel and drove the vehicle away.
Pomona hit-and-run accident lawyers can gather information and evidence that may help establish potential liability in these cases. Whether the negligent driver or passenger was at fault, our team can study how we can help you pursue accountability for their actions.
What Are The Legal Obligations Of A Driver Involved In An Accident?
California law requires all drivers, regardless of fault, to take the following steps after a vehicle collision:
- Stop and park your vehicle in a safe spot.
- If they damage unattended property, they must make a reasonable effort to find the owner and exchange information. If the owner cannot be located, they must leave a note with their name and address.
- Provide reasonable help to injured victims, which might include calling emergency services.
- If no law enforcement is present at the scene, report the collision to the police or California Highway Patrol (CHP). Additionally, if the accident involves more than $1,000 in property damage, injuries, or fatalities, the accident must be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles within ten days.
What Insurance Coverage Options Are Available For Hit-And-Run Victims In Pomona, California?
Depending on your insurance policy, the following coverage could apply:
- Auto Insurance — Your personal auto insurance may cover hit-and-run accidents if you have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UI/UM) coverage, collision coverage, or MedPay. Not all policies have these options, so check your policy first.
- Health Insurance — If the driver remains unidentified, your health insurance might help cover accident-related medical expenses.
If you need help calculating and pursuing compensation, seek out our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona. We will evaluate your options and guide you through them.
What Are The Chances Of Catching A Hit-And-Run Driver?
Authorities in California and nationwide face significant challenges in solving hit-and-run cases. For example, in 2017, the LAPD solved only about 8% of hit-and-run cases, highlighting the difficulty in apprehending offenders. While the chances are slim, the combined efforts of law enforcement and witnesses often lead to the eventual prosecution of many hit-and-run drivers. Evidence such as surveillance cameras and police investigations can also help track the negligent driver.
Our Pomona attorneys, handling hit-and-run accidents, can help you with this process. We can work to gather and present all available information to help the police apprehend the offender.
Who Can File A Hit-And-Run Accident Claim?
In California, every victim of an accident has the right to pursue damages. Whether you are an undocumented immigrant or a long-term resident, you may be eligible to seek compensation.
Our Pomona hit-and-run accident attorneys are committed to handling your case professionally, without bias or discrimination. We can advocate for your rights and support you in pursuing the compensation that may be available to you under the law.
What Evidence Is Needed To Convict A Hit-And-Run Defendant In California?
In hit-and-run cases, you must gather evidence to support your claim. Photos, videos, eyewitness testimonies, police reports, medical records, and other forms of proof of your accident or losses can be critical in building your case.
Working with experienced hit-and-run attorneys in Pomona can take this responsibility off your shoulders. We can assist in gathering the essential details needed to identify the hit-and-run driver. Our lawyers can also be your advocates in pursuing damages incurred in a crash.
How Much Can You Sue For Hit-And-Run In Pomona, CA?
In contrast to other states, California does not have a cap on the damages that hit-and-run victims can seek. However, the compensation you may pursue depends on several factors, including liability, available insurance coverage, and other case-specific details. The value of your case may also depend on the actual damages you incurred and the evidence available to substantiate them.
Does Insurance Cover Hit-And-Run Damage To Parked Cars?
Yes, insurance can cover hit-and-run incidents involving parked cars in Pomona. California operates under an “at-fault” insurance system, meaning that the driver responsible for the accident is liable for covering damages. The at-fault driver’s insurance should cover the damages if your parked car is hit.
However, if the driver who hit your car cannot be identified, you can file a claim with your auto insurance provider instead, depending on the inclusions of your policy. Consult our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona to learn about your options.
How Much Does Hiring Pomona Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys Cost?
The cost of hiring an accident attorney depends on how complicated your case is. In hit-and-run claims, for instance, a lawyer may charge more if a significant amount of effort is needed to locate the at-fault driver. However, paying them doesn’t need to add to other financial burdens you may be experiencing after a crash.
Our Pomona hit-and-run accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. In other words, clients won’t have to pay us any upfront lawyer fees unless they’re able to collect compensation. Some case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome. We can clarify this fee structure before we move forward with your case.
Contact Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers In Pomona
Hit-and-run accidents can be distressing, intensifying the trauma of an already challenging situation. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Pomona can help advocate for your rights. We can work to help the authorities identify and hold the hit-and-run driver accountable. If you sign on as one of our clients, we can also represent you on a contingency fee basis. Focus on your recovery, and let our attorneys do the legal legwork for you.
Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to schedule your free initial consultation. You can also fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form. We serve all of Pomona and the rest of Los Angeles County, including La Verne, Claremont, Montclair, Diamond Bar, Chino, San Dimas, Ontario, Charter Oak, Upland, Walnut, Covina, Rancho Cucamonga, Jurupa Valley, Glendora, South San Jose Hills, and more. However, you can consult us about other personal injury accidents that take place throughout California.
