Turlock 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 Turlock Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers Are Here To Make It Right, When You’ve Been Wronged
Facing a hit-and-run accident adds a devastating layer to an already complex situation. If you’re feeling lost and unsure of your next steps, our Turlock hit-and-run accident lawyers can offer you hope. For many decades, we have secured just settlements for countless victims, even when the responsible driver remains unidentified. Call Arash Law today at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation.
As the second-largest city in Stanislaus County, Turlock is conveniently located at the intersection of State Routes 165 and 99. As the city expands, fueled by a surge in retail and housing developments along Highway 99, the risk of traffic accidents, including hit-and-runs, grows along with it.
Drivers who flee accidents leave their victims in the dust. Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Turlock fight for justice, helping you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve. With a proven track record of over $500 Million recovered in settlements and awards, we’re equipped to handle any case and prepare you for the road ahead. Get in touch with us today.
Does v. California Farm (confidential) –settlement for a group of farmworkers who were killed when the car they were transported in to work flipped over in Merced County.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Why Choose Our Turlock Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers for Your Claim?
- Investigating The Accident – We’ll work to identify the driver, gather witness statements, and review any available video footage.
- Evaluating Your Damages – We’ll assess your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages to determine the fair compensation you deserve.
- Handling Insurance Claims – We’ll deal with the insurance companies on your behalf to maximize your claims.
- Negotiating A Settlement – We’ll strive to reach a fair settlement with the driver’s insurance company without going to court.
- Taking Your Case To Trial – If a settlement isn’t possible, our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Turlock will represent you in court to fight for your full compensation.
Hit-and-run cases are challenging to solve. They can leave victims wondering who to hold accountable if the driver remains at large. Navigating these legalities requires an experienced personal injury attorney. Learn how our car accident lawyers can fight for your rights and compensation after a hit-and-run. Call us or fill out our “Do I have a case?” form.
The California Hit-And-Run Laws
Additionally, the California Vehicle Code Section 20002 states that when a car accident damages property, like another vehicle, the driver must immediately stop at a safe spot that doesn’t block traffic. They need to find the owner and share their contact details. If the owner’s not there, the driver should leave a note with their name, address, and a brief description of the accident on the damaged property. Also, they must report the incident to the police promptly.
Common Causes of Hit-And-Run Accidents
- Drunk drivers – Fleeing the scene may seem preferable rather than facing DUI charges, especially for repeat offenders. Some may wait for the alcohol to metabolize before reporting the offense, hoping to lessen the penalties.
- Uninsured drivers – Fear of fines and criminal charges for driving without insurance motivates some to leave the scene.
- Drivers with warrants or tickets – Outstanding warrants or a history of traffic violations could lead to arrest or license suspension, causing some to flee.
- Drivers with other legal issues – Individuals facing deportation, parole violations, or other legal complications often experience heightened fear and anxiety about further legal entanglements. Fleeing the scene of an accident, even if minor, becomes a desperate attempt to avoid potentially more serious penalties or even incarceration.
- Panicked drivers – Shortly after a collision, some drivers with clean records may panic and flee due to a natural “fight-or-flight” response. They may later turn themselves in when the reality of the situation sinks in.
What to Do After a Hit-And-Run Accident
- Contact the police – The authorities have the best chance of catching the driver while the trail is still fresh. Remember, reporting hit-and-run accidents is mandatory in California.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries have delayed symptoms, and immediate care strengthens your case against the insurance company.
- Consult a lawyer – Hit-and-run claims are challenging, but our Turlock hit-and-run accident lawyers can handle them effectively. We will also take care of all insurance matters, taking the stress off of you.
How Do You Get Compensation After a Hit-And-Run Accident in Turlock, CA?
- Filing an insurance claim – Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is crucial in these situations, but even collision coverage can offer some protection. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss your specific policy and coverage details.
- Exploring MedPay – This add-on coverage can be a lifesaver. It helps cover medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident.
- Conducting an investigation – Our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Turlock can be invaluable in investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and potentially identifying the hit-and-run driver.
- Considering other defendants – If factors like road conditions, faulty equipment, or even reckless actions by a bystander contributed to the accident, you might have grounds to hold a third party accountable.
Common Compensatory Damages in Turlock Hit-And-Run Cases
Economic Damages
- Medical bills – Past and future costs of treatment, including hospital stays, medication, and therapy.
- Lost wages – Income you couldn’t earn due to the accident, including missed workdays and reduced earning capacity.
- Property damage – Repair or replacement costs for damaged belongings.
- Out-of-pocket expenses – Other expenses directly related to the accident, like transportation to medical appointments or childcare due to injury.
Non-Economic Damages
- Emotional distress – The invisible burden of anxiety, fear, and trauma.
- Pain and suffering – The physical and psychological agony caused by your injuries.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – The inability to participate in activities that once brought you joy.
- Loss of consortium – The impact on your personal relationships and intimacy.
Morales v. Construction Group Staffing (settled on 7/23/2020) – settlement involving a client who was catastrophically injured when he fell from a height of 4 stories down a shaft. This is a record breaking California Workers’ Compensation settlement. Read more about this case on Yahoo! Finance News– TINA ESHGHIEH
Negligence and Liability in California
Under California law, negligence occurs when someone’s actions or inaction deviate from what a reasonably careful person would do in the same situation. Simply put, being negligent means either doing something a prudent person wouldn’t do in those circumstances or failing to do something a reasonable person would.
- Duty of care – The defendant owed the plaintiff a legal obligation to act with reasonable care.
- Breach of duty – The defendant failed to fulfill their duty of care by acting or failing to act in a way that deviated from reasonable standards.
- Causation – The defendant’s breach of duty directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
- Damages – The plaintiff suffered actual harm, such as physical injury, financial loss, or emotional distress, as a result of the defendant’s negligence.
California is a pure comparative negligence state. This means plaintiffs may sue for damages even if they bear the majority of blame, but their compensation will be proportionally reduced by their degree of fault. For example, if a jury awards $100,000 in damages but finds the plaintiff 40% at fault, the plaintiff can only recover $60,000 from the defendant.
Statute of Limitations for Hit-And-Run Accident Claims in Turlock, CA
While California grants accident victims a two-year window to file claims, it’s best not to wait that long. Building a strong case relies on gathering evidence and reports, which becomes increasingly difficult with time. This urgency is amplified in scenarios involving hit-and-run or uninsured drivers. So, after an accident, remember you need to act fast to secure a strong claim.
Turlock Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics
California’s congested roads are notorious for a high frequency of car accidents, resulting in significant property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. In 2019, statistics from the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) revealed there were 269,031 injuries and 3,737 deaths from car accidents. While preliminary estimates for 2022 show a slight decrease in injuries (221,559) and a worrying increase in fatalities (4,030), the issue remains critical.
Further, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported that Turlock in California alone saw over 428 total casualties from vehicle accidents in 2020, including 34 hit-and-run cases. If you have sustained injuries as a result of a motor vehicle collision, including hit-and-run accidents, our Turlock hit-and-run accident lawyers stand ready to assist you.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case and explore potential compensation options. We operate on a contingent fee basis, meaning you incur no financial obligation unless we secure a favorable outcome.
Reach Out To The Best Hit-And-Run Attorneys Turlock Has To Offer Today!
Our attorneys provide clear answers to complex questions, easing your burden and guiding you toward tailored solutions. We also serve the neighboring communities of Turlock, like Hatch, Montpelier, Cortez, Ballico, Denair, Keyes, Monterey Park Tract, Cowan Tract, and Delhi. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391.