Whittier 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.
Whittier Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers We Help You Find A Legal Path Forward
Our Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers are committed to protecting the rights of victims left reeling after a reckless driver flees the scene. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or hopeless, know that you don’t have to face this difficult time alone. Many victims assume they will have to bear the financial burden themselves, but our lawyers are here to assist them in pursuing compensation they may be eligible for. If we cannot locate the responsible driver, we can help you explore alternative avenues for seeking compensation. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Hit-and-run accidents can strike unexpectedly, affecting pedestrians, motorists, motorcyclists, and cyclists alike. In the aftermath, you may face additional expenses, including medical bills and vehicle repairs. These expenses should not fall on you. You have the right to seek compensation for your damages, even in these tough situations.
At Arash Law, we handle various types of motor vehicle accidents, including hit-and-runs. Our experienced lawyers can guide you through every step of the claims process. We can explore other potential sources of compensation and seek fair compensation for your losses.
Why Choose Our Experienced Whittier Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
As a personal injury law firm in California, Arash Law has helped injured victims handle various cases, including hit-and-run accidents. Seeking legal support from our Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers can be advantageous to your case. Here are some reasons to consider choosing us for your case:
- Free Initial Consultations — Seeking justice shouldn’t come with financial barriers. That’s why we offer free initial consultations to help you understand your legal options.
- No-Win, No-Fee Policy — If you work with us, you won’t pay anything up front. You won’t have to pay the attorney’s fees if we don’t recover compensation for you. Other case-related costs may be charged separately, regardless of the outcome of your case. We’ll help you understand our fee agreement and any other possible costs during your consultation.
- Client-Centered Approach — We keep you informed, maintain open communication, and tailor a strategy that fits your unique circumstances. We also consider the needs of clients who prefer to speak in a language other than English. Our goal is to help you meet your needs for your case while seeking fair compensation for you.
- Collaborative Representation — We have a network of expert witnesses who can support your case. We can hire physicians, accident reconstructionists, and economists to support your claim.
- Client Reviews — To help you determine if we’re the right fit for your hit-and-run case, feel free to check out our previous client’s review on Google:
- “The best experience I ever had with an attorney. They are really great! I worked with other attorneys in the past and never received this type of professional representation. This office really cares about their clients. Thank you so much!” — Christlene B.
Our client was a loyal rideshare driver involved in a hit-and-run. The at-fault driver struck our client and fled the scene. After years of litigating in Arbitration for the Underinsured Motorist policy, our co-counselor Kevin Levian set up the case perfectly for an arbitration trial. Ultimately, the case was resolved for the maximum policy limits one week before the arbitration.– BRIAN BEECHER
How Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers Help Victims
Our Whittier hit-and-run accident attorneys recognize the unique challenges victims face in these situations. First, the at-fault driver abandons them. Second, there may be uncertainty about whether anyone can identify the responsible party. Victims often face substantial financial burdens and worry about who will cover these costs. We are here to help you navigate these complexities and seek the compensation you may be eligible for.
Our lawyers can assist you with your case by:
- Investigating the cause of the accident to determine fault and identifying any other parties that may be liable.
- Collecting evidence, like medical records, police reports, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness accounts, to back your claim.
- Coordinating with law enforcement to identify the responsible party.
- Working with your doctors to track and document your injuries and damages.
- Handling the insurance claims process and maintaining communication with the provider.
- Determining other avenues for potential compensation if the authorities fail to identify the at-fault driver.
- Keeping track of deadlines that may apply to your case.
- Preparing a comprehensive case and negotiating for a fair settlement.
If settlement negotiations don’t work or if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we can take your case to court and represent you. Our team can help you pursue compensation for your losses. You might be looking for free accident lawyer advice to learn how lawyers can help with your case. Contact us to schedule a free case review, and let our experienced team help you navigate the legal process ahead.
Common Reasons Drivers Flee After An Accident
There are various reasons why some drivers choose to flee the scene instead of facing the consequences. However, none of these reasons justify their decision to speed away and leave their victims without assistance.
Hit-and-runs happen due to the following reasons:
- The driver didn’t realize the extent of the damage they caused.
- The driver believed that no one saw the incident.
- The driver is uninsured or underinsured, and they probably think they won’t be able to cover the damages.
- The driver may have panicked, felt overwhelmed, and made the impulsive decision to leave the scene.
- The driver has a suspended, revoked, or restricted license.
- The driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- The crash resulted in injuries or fatalities, and they were attempting to avoid responsibility.
According to the California DMV, drivers are required to stop after an accident, give their information, and help anyone injured, regardless of who is at fault.
We are here to provide legal support for you after a hit-and-run accident. Contact our Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Hurt In
A Car Accident?
How Our Attorneys Establish Liability In A Hit-And-Run Accident Claim
To pursue compensation for your injuries, you must establish negligence. While the driver’s failure to stop may constitute negligence, it does not automatically establish fault for the actual collision. Proving liability can be tough without skilled legal help. Our Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers can assist you in demonstrating the key elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — The at-fault driver had a legal responsibility to practice due care and avoid reckless behavior.
- Breach of Duty — The at-fault driver violated their legal obligation by acting recklessly or failing to take the necessary precautions to prevent harm.
- Causation — This failure to exercise care directly contributed to the accident and the resulting injuries.
- Damages — You suffered harm and financial losses as a result of that breach.
In certain situations, complex legal issues can arise, particularly when vicarious liability applies, such as instances where the at-fault party was carrying out their job duties within the scope of employment at the time of the collision. This could make their employer responsible for the car accident. Additionally, defects in tires or automotive parts may introduce product liability considerations. Our hit-and-run injury attorneys can help you identify the liable parties who may be involved in your hit-and-run accident.
You might also need compelling evidence to prove these elements. Our car accident lawyers can use the following to establish negligence:
- Police report
- Traffic camera footage
- Medical records
- Accident scene images
- Phone records
- Expert testimonies
- Eyewitness accounts
If you are not sure whether you have a valid claim, fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form. We can assess your case and determine your eligibility for compensation.
Insurance Options For Victims Of Hit-And-Runs
If the authorities cannot locate the fleeing motorist, your insurance may cover any injuries or losses you have incurred. Here are some insurance policies that could provide financial relief after a hit-and-run accident:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage — This optional addition to your auto insurance policy helps when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage. It also offers financial protection to victims, particularly when the identity of the driver remains unknown.
- Collision Coverage — This coverage helps compensate you for any damage to your vehicle. Insurers determine the amount of coverage they provide based on the market value of your vehicle when the accident occurred.
- Medical Pay Coverage (MedPay) — This insurance covers hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, and other medical expenses associated with your injury. Your insurance company may pursue a claim against the hit-and-run driver if the authorities find them later.
Some insurance companies can be challenging to deal with, often attempting to minimize or deny claims. Our Whittier hit-and-run accident attorneys are here to help you review your policy and negotiate on your behalf. We can help you identify any insurance coverage options so you can pursue compensation you may be eligible for.
Compensation Victims May Pursue After Hit-And-Run Accidents
Our Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers can help victims seek fair compensation for the damages they incurred. Depending on your situation, these may include:
- Medical Expenses — In successful cases, compensation can cover both current and future medical costs related to your injuries. Severe injuries such as damage to internal organs, burns, severe traumatic brain injuries, and deep cuts may require emergency care. Meanwhile, other injuries might need ongoing treatments, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or occupational therapy.
- Lost Income — You may miss work while recovering from injuries such as bone fractures, soft tissue damage, or those requiring surgery. In these cases, you can seek compensation for lost wages for the time you are unable to work. If your injuries result in disability, such as the loss of a limb or paralysis, you may also pursue compensation for reduced earning capacity.
- Property Damage — You can also pursue compensation for the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle or for expenses related to alternative transportation or rentals while your car is in the shop for repairs.
- Pain and Suffering — In addition to financial losses, victims may experience intangible harm. The aftermath of a hit-and-run can lead to chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, and emotional strain from financial burdens or prolonged recovery. These non-economic damages are just as significant as the economic ones, and you can seek compensation for them.
Steps To Take After A Hit-And-Run Accident
The actions you take after a hit-and-run accident can impact your potential claim. Your well-being should always come first. Start by checking for injuries and calling 911 for emergency assistance. You should provide details such as the accident location and the number of injured victims.
Once you’ve ensured safety, you can take these recommended steps to help protect your rights:
- Report to the Authorities — When the police arrive at the scene, provide them with relevant details about the accident. Share information such as the make, model, color, and license plate number of the fleeing vehicle.
- Document the Scene — Take clear photos or videos of the accident scene, including any physical evidence such as tire marks or paint chips. If the police have retrieved any evidence, be sure to note it for reference. Additionally, check if there are surveillance cameras around the area.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention — Some injuries, such as internal damage or whiplash, may not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time. Early treatment helps prevent complications while providing important documentation for your claim.
- Look for Eyewitnesses — If there are witnesses, ask if they can recall details about the fleeing vehicle. Be sure to collect their contact information, as their statements can strengthen your claim and assist in the investigation.
- Notify Your Insurer — Promptly notifying your insurance company while the driver is still at large can help you seek compensation, such as from benefits or, if applicable, your UM/UIM coverage.
- Consult With Experienced Whittier Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers — An experienced attorney can manage the claims process and negotiate with your insurance company. They can also help you explore potential alternative compensation options if the driver remains unidentified.
Gomez v. PG Transportation (settled on 8/11/2023) – settlement involving a man who was struck by a car resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury as well as other orthopedic injuries.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Deadline For Filing A Hit-And-Run Claim In California
When filing an insurance claim, it’s crucial to act quickly since different insurance companies have their own deadlines, particularly for UM/UIM coverage. In California, the deadline to file an injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. Our experienced Whittier hit-and-run accident attorneys can help review the details of your policy to help you file your claim within the necessary deadlines. We can handle your claim and use our years of experience in building your case to pursue fair compensation.
You must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the accident. If the at-fault driver remains unidentified, you can file a “John Doe” lawsuit within these two years to preserve your right to pursue legal action. Once the authorities identify the hit-and-run driver, you can amend the lawsuit to reflect their name. This procedure helps you meet the statute of limitations. It also gives time for the investigation to find the person responsible.
Other circumstances may adjust this deadline. Here are some examples:
- Delayed Discovery of Injuries — If the injuries are not immediately apparent, the time limit starts from the date the injury was reasonably discovered.
- The Victim Was a Minor — The time limit starts when the victim turns 18. Parents or legal guardians can file on behalf of the minor before they reach the age of adulthood.
- The Victim Was Mentally Incapacitated — In this case, the deadline is suspended until the victim regains their mental capacity. A conservator or other legal representative may file on their behalf even if they haven’t fully recovered.
Hit-and-run cases can be complex and challenging to navigate, especially when you’re still dealing with your injuries. Let the skilled attorneys at our Whittier injury law firm handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.
Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics
Our team reviewed data from UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) about hit-and-run accident statistics in Whittier from 2022 to 2024. As of March 2025, available data revealed the following:
- A total of 165 hit-and-run crashes occurred in Whittier in this period.
- These incidents resulted in 1 fatality and 212 injuries.
- Approximately 40% of the crashes took place on state highways.
- Around 12% of those involved were pedestrians.
- Bicyclists were involved in 5.5% of these incidents, and motorcyclists were involved in 3% of these accidents.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hit-and-run drivers were responsible for 2,932 fatalities nationwide in 2022. The agency also revealed that among the 7,522 pedestrian fatalities that year, 1,910 were involved in hit-and-run crashes.
These statistics highlight the frequency of hit-and-runs and the vulnerability of certain road users, especially pedestrians. Hit-and-run victims need support to navigate the challenges they face. With drivers fleeing the scene, they may feel hopeless about pursuing compensation for damages they didn’t cause. Our Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process. We can help you seek compensation for the damages you have suffered.
Questions People Commonly Ask About Hit-And-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims with many unanswered questions, from how to seek compensation to what legal steps to take next. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about hit-and-run accident claims. If you have specific concerns or need personalized guidance, contact our Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391.
What Does It Cost To Hire A Whittier Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyer Near Me?
Most hit-and-run accident lawyers in Whittier handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay the attorney’s fees if they successfully secure compensation for you. Their fee is usually deducted from a portion of the recovered amount. If they do not obtain compensation on your behalf, you won’t have to pay the attorney’s fees. However, you may still be responsible for other case costs regardless of the outcome.
Some lawyers charge by the hour or use segmented billing with fixed fees. It is important to understand the attorney’s fee structure before hiring them. Be sure to clarify all terms to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Is My Whittier Hit-And-Run Accident Case Worth?
It can be difficult to answer this question without the details of the case. The severity of injuries, medical needs, and the potential for long-term or permanent effects all influence the amount of compensation a victim may be eligible for. Every case is different, and its value may vary depending on your situation. Our Whittier hit-and-run accident attorneys can assess your case and determine your eligibility for compensation. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
How Long Does It Take For An Insurance Company To Settle A Claim In Whittier?
Insurance companies must acknowledge a claim within a few days of receiving it. Typically, you can expect a response within 15 days. Under the California Fair Claims Settlement Practices Act, insurers must either settle or deny the claim within 40 days. The insurance company has a maximum of 30 days to pay out if the claim gets approved.
Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer To Help Me Negotiate With The Insurance Adjusters After A Hit-And-Run?
You can negotiate with insurance adjusters without the need for legal representation from a personal injury lawyer. However, having one can benefit your case. Lawyers know how to work with insurance companies. They can help you pursue fair compensation. They can negotiate for you, protect your rights, and guide you to avoid providing statements that could harm your claim.
Our Whittier hit-and-run accident attorneys can handle negotiations on your behalf. We can advocate for your rights to seek fair compensation and also represent you in court if an adequate settlement cannot be reached.
Call Our Skilled Whittier Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers
Our experienced Whittier hit-and-run accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process. In addition to helping identify the at-fault driver, we can assist you in filing a claim with your insurance company and exploring other potential legal avenues for compensation if the driver remains unidentified. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
With decades of experience handling different types of injury cases for victims in California, our skilled and knowledgeable team here at Arash Law can assist you in pursuing compensation. Apart from hit-and-runs, our Whittier lawyers also advocate for victims of car collisions, slip-and-falls, Uber and Lyft accidents, truck crashes, motorcycle incidents, dog bites, and pedestrian accidents, among others.
We extend our services to victims in the rest of Los Angeles County, including Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, Hacienda Heights, La Mirada, East Whittier, Avocado Heights, South El Monte, Montebello, La Puente, Norwalk, El Monte, West Puente Valley, and Downey.
