What is a hit and run accident?

A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident flees the scene without stopping to provide information or assist victims. It's a serious crime in California that can result in criminal charges.

What legal consequences does a fleeing driver face?

Consequences include: misdemeanor or felony charges depending on severity, up to 4 years in prison if there are injuries, fines up to $10,000, license suspension, and points on driving record. If there's a death, they may face vehicular manslaughter charges.

Can I receive compensation if the driver fled and isn't found?

Yes. Your uninsured motorist (UM) insurance can cover your damages. We can also investigate to identify the driver using surveillance cameras, witnesses, and forensic evidence. An attorney can maximize your compensation options.

What should I do if I'm a hit and run victim?

1) Call 911 immediately. 2) Find witnesses and get their contact info. 3) Note any vehicle details (color, model, partial plate). 4) Take photos of the scene and your injuries. 5) Look for nearby surveillance cameras. 6) Contact a hit and run attorney.

How long do I have to file a hit and run claim?

In California, you have 2 years to file a civil lawsuit for personal injuries. However, you should report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible, usually within 24-72 hours. Act quickly to preserve evidence.

What compensation can I receive as a hit and run victim?

You may receive compensation for: medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. If we identify the driver, punitive damages may also be available.

What is a hit and run accident?

A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident flees the scene without stopping to provide information or assist victims. It's a serious crime in California that can result in criminal charges.

What legal consequences does a fleeing driver face?

Consequences include: misdemeanor or felony charges depending on severity, up to 4 years in prison if there are injuries, fines up to $10,000, license suspension, and points on driving record. If there's a death, they may face vehicular manslaughter charges.

Can I receive compensation if the driver fled and isn't found?

Yes. Your uninsured motorist (UM) insurance can cover your damages. We can also investigate to identify the driver using surveillance cameras, witnesses, and forensic evidence. An attorney can maximize your compensation options.

What should I do if I'm a hit and run victim?

1) Call 911 immediately. 2) Find witnesses and get their contact info. 3) Note any vehicle details (color, model, partial plate). 4) Take photos of the scene and your injuries. 5) Look for nearby surveillance cameras. 6) Contact a hit and run attorney.

How long do I have to file a hit and run claim?

In California, you have 2 years to file a civil lawsuit for personal injuries. However, you should report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible, usually within 24-72 hours. Act quickly to preserve evidence.

What compensation can I receive as a hit and run victim?

You may receive compensation for: medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. If we identify the driver, punitive damages may also be available.

Hit and Run Specialists

Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Were you a victim of a hit and run accident? Don't let justice escape you. Our expert hit and run attorneys help identify fleeing drivers and obtain maximum compensation.

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Consequences for the Fleeing Driver

Criminal charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Up to 4 years in prison if injuries occur
Fines up to $10,000
Driver's license suspension
Permanent points on driving record
Possible vehicular manslaughter charges

What Are the Consequences of a Hit and Run in California?

A hit and run is one of the most serious traffic offenses in California. When a driver flees the scene of an accident, they not only violate the law but leave victims without the assistance and information they need to recover.

It's a Serious Crime

Fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in California. Drivers are legally required to stop, provide information, and assist victims.

Criminal Consequences

Depending on severity, the driver may face misdemeanor charges (up to 1 year in jail) or felony charges (up to 4 years in prison). If there's a death, they may face vehicular manslaughter charges.

Civil Consequences

Victims can sue the driver for compensatory and punitive damages. The fleeing can be used as evidence of negligence and significantly increase compensation.

License Consequences

The DMV will suspend the driver's license. Points remain on record for years, affecting insurance and employment opportunities that require driving.

Your Options as a Victim

Even if the driver flees, you have options: your UM insurance can cover damages, we can investigate to identify the fugitive, and state funds are available for victims.

What To Do If You're a Hit and Run Victim

1
Call 911 immediately
Report the accident and request medical assistance if there are injuries.
2
Find witnesses
Get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident.
3
Document everything possible
Vehicle color, model, partial plate, direction of escape, damage to your vehicle.
4
Look for surveillance cameras
Nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or residences may have video of the incident.
5
Don't chase the driver
It's dangerous and can complicate your case. Focus on documenting and getting help.
6
Contact a hit and run attorney
An attorney can investigate, work with police, and maximize your compensation.

How We Investigate Hit and Run Cases

Our legal team has experience identifying fleeing drivers using multiple resources:

Analysis of public and private surveillance cameras

Coordination with police detectives

Investigation of repair shops

Forensic analysis of vehicle fragments

Witness interviews

Vehicle database searches

Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run

Hit and Run Victim? We're Here to Help

Don't let the fleeing driver escape justice. Our attorneys specialize in identifying hit and run drivers and obtaining maximum compensation.