Hit-and-run accidents make an already challenging situation much more complex. Victims are often left struggling to figure out how to pay for their injuries and car repairs without a party to hold them accountable. A San Diego hit-and-run accident lawyer can work with you to help ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact CaseyGerry today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Why Choose Us?
- We understand how devastating a hit-and-run accident can be and will fight for maximum compensation.
- We offer compassionate and responsible legal representation.
- Our San Diego injury attorneys have received over 100 local, regional, and national awards in recognition of our success and dedicated advocacy.
Why You Need a Lawyer after a Hit-and-Run Accident
Having someone on your side from the beginning to help you is critical. An experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer will have the experience and resources necessary to work with the police and also investigate the crash themselves in an attempt to find the at-fault party. They can speak to eyewitnesses, search for video footage, hire accident reconstruction experts, etc. They will also help you navigate the claims process and will deal with the insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you recover fair compensation.
Options for Compensation after a Hit-and-Run Accident
Victims of hit-and-run accidents are entitled to hold the at-fault driver accountable for their injuries and related losses. If the driver is located, a claim can be filed with their insurance company to pay for medical bills, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, etc.
If the hit-and-run driver is uninsured, your only options are to sue them personally or file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage if you have it. In California, uninsured motorist coverage will help pay for medical bills but will only pay for vehicle repairs if the fleeing driver is identified.
However, in some cases, it can take months or even years for law enforcement to identify the at-fault driver, or they may never be found. As a result, you may have to rely on your own auto insurance company to cover the expenses no matter what, but it will still depend on whether you carry optional forms of insurance. For example, collision coverage will pay for the damage to your vehicle, and MedPay will cover medical bills up to policy limits. Keep in mind that you will be responsible for your deductible. If you only carry the minimum amount of insurance required by law, you may have to pay for your losses related to the hit-and-run accident out-of-pocket until the at-fault driver is found.
What To Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
You may be left in a state of shock when a driver hits your vehicle and then flees the scene, but the steps you take next can have a significant impact on your potential claim:
Call the Police
Notify law enforcement right away to locate the driver as quickly as possible. They will also arrive on the scene to create an accident report and look for evidence that points them to the driver who fled.
Document the Scene
Unless you are transported to the hospital, stay at the scene to take photos of as many details about the accident as you can, including the damage to your vehicle, the surrounding area, and your injuries. Write down any information you can about the vehicle and its driver. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and if they will make a recorded statement on your phone.
Seek Medical Attention
See a doctor as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Medical documentation establishes that your injuries are related to the hit and run.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
An insurance adjuster can advise you on the types of coverage you carry and whether you can file a claim.
File a Claim Against the Hit-and-Run Driver’s Insurance Company
If the at-fault driver is identified, you can file a claim directly with their insurance company.
Speak to a San Diego Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
Consult a San Diego car accident attorney right away for advice on your legal options for obtaining compensation.
Contact CaseyGerry Today
We offer free consultations and will help you obtain the compensation you are warranted. Call (619) 238-1811 or message us online.
