7 Critical Facts About Hit and Run Accidents and Your Legal Options in Los Angeles
Being involved in an accident is distressing, but when the other driver chooses to leave the accident scene, the situation becomes legally and personally complex. In los angeles, a hit and run is a serious offense. This guide provides comprehensive information on california law, your path to compensation, and why choosing the right lawyer is vital for your case.
What Constitutes a Hit and Run in California?
A hit and run, legally defined under California Vehicle Code 20002, occurs when a driver is involved in an collision—whether with another vehicle, property, or a pedestrian—and fails to stop, provide details, and render aid. Fleeing the scene turns a simple traffic accident into a criminal act. The severity of charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, especially if there is injury involved.
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene of an Accident in Los Angeles?
Understanding the motives behind a run accident is part of building a strong defense or claim. Drivers may leave due to fear of DUI charges, lack of insurance, outstanding warrants, or simply panic. Regardless of reason, the act prioritizes their self-interest over the well-being of victims, compounding the injustice. An experienced hit and run accident lawyer investigates these motives to establish fault and leverage the state's stringent laws.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit and Run in Los Angeles
Your actions at the scene are crucial. First, ensure safety and call 911 for medical and police response. Then, gather any information: a partial license plate, car description, or direction of travel. Attorney Seek witness details and document everything with photos. Finally, call a specialized attorney immediately. Our law firm, Eisenberg Law Group PC, advises clients to take these steps to protect both their health and their legal right to restitution.
Criminal Charges vs. Civil Liability in a Hit and Run Case
A hit and run case operates on two tracks. The state pursues criminal charges against the fleeing driver, which can result in fines, jail time, and a permanent record. Separately, victims have the right to file a civil lawsuit for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain. Even if the criminal case fails, your civil case might still succeed. A firm like ours navigates both arenas.
How a Los Angeles Hit and Run Lawyer Can Help You
An accident lawyer focused on run involving incidents provides indispensable help. They handle all communication with insurance companies, which often try to minimize payouts in these complex cases. They work to identify the at- fault driver through investigation and collaborate with law enforcement. At Eisenberg Law Group PC, our team builds a compelling claim for maximum compensation, allowing you to focus on recovery.
The Role of Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Hit and Run Accidents
If the driver who hit you is never found, you are still not without recourse. Your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is designed for this exact scenario—a run accident where the other party is unidentified. A skilled lawyer at our law offices can help you file a claim under your own policy to seek the compensation you deserve, a process that requires specific legal expertise to navigate successfully against your own insurer.
Choosing Eisenberg Law Group PC for Your Los Angeles Hit and Run Case
In the crowded los angeles legal landscape, with firms like jacoby meyers law offices or ben crump law advertising heavily, selecting specialized representation is key. Eisenberg Law Group PC, with attorney michael and his team, offers focused expertise in in hit and run collisions. We provide aggressive legal defense for those charged and relentless advocacy for the injured. For a free consultation on your case, call us today at 888 356 7875.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run Law in California
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and felony hit and run charge?
The severity hinges on the outcome of the accident. A misdemeanor applies to incidents involving only property damage. If the collision results in injury or death, the driver can be charged with a felony, facing significantly harsher penalties from the judge, including potential state prison time.
Can I be compensated if the hit and run driver is never found?
Yes, through your own uninsured motorist policy as outlined in California insurance law. This is a primary reason to call a lawyer immediately after in an accident https://www.757pages.com/united-states/los-angeles/legal-services/eisenberg-law of this nature. Your attorney will file the necessary claim and negotiate with your insurer to secure compensation for your injury and losses.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a hit and run in Los Angeles?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, given the complexity of identifying the defendant in a run involving case, it is critical to begin the investigation and legal process as soon as possible with a knowledgeable law firm.
Legal Precedent and Resources for Hit and Run Victims
California courts take hit and run offenses seriously. Legal scholars often reference studies like the "California Hit-and-Run Crash Analysis" from the Office of Traffic Safety to understand trends and judicial responses. These resources inform the aggressive strategies used by lawyers at firms like ours to hold negligent parties accountable and argue for full restitution and compensation for our clients.
Company: Eisenberg Law Group PC
Address: 811 Wilshire Blvd #1720, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: (213) 616-5353