It is illegal for a driver to hit another driver and speed off, and these actions can result in serious consequences. Not only are they liable for the other driver’s damages, but they may be required to pay punitive damages for their reckless behavior. Hit and run accidents have killed 17,531 victims within the last decade, resulting in long-term damages that impacted the lives of many surviving family members. If you recently have been in a hit-and-run accident and don’t know your next steps, you should speak with a reliable representative who can help you through this difficult time. For more information, contact The Law Offices of Rosenstock and Azran in Reseda for a free consultation.
What Legally Defines A Hit And Run Accident?
Hit and run accidents occur when a vehicle crashes into another and causes death, bodily injury, or property damage before leaving the scene. They try to dodge being held responsible and leave without providing their contact information. Additionally, they leave behind someone injured who may need help, which is also illegal. Between 2010 to 2019, the hit and run accidents have increased by 44%. California, unfortunately, has the highest incidence of hit-and-run accident activity.
What Happens If or When The Person Is Caught?
Every state is different, but the at-fault driver can either receive a misdemeanor or a felony in California. A misdemeanor carries six months of prison, a fine of $1,000 or less, or both penalties. They may also have to pay restitution for the property damage, receive 2 points on their driving record, and 2 years of probation. If the driver takes full responsibility for the damages caused by the accident, they may have their hit and run charges dismissed.
What Happens If The Person Is Never Caught?
In a situation where the police are unable to locate the hit-and-run driver, your attorney can look for other at-fault parties that may have been involved in your car crash. For example, if there was construction in the area and it contributed to your accident, it is possible to seek damages from the construction company. You will have to speak to your attorney to find out more about pursuing damages despite not knowing who the hit and run driver was.
What Are Some Forms Of Evidence That Can Be Used In My Settlement Case?
When you get involved in a hit-and-run accident, any information you have will go to your attorney and the police. In this case, your attorney won’t be the one performing the investigation. The police will be in charge of figuring out who the hit and run driver is. Here are some ways that can prove who the hit and run driver is:
Traffic Camera Footage
If there was a traffic camera in the area where the accident happened, it is possible that the hit and run driver was caught on camera. The make and model of the hit-and-run driver’s car may be visible, and perhaps even the license plate.
Witness Testimonies
There may have been eye-witnesses who have seen the driver speed off and may be able to help describe what the vehicle looked like. They can then provide an eye-witness testimony to help police track down the hit-and-run driver.
Debris Or Paint Left Behind From Crash
Your car may have some of the paint left behind by the at-fault driver after the accident, giving the police additional clues that can help them identify what car the driver used. The crash may have also left behind other debris on the road, which can hopefully provide additional ideas on the car’s model and make.
How Can A Hit And Run Accident Help Me?
Car accident lawyers can help you accurately estimate how much in damages you are owed. Their calculations are more fair compared to insurance companies which may leave out important damages that should be included in your settlement. To learn more about how to proceed with your hit-and-run accident claim, call The Law Offices of Rosenstock and Azran in Reseda, CA for a free consultation.