All car accidents in Los Angeles can be incredibly stressful. However, you may face additional legal hurdles if you are struck by a driver who subsequently flees the scene of the collision. Many drivers wonder if they can still get compensation if they were involved in a hit and run in Los Angeles, CA.
Fortunately, you may be able to get damages to cover your losses after a hit and run accident. You can find out how with this article. Get personalized information about your legal options from the Simmrin Law Group. Contact our car accident lawyers in Los Angeles after a hit and run by calling (310) 896-2723.
Your Insurance May Cover Hit and Run Accidents in California
In many cases involving hit and run accidents in Los Angeles, the driver who runs from the scene is never identified. In this situation, you may worry that it will be impossible to get compensation for your losses.
However, your insurance may cover some of your healthcare expenses and vehicle repair costs. You may be able to get compensation for your losses if your auto insurance policy includes:
Collision Insurance
Collision coverage can help cover the costs of having your vehicle repaired after a hit and run accident. Generally, you will have to pay some of the costs, considered as your deductible. Note that the insurance company may decide that your vehicle is totaled if the damage is too expensive to repair.
MedPay Insurance
Some car insurance policies offer MedPay insurance. MedPay insurance is designed to help you pay for medical expenses from injuries caused by a motor vehicle collision. Not all car insurance companies offer MedPay insurance.
Uninsured/Underinsured Insurance
You may purchase an uninsured/underinsured insurance policy through your car insurance company. This insurance protects you if you are hit by a driver that does not carry insurance, or by a driver in a hit and run. Note that this insurance only covers bodily injury losses if you don’t know who hit you.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
A Hit and Run Driver May Owe You Compensation in Los Angeles
You may be entitled to compensation from the driver who hit you in Los Angeles. It can be difficult to secure this compensation after a hit and run. You can improve your chances of getting full damages by trying to get the vehicle’s license plate number before the driver flees.
Law enforcement officers may also ask you for a description of the driver and their vehicle. Using this information, officers may be able to track down the driver who hit you. Note that a driver who flees the scene may not always be responsible for the collision. The Simmrin Law Group can work to show the other driver was at fault by:
- Interviewing witnesses to the accident
- Visiting the scene of the collision
- Obtaining the police report about the wreck
If the driver who fled the scene can be identified, we can work aggressively to ensure they cover your medical expenses and other losses. Find out more about how we can help by calling (310) 896-2723.
It’s Illegal to Leave an Accident Scene in Los Angeles, CA
Drivers who commit a hit and run in California can face criminal charges. In fact, they may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, depending upon whether or not anyone was hurt in the accident. A driver convicted of a hit and run could face:
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Prison time of up to four years
In addition to paying court fines, a driver who committed a hit and run could be ordered to pay you restitution. This restitution payment may cover your economic losses, like medical bills. It can also cover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Finally, restitution payments may include fines designed to punish the convicted driver.
Find out more about your options for seeking compensation after a hit and run accident by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. We’re standing by to begin working on your case right now.
Talk to a Lawyer About Getting Compensation After a Hit and Run in Los Angeles
If you were involved in a hit and run, you can still get compensation in Los Angeles, CA in some circumstances. The team at the Simmrin Law Group can help you consider your options for getting full damages in this situation. Learn more with a FREE consultation from our car accident lawyers in Los Angeles.
Take the first step to getting compensation for your medical expense and other losses by calling (310) 896-2723 or filling out our online contact form.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form