Sacramento Hit and Run Car Accidents

In the wake of a car accident, all motorists are expected to stop and exchange information with the other driver. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to stop, leaving the other party without needed support. That leaves many people paying out of pocket for their injuries.

If you have been struck in a hit-and-run accident, you may have specific challenges ahead. Those challenges can make it difficult to recover following your serious injuries. Below are a few key differences and challenges that may arise in the aftermath of a devastating hit-and-run car accident.

Insurance Coverage Following a Hit-and-Run Accident

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 433 fatal and injury crashes were categorized as hit-and-runs in Sacramento. Of those hundreds of accidents, many may never have clear evidence of who caused the accident. Because of this, these injury victims should be able to rely on the liable party’s insurance coverage for their recovery, as the state follows a fault insurance system under California Insurance Code – INS § 11580.1.

All California residents are generally required to have specific insurance coverage, according to the California Department of Insurance. You may also have uninsured motorist coverage, which can cover your needs in a hit-and-run accident. This coverage typically offers financial coverage for cases where you are unable to seek compensation from the other party. Keep in mind, however, that insurance companies are still for-profit businesses. That means they may still place their profits over your recovery.

Steps You Can Take After a Hit and Run

When a hit-and-run driver strikes you, you may feel shocked and unsure of where to turn. Fortunately, you can take certain steps to protect your health and safety and safeguard your rights.

Seek Medical Care

When you get struck by a hit-and-run driver, you may need to seek out medical care for the many injuries you have suffered. Even if you feel fine, consult a medical professional because you may be suffering delayed or invisible injuries that you do not currently feel. Acting now can also help you build evidence that you were injured in the accident.

Report Your Accident

Following your accident, be sure to report it to the police immediately. Any accident involving injury, death, or significant property damage should be reported to the police within 10 days, according to the CA Department of Motor Vehicles. You typically will want a report for hit-and-run accidents, in particular, as these accidents can result in criminal charges against the at-fault party.

Gather Evidence Against the Hit-and-Run Driver

If you are able, gather any evidence possible at the accident scene. This evidence could potentially help identify the at-fault party and prove that your injuries and damages are as severe as described.

Talk to Your Lawyer About Holding the At-Fault Party Accountable

When a hit-and-run driver strikes you, it can be challenging to hold them accountable for their actions. Worse, your insurance company may also deny you the compensation you are due. That does not mean you are out of options when seeking help from a Sacramento personal injury attorney.

At Rosenthal Law, we investigate the details of your hit-and-run case, pursuing compensation from the hit-and-run driver. We are prepared to negotiate with the insurance company to help you recover the settlement to which you are entitled. Get more information about the claims process when you reach out for a free consultation by calling or filling out our convenient contact form.