Hit and Run Car Accidents

Getting into a car accident is always a traumatic event. However, when the other driver does not remain at the scene of the accident, it can be even more frustrating and troubling for accident victims. Under the California Vehicle Code, it is illegal for drivers to leave the scene of an accident before performing certain duties. These include exchanging contact and insurance information with other drivers involved. Accident victims often think they have no recourse after a hit and run accident, but this is not true. A San Francisco hit and run car accident lawyer can help those injured in a crash claim the compensation they need to deal with their serious injuries.

After any car accident in California, those hurt must file an accident claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Accident victims must prove that the other driver was negligent in order to claim compensation from the insurance company. This is difficult even when the identity of the other driver is known. When the other driver’s identity is unknown because he or she fled the scene of the accident, pursuing the compensation you need for your losses can seem impossible.

It is important to remember that all hope is not lost. A San Francisco hit and run car accident lawyer may be able to investigate the crash and determine who the missing driver was. Law enforcement will also conduct their own investigation into the accident to determine the identity of the other driver.

Even when these investigations are unsuccessful, accident victims may still be able to file a claim. Drivers who choose to purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance when they first take out their policy can file a claim with their own insurance company after a crash with a hit and run driver. This insurance is not mandatory in San Francisco, however, and many drivers opt out of it.

The moments after a car accident are always some of the most crucial. After a hit and run accident, they become even more important.

Due to the fact that you did not get a chance to confirm the driver’s identity, what you see immediately following the accident is going to be extremely important to your case. Try to identify the make and model of the vehicle that hit you, the color of the vehicle, and most importantly, the vehicle’s license plate number, if you can. Also make a note of any unique characteristics of the vehicle, such as bumper stickers or large dents.

All of this can be helpful to law enforcement and your hit and run car accident attorney in San Francisco as they investigate the crash, and it might be the only evidence you have.

If you have been hurt in a hit and run accident, it is important to understand you may still be able to claim compensation. At the Brod Law Firm, we are the hit and run car accident attorney in San Francisco who have the necessary resources to fully investigate your crash. We will put them all to use as we try to identify the driver who hit you so you can claim the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 and get the legal answers you need to the many questions you have.