Hit and Run Motorcycle Accidents in San Francisco

In San Francisco, it is against the law to leave the scene of an accident without first complying with some basic requirements, such as exchanging information with the other driver. The only exception to this is when someone hits a parked vehicle. In these cases, the law provides that individuals that hit the vehicle can instead leave a note. Fleeing the scene of an accident has both criminal and civil penalties in California, but that provides little relief for accident victims who need compensation for their injuries. So, what should motorcyclists do when they have been hit and the other driver fled? The first step should always be to call a San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer.

The police will pursue any individual who hit a motorcyclist and fled the scene. They may try to determine the driver’s identity by obtaining video footage of the crash or by speaking to eyewitnesses. If law enforcement can find the negligent driver, it is fairly easy to file a lawsuit against that person to get the compensation you need. Unfortunately, that does not always happen.

When law enforcement cannot identify the liable party, you can file a claim with your own insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is not mandatory in San Francisco, but every driver and rider should invest in it. It is not that expensive and can provide the necessary protection in the event that the worst happens. It is always best to speak with a motorcycle accident attorney in San Francisco before speaking with any insurance company representatives.

If you are in a hit and run motorcycle accident in San Francisco, it is important that you receive medical attention right away. Not only should your health be your first priority at this time, but failing to get medical help can hurt any claim you file. It is your responsibility to ensure you do not exacerbate your injuries, even if you do not think you are going to receive any compensation from your insurance company or the liable party.

If you are able to, try to see the driver’s license plate number and if possible, write it down. It is also important to call 911. This will call both medical help and law enforcement to the scene. While waiting for help, speak to any witnesses that saw the crash and write down their contact information. Once you have completed these steps, it is then important to speak to a San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer.

Hit and runs are always challenging, but they are particularly troubling when the accident victim is a motorcyclist who has such little protection. No one should ever face these cases alone, and a motorcycle accident attorney in San Francisco can help. If you have been injured in a hit and run motorcycle accident, the attorneys at the Brod Law Firm can review your insurance policy to determine if you have insurance to cover your damages and conduct an investigation to determine who the liable party is. If you have been hurt, call us today at (800) 427-7020 to schedule a free consultation.