Hit and run accidents, in which the driver of a vehicle hits another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist and then flees the scene, can be among the worst types of automobile accidents. Not only has the driver caused injuries and damaged the property of another person, but also left the scene, leaving the accident victims without taking any responsibility.
There are some legal options available for the victims of hit and run accidents. It is much easier now than ever before to find hit and run drivers using surveillance cameras, the internet, and other tools. Fortunately, even if the driver is never found, the victim may be able to recover damages through an uninsured motorist claim with his or her own automobile insurance company.
Under California law, no driver involved in an accident should leave the scene if an injury has occurred. Even so, it’s been estimated that about 10 percent of all car accidents involve hit and run drivers. There are a number of reasons those drivers may flee. The driver may have been intoxicated or driving without a driver’s license or insurance. They may not be in the country legally, or could have simply panicked.
If the responsible driver for a hit and run accident is never found, the victim can still pursue financial compensation through his or her own insurance policy, if the policy has uninsured motorist coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage can pay for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and even pain and suffering, depending on the terms of the policy.
Call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles automobile accident attorney at 310-385-0567. My team can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule your free consultation.