Hit and Run Accidents: Consequences
Hit and run accidents are not only a criminal offense but also a civil matter that can lead to severe legal consequences for the person who flees the scene. If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit and run accident in the Los Angeles or West Covina area, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced hit and run attorney like Oscar Ischiu, Esq. to protect your rights and represent you in court.
Criminal Consequences
A hit and run accident is considered a criminal offense in the state of California. The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident that results in injury or death is legally obligated to stop and provide their personal information and insurance details to the other parties involved. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges that include fines, imprisonment, and even a criminal record. Furthermore, if the accident results in injury or death, the penalties can be even more severe, including increased fines and longer prison sentences.
Protection after a Hit and Run Accident
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit and run accident, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. The first step is to call the police immediately and report the accident. This will ensure that a police report is filed and that an investigation is conducted to track down the hit and run driver. In addition, if you have any information or evidence that can help identify the driver or the vehicle involved, you should provide this to the police.
Civil Consequences
In addition to criminal charges, hit and run accidents can also result in civil liability for the driver who flees the scene. If the driver is identified and found to be at fault for the accident, they may be held liable for any damages or injuries that resulted from the accident. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In the event that the driver is not found, victims of hit and run accidents may still be able to recover damages through their own insurance policies. Many car insurance policies include coverage for uninsured or underinsured motorist, which can help cover damages in the event of a hit and run accident. However, it is essential to speak with a hit and run attorney to understand the specific coverage options available to you and to ensure that you are getting the full compensation you are entitled to.
Evidence Gathering
Gathering evidence is crucial in hit and run accident cases. Our experienced attorneys will work to gather all the necessary evidence to prove liability, such as:
- Eyewitness statements
- Surveillance footage
- Physical evidence
- Expert testimony
- Police Report.
By gathering and analyzing all the available evidence, our attorneys can build a strong case to hold the responsible party accountable and to maximize the compensation you receive for your damages.
Insurance company’s tactics
Insurance companies are for-profit organizations, and they may try to take advantage of hit and run accident victims. They may try to downplay the extent of your injuries, question your version of events, or even deny your claim outright. That’s why is it important to have a hit and run attorney on your side to negotiate with the insurance company and to ensure that your rights are protected. Our attorneys have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies, and we know how to get our clients the compensation they deserve.
Contact an Experienced Hit and Run Attorney
The best way to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve is to contact an experienced hit and run attorney like Oscar Ischiu, Esq. Our firm has been representing clients in hit and run accident cases for many years and we know how to navigate the complex legal system to get the best outcome for our clients. We will work tirelessly to gather evidence and build a strong case to hold the responsible party accountable and help you get the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. If you have been involved in a hit and run accident in the Los Angeles or West Covina area, do not hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation.
