Hit & Run Accidents in San Diego
Unfortunately, car accidents are extremely prevalent in our society. Usually after a collision or hit, the drivers exchange contact and insurance information. However, exchanging or obtaining the information of a driver who leaves the scene of the accident is not usually possible. A hit and run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing contact information to the other driver.
California Laws
Whether the accident resulted in property damage or personal injury changes the severity of the charge. However, regardless of what has been harmed, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident. California law also prohibits drivers from failing to identify themselves or giving false information after an accident. Hit and run accidents occur everywhere, all the time.
The laws surrounding hit and runs vary from state to state. California has two main laws regarding hit and run accidents:
- California Vehicle Code §20002 (Misdemeanor): Any California driver involved in an accident that results in only property damage must immediately stop their vehicle at the nearest safe location.
- California Vehicle Code §20001 (Felony): Any California driver involved in an accident that results in injury or death to another person must immediately stop their vehicle at the scene of the accident.
What to do if you have been in a hit and run accident
Being involved in any car accident is a traumatic and stressful experience. When many people are in stressful situations, their bodies shut down. In the event of a hit and run, it’s important to remain calm and get the help you need.
If you have been hit by another driver and that driver flees, following these steps may help you reach the best possible outcome:
- Call 911 for any bodily injuries
- Take note of unique and identifiable characteristics of the other car or driver, license plate number, make, model, etc.
- Move your car to a safe location
- Take any pictures of damage done to persons or property
- Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer
Following the aftermath of a hit and run accident, filing an insurance claim is important. However, it would be in your benefit to contact a lawyer before talking to insurance to see what your insurance may or may not cover and how to obtain the maximum amount of coverage. In addition to help with insurance, an attorney can assess the details of your claim and see if you may be able to recover in court.
Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at Hariri Law Group if you or a loved one has been involved in a hit and run collision.
(858) 345-6289
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