Downey Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

When you’re hit by another vehicle, your first thoughts usually center around the physical impact of the collision, but when the responsible driver flees, the situation can go from bad to worse. Victims of hit-and-run accidents face both physical and emotional trauma, as well as uncertainty over how they’ll get the compensation they need — but that’s where a Downey hit-and-run accident lawyer can step in.

The team at Heimanson & Wolf, LLP is dedicated to guiding you through challenging situations, ensuring your rights are protected, and securing the financial support you need for a full recovery.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents happen when the driver who causes a crash leaves the scene without providing any contact information or helping the other people involved. In California, the law requires drivers to stop at the scene of an accident, provide identification, and help anyone who’s injured — failure to do so is a serious offense and can lead to criminal charges.

Not only are there criminal consequences for the person responsible, but victims of hit-and-run accidents often face serious physical, financial, and emotional hardships.

These types of accidents can leave you with costly medical bills, damage to your vehicle, lost wages, and even emotional pain, which is why having a knowledgeable hit-and-run accident lawyer on your side can not only hold the at-fault driver accountable but also help make sure you get the recompense you deserve.

What Should You Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

After a hit-and-run accident, it’s very important to stay calm and take certain steps to protect yourself and your rights. Here’s what to do:

1. Call 911. Make sure law enforcement and emergency medical services are immediately contacted. Officers can investigate the scene and file an official report, which will be valuable for your claim.
2. Gather information. If you’re able, try to get as much information as possible. This could include the make, model, color, and license plate number of the fleeing vehicle. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
3. Take photos. Document the scene of the accident, your vehicle, and any injuries sustained. Photographs can serve as important evidence for your case.
4. Contact your insurance company. Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible about the accident. They might be able to help with compensation, even if the responsible driver is not found — but don’t take any settlements until first speaking with an attorney.
5. Seek medical attention. Even if you don’t feel injured right away, some injuries, like whiplash, might not develop until hours or days later. Getting checked by a doctor not only makes sure you receive treatment, but also documents your injuries.

At Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, our team of experienced Downey hit-and-run accident lawyers can help you deal with all of these steps and restore your peace of mind.

The Challenges of Hit-and-Run Accident Claims

Dealing with a hit-and-run accident can be complicated as it’s sometimes difficult to identify the driver who left the scene. However, California law offers several avenues for victims to pursue in order to seek compensation, even when the person responsible remains unknown.

In California, your own insurance policy could provide coverage through your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage applies when you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, and the responsible driver can’t be found. If the driver is later located, their insurance could also cover your damages.

However, filing a claim with your own insurance company may not always provide the full scope of compensation that you need. That’s why the team here at Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, gets right to work trying to identify the hit-and-run driver through investigation, witness statements, and surveillance footage. This could potentially allow us to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company or go after a personal injury claim if needed.

Types of Compensation in Hit-and-Run Accident Cases

At Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, our team is committed to making sure you receive the compensation and support you need, and victims of hit-and-run accidents could be eligible for several kinds of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses, such as the cost of emergency care, stays in the hospital, surgeries, and any follow-up care needed for your injuries.
• Lost earnings. If injuries preclude you from working, you could be eligible for compensation for the wages you lost.
• Pain and suffering. This is the physical and emotional distress the accident caused, like chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or posttraumatic stress disorder.
• Vehicle repair costs. If the accident damaged your motor vehicle, you may be able to recover the costs to repair or replace it.
• Other out-of-pocket expenses. This can include things like prescription medication, transportation costs to medical appointments, and home health care services.

Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, can help you calculate the full extent of your losses and work to secure the compensation you’re entitled to.

FAQs About Hit-and-Run Accident Law in Downey,CA

Can I File a Claim if a Hit-And-Run Happened in a Parking Lot?

Yes, you can file a claim even if the hit-and-run happened in a parking lot. Many parking lots have security cameras that might have captured the accident, and witnesses might have seen something that could help. Reporting the accident to the police — and your insurance company — as soon as possible is very important to protect your rights.

What if I Was Hit by a Stolen Car in a Hit-And-Run Accident?

If the car that hit you was stolen, the person responsible may not have insurance, which makes it difficult to get compensation from their provider. In this case, your uninsured motorist coverage can help cover your medical expenses and property damage. If the thief is caught, they may be held personally liable, but collecting damages from them can be a challenge.

Can I Recover Damages if a Pedestrian Caused My Accident and Ran Away?

Yes, if a pedestrian caused your accident — for example, if they ran into the road, making you swerve — you might still be able to recover damages. Your own insurance policy, including collision coverage or uninsured motorist coverage, could help cover your losses, and if the pedestrian is identified, they could also be held legally responsible.

What if My Hit-And-Run Accident Involved a Rideshare Driver?

If a rideshare driver hit you and fled the scene, there may be additional insurance options available. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage for their drivers, but the coverage depends on whether they were actively working at the time of the accident. A lawyer can help figure out the optimal way to pursue compensation if you find yourself in this situation.

Contact Heimanson & Wolf, LLP

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Downey, California, don’t hesitate to contact Heimanson & Wolf, LLP. Our experienced team is here to help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and pursue compensation.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.