Hit-and-Run Accidents: Legal Hurdles and How to Overcome Them

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but when the other driver flees the scene, it adds an extra layer of difficulty. Hit and run accidents often leave victims feeling overwhelmed, especially with the uncertainty of whether the at-fault driver will be found. Identifying the responsible party, filing an insurance claim, and proving damages in hit and run cases can be challenging.

In this article, we'll explore the key challenges of hit and run accidents, including proving fault, dealing with insurance, and the legal steps victims can take to seek compensation.

Does Insurance Cover Hit and Run?

One of the biggest obstacles in hit and run cases is tracking down the responsible party. If there are no eyewitnesses or surveillance footage, how can you obtain crucial details such as the vehicle's make, model, or license plate number? Without the at-fault driver present, proving that another party was responsible for the crash can be complex. Insurance companies may question whether another driver was involved at all or if the accident was caused by the victim's own negligence. This makes gathering evidence—such as police reports, witness statements, and dashcam footage—essential.

Victims of a hit-and-run accident often rely on uninsured motorist coverage to recover compensation. But here's where the challenges begin. Some insurance companies require proof that another driver was involved. If the evidence they're looking for isn't presented, they may attempt to undervalue your claim or, worse, deny it. This is why having a legal professional by your side is important.

As you can see, without identifying the responsible party, recovering compensation can be a bit tricky. So, what happens in a hit and run case? Let's start from the beginning.

What to Do in Hit and Run Case

Here is a brief overview of what to do after a hit and run to protect your rights:

Gather evidence and collect witness statements.

Contact the police and file an official report. This documentation is crucial for insurance claims and any legal action.

Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Getting checked by a doctor ensures proper documentation for your claim.

Speak to a personal injury attorney who can help you explore your legal options.

Every case is unique, but an experienced attorney can assess your situation and provide tailored legal guidance specific to your case. For instance, identifying the at-fault driver may open the door to additional options, including filing a lawsuit to hold them accountable.
On the other hand, if the responsible driver isn't identified, your compensation will most likely depend on your own insurance coverage. It's important to remember that insurance companies are not on your side, as their goal is to minimize payouts.

Without legal representation, insurance companies can easily take advantage, and this is actually more common than you think. Unfortunately, they're notorious for pressuring victims into accepting a low settlement, which hardly ever covers medical expenses and other damages. However, an attorney can negotiate aggressively with your insurer to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to, advocating for your rights every step of the way. Keep in mind that seeking legal assistance can help you maximize your compensation and hold the responsible party accountable.

Need a Personal Injury Lawyer in North Hollywood or Glendale?

Dealing with the aftermath of such an accident can be a nightmare, but it doesn't have to be. If you're facing challenges filing a claim for a hit and run accident, we're just a phone call away. Our attorneys at Yepremyan Law Firm can protect your rights and ensure you receive fair and just compensation for your damages.

As an established personal injury law firm in North Hollywood, we proudly represent clients throughout Southern California. Since 1998, we've helped thousands of clients recover millions of dollars. With 24/7 support, our firm provides immediate guidance for injured victims who need legal assistance. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in North Hollywood or a Glendale injury lawyer today.

Yepremyan Law Firm works on a contingency basis for all personal injury matters. This means you pay nothing unless your case has been settled or won—no recovery, no fee.

*No Legal Advice Intended. This website includes general information about legal issues and developments in the law. These materials have been prepared for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal advice pertaining to any particular legal matter. Use of and access to this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and Yepremyan Law Firm and any of its attorneys, employees, or associates.