California Personal Injury Lawyers Blog
Being involved in a car accident in Los Angeles can be a very traumatic experience. You will most likely feel very shaken and scared. These feelings can be compounded if the responsible party leaves the scene of the collision without identifying himself or herself. If you find yourself the victim of a hit and run accident, there are a few simple things you should know to help protect your rights and get compensation for your hit and run injuries.
First, and before a hit and run collision occurs, you should be sure you have Uninsured Motorist (often referred to as UM) coverage on your insurance policy. This coverage will take the place of the responsible party’s coverage and you can seek compensation through your own insurance company without any detriment to you.
Second, after this collision occurs, if you are physically able to, you should do your best to write down the other vehicle’s license plate number and a description of the vehicle and driver. The police (or our law office) can use this information to find out who the owner of the car was at the time of the collision.
Next, if you have a cell phone, call 911 and give the 911 operator as much detail about the other car and person as you can. If you need an ambulance, make sure to tell the 911 operator. If you are able to get a picture of the hit and run vehicle before it is gone, and only if it can be done safely, you should attempt to do so.
If there are any witnesses, be sure to write down all of their information, including name, address and all of their telephone numbers and email addresses. Also, ask if any of the witnesses were able to get a license plate number or any other description of the car or person that hit you.
Afterwards, the accident should be promptly reported to your insurance company. It may be best to have an attorney do this for you or at least advise you how to do this, including things you should not say. Things you should not say to your insurer can be very important! Our office can provide this valuable assistance for you.
Doing each of these things, including having the right insurance coverage to begin with, should help you get the compensation and justice that you deserve. You should be sure you have UM coverage now and always review your insurance coverage with your insurance agent or attorney at least yearly. We offer this service to our clients.
If you have been injured in a hit and run collision, we recommend that you call our office for immediate advice and assistance. You should feel free to save our direct telephone number – 818.222.3400 — in your car or in your cell telephone under “Attorney” to be ready if an accident occurs.
We have been handling hit and run accident cases for over 30 years and we shall fight to get you fully compensated for your damages.