Over 6 million car accidents take place in the United States each year and approximately 11% of all motor vehicle accidents are hit and run car accidents. Recent studies show that up to 700,000 car accident cases each year are a result of hit and run incidents. Over the past decade, hit and run accidents have actually decreased on average (statistics reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), however, in California, the hit and run rates have increased in the past decade. In order to make sure you do not become a victim of a hit and run accident, immediately consult a California car accident attorney who can help you through this process and find those at fault and hold them responsible for damages.
A hit and run is defined as a motor vehicle accident where the at-fault party “runs” after the incident. This means that the at fault party does not exchange any insurance or contact information, making it impossible to track them down and hold them liable for any damages that may have occurred. The worse kind of hit and run occurs when an innocent driver, passenger, or pedestrian is killed as a result of another driver’s negligent behavior. The federal law requires the at-fault driver to leave all contact information (usually on the windshield) for the affected driver and/or car if there were no witnesses at the scene. Before you think about running from the site of an accident, just remember that hit and runs can be charged with civil and criminal penalties. Other than paying for damages done to the other party, you may be faced with additional fines, jail time, and suspension of your drivers license among various other punishments that may be far worse than dealing with the car accident when it happens.
Car accident lawyer Emery Ledger has many years of experience with personal injury cases and car accidents, and many people do find themselves in a difficult situation, left with either bodily injuries and/or property damage as a result of another driver. The most important thing after a hit and run is to receive all proper medical treatments. Then, contact the nearest police department and request for a report to be filed. If you can recollect a description of the driver, vehicle, and/or license plate this can all be used to help the police and attorneys find the driver(s) responsible for the damage.
Many times, drivers find that their insurance plans do not cover hit and run accidents, therefore if you are offered the option to include this in your coverage, it is always safe to do so. However, it is also important to contact an experienced car accident attorney right away following the hit and run. Insurance companies are trained to keep as much money within the company and you may need an attorney to fight for you.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit and run car accident, please contact the Law Offices of Ledger & Associates. We have experienced attorneys who can give you a free consultation. Please call (800) 300-0001 or visit the website at www.Ledgerlaw.com
