If you or someone you love has been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s critical to act quickly to protect your rights. With the help of a seasoned Yuba City hit and run lawyer, victims can work to secure compensation for their injuries, damages, and suffering.
At the Law Offices of Steve Gimblin, we understand these cases’ complexities and dedicate our practice to ensuring hit-and-run victims get the justice they deserve.
Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims feeling overwhelmed and helpless, especially if the responsible party isn’t immediately identified.
That’s why the support of an experienced attorney is essential. We can assist with investigating the accident, gathering crucial evidence, and guiding you through the legal process.
Learn more about our dedication to clients and case results.
What is a Hit and Run?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver in an accident leaves the scene without providing information, assisting injured parties, or reporting the incident to law enforcement.
These situations can arise from car accidents, pedestrian strikes, and even collisions with parked vehicles.
In California, leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling these duties is illegal, and the penalties vary depending on whether the incident involved property damage or personal injury.
California’s hit-and-run laws, like Vehicle Code § 20002a VC, classify hit-and-run as a misdemeanor if only property is damaged. However, when injuries or fatalities occur, the crime can escalate to a felony. Working with a Yuba City hit and run attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation, even if the driver responsible has not been identified.
What To Do After a Hit And Run Accident
If you’ve been involved in a hit and run, taking the following steps can be critical to your safety and legal recovery:
Prioritize Safety:
Move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 if you or others need medical attention.
Document the Accident Scene:
Collect as much information as possible, such as license plate numbers, vehicle descriptions, and eyewitness accounts.
Report the Accident:
Notify law enforcement, providing them with all available details to document the incident.
Seek Immediate Medical Care:
Even if you feel fine, some injuries, such as whiplash and other soft tissue injuries, may not present symptoms immediately.
Consult an Attorney:
Speak to an experienced Yuba City hit and run attorney to help manage the next steps, from contacting insurance companies to pursuing legal action.
These actions can help secure a stronger foundation for your case, whether or not the other driver is located.
How The Hit and Run Lawyers at Law Offices of Steve Gimblin in Yuba City, CA, Can Help You
The Law Offices of Steve Gimblin in Yuba City have the experience and resources needed to handle complex hit-and-run cases. Our firm conducts thorough investigations and leverages resources to identify missing drivers. It works tirelessly to build compelling cases on behalf of our clients.
Key Ways Our Lawyers Assist:
- Gathering video surveillance and witness statements
- Working with law enforcement to track down the responsible party
- Managing insurance claims and negotiations for optimal settlements
- Navigating California’s complex hit-and-run laws
We understand the urgency of these cases and are dedicated to guiding our clients through each step of the process. If you’ve been injured or suffered damages, contact us to explore how we can help.
Penalties for Hit and Run in California
California hit-and-run penalties vary depending on the severity of the accident. Under California Vehicle Code § 20002, a hit-and-run causing only property damage is classified as a misdemeanor.
However, if the incident results in bodily harm or death, the offense is considered a felony, with potential fines, jail time, and severe penalties for the offender.
For instance, misdemeanors carry potential penalties, including:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Jail time up to six months
- Restitution to cover damages
Felony hit-and-runs can result in even harsher consequences. An experienced Yuba City hit-and-run lawyer can help you navigate these legal specifics and pursue compensation while holding the responsible party accountable.
What to Do If You Are Injured in a Hit & Run in California
An injury from a hit-and-run accident can complicate the recovery process. Seeking immediate medical attention is essential, as it helps document injuries that will be critical evidence in your case.
From here, contact a knowledgeable Yuba City hit and run attorney to begin building a case on your behalf. Your lawyer will manage communications with insurers and investigate the accident while you focus on recovery.
Damages You Might Recover
The aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be devastating. Not only are you dealing with the physical and emotional trauma of the accident itself, but the added challenge of finding the at-fault driver can make securing compensation even more difficult.
The Law Offices of Steve Gimblin can help you recover the damages you deserve, even in these challenging situations.
Here are some of the damages you might recover in a hit-and-run accident:
Medical Expenses:
This includes all costs of treating your injuries, such as ambulance fees, hospital stays, doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages:
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes current and future lost wages if your injuries are expected to impact your earning capacity long-term.
Property Damage:
If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, you can recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Pain and Suffering:
This includes compensation for the physical and emotional pain you’ve experienced as a result of the accident. This can encompass pain, discomfort, scarring, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Emotional Distress:
The stress and anxiety associated with a hit-and-run accident can be significant. You may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Common Types of Hit and Run Accidents
Hit-and-run incidents can involve a range of scenarios, including:
Rear-End Collisions
Frequently occurring at intersections, rear-end collisions often leave victims with whiplash or soft tissue injuries, causing physical and financial challenges.
Side-Impact (T-Bone) Collisions
In these dangerous accidents, drivers who flee make it challenging for victims to seek justice and recover damages.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to hit-and-run accidents, leading to severe injuries and, unfortunately, high fatality rates.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists, lacking protection against vehicles, are often left with life-altering injuries in hit-and-run cases.
Parked Vehicle Collisions
Hit and runs involving parked vehicles can still cause significant property damage and emotional distress for the owners left with repair costs.
A Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Can Help Track Down The Other Driver
While finding the at-fault driver is more challenging in hit-and-run cases, it’s not impossible.
Our experienced Yuba City hit-and-run lawyers will diligently track down the driver using various methods, such as reviewing police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and working with accident reconstruction specialists.
What Are Some Common Reasons a Driver Flees the Scene of the Crash?
There are several reasons why a driver might flee the scene of an accident:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driving without a valid license
- Driving a stolen vehicle
- Fearing the consequences of the accident
Proving Liability in a California Hit-and-Run Case
Even if the at-fault driver is not identified, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Our Yuba City hit and run lawyers can help you understand your UM/UIM coverage and navigate the claims process.
Can Hit-and-Run Accidents Be Dismissed?
No. Hit-and-run accidents are considered crimes in California. The police will investigate the accident, and the at-fault driver may face criminal charges and civil liability.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in California?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two years. However, it’s essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident to preserve your rights and maximize your chances of recovery.
California Hit and Run Statistics
California has some of the highest rates of hit-and-run incidents in the nation. The following statistics highlight the concerning frequency and consequences of hit-and-run accidents across the state:
| Statistic |
Data |
| Annual Fatalities in Hit-and-Runs |
Over 300 deaths per year in CA |
| Injury Rates |
19.7 injuries per 100,000 residents |
| National Ranking |
California ranks #1 in hit-and-runs |
| Percentage of All Crashes |
12% of all CA accidents are hit-and-run |
| Most Affected Areas |
High rates in Los Angeles and Bay Area |
These numbers reflect the significant impact that hit-and-run incidents have on California residents yearly. Victims of these accidents often face extensive physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
An experienced Yuba City hit and run lawyer, like those at the Law Offices of Steve Gimblin, can help guide victims through the legal process to pursue justice and compensation.
Yuba City Hit and Run Lawyer FAQs
1. Should I get a lawyer for a hit-and-run accident?
Yes, a lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of hit-and-run cases, from handling insurance companies to investigating the accident.
2. What if the driver is never found?
Your lawyer can explore options through uninsured motorist coverage to help secure compensation.
3. Can I sue for a hit-and-run accident?
Yes, you can pursue a civil claim for damages, even if the responsible party faces criminal charges.
4. How long do I have to file a hit-and-run claim in California?
The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in California is generally two years from the accident date.
5. What are the penalties for a hit-and-run in California?
Depending on the damages caused, penalties can range from fines to jail time, especially in cases involving injury or death.
Client Testimonials
At the Law Offices of Steve Gimblin, we are proud to have helped countless clients achieve the justice and compensation they deserve. Here’s what a few of our clients had to say:
“Steve Gimblin and his team were incredibly supportive during one of the toughest times of my life. They fought hard to get me the compensation I needed after a hit-and-run that left me injured. Highly recommend them!”
— Sandra L., Oroville, CA
“I never thought I’d see justice after a hit-and-run driver left me with serious injuries. Steve Gimblin’s firm was relentless in tracking down every detail and securing a settlement. They truly care about their clients.”
— James R., Chico, CA
If you’ve been impacted by a hit-and-run accident, contact the trusted Yuba City attorneys at Law Offices of Steve Gimblin. With proven success and compassionate support, we are here to help you take the next step toward recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Contact the Yuba City Hit and Run Attorneys at Law Offices of Steve Gimblin Today
If you’ve been affected by a hit-and-run accident, let the Law Offices of Steve Gimblin help you pursue justice and compensation. With a dedication to client care and in-depth legal expertise, our team is here to support you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you take the first steps toward recovery and justice.
