Salinas, California is known for its agriculture that is available throughout the world. Because of this, large trucks and passenger vehicles are always making their way through the city from one destination to the next. With large highways like Highway 101 and Highway 183 running right through Salinas, it is no surprise that serious accidents happen weekly. Hit-and-run accidents are some of these catastrophic collisions that come with severe consequences.
Maison Law tirelessly works to protect the rights of those who have been seriously injured in California hit-and-run accidents. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face the aftermath of an accident, especially when a driver fled the scene and left you with severe injuries. As you focus on your physical recovery, we will handle the stressful aspects of your injury claim. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information regarding your accident case.
California Vehicle Code 20001
Under California law, a hit-and-run can be seen as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If the accident ends in injuries or fatalities and the driver chose to flee the scene, it will typically be charged as a felony under California Vehicle Code 20001. If the driver is caught by police and charges result, you can use the police reports as evidence in your claim. This can help you work toward the damages that you deserve after a negligent hit-and-run collision.
Common Injuries Suffered by California Hit-and-Run Victims
Hit-and-run accidents tend to be incredibly severe accidents with devastating injuries. This is due to the fact that victims of these accidents typically do not receive the care they need for some time after an accident when the responsible driver flees the scene. Some of the most common injuries that result from these accidents include the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Amputations
- Burns
- Neck and back injuries, including whiplash and paralysis
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Broken bones
These accidents can be long-lasting and painful in nature. On top of this, they could cause you to miss out on vital time in the workplace. This is why it is crucial that you understand your legal options so that you can get started on working toward your financial recovery if you have been injured.
Steps to Take After a California Hit-and-Run Accident
Car accidents can be extremely stressful times and hit-and-run drivers make these situations even more stressful. Luckily, there are some steps that you can take after a hit-and-run accident to ensure that your rights are protected directly after and in the weeks or months following one of these collisions:
- Call 911 so that the police can report your accident.
- Request an ambulance so that you and any others involved in the accident can receive medical attention.
- Never try to follow the driver, as they could be dangerous.
- Gather important evidence such as the make and model of the vehicle, descriptions of the driver, and anything else you may remember.
- Speak with any witnesses and receive their contact information.
- Take photographs and videos at the scene of the accident.
Taking these steps can protect the future of your claim if you choose to move forward with a personal injury claim.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Many individuals who are involved in a hit-and-run accident will not have a lot of information about the driver. It is not uncommon to feel intimidated and as if you have no real options moving forward, but this is far from the truth. If you have been injured in a hit-and-run accident, you may not know that your insurance covers uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. These vital types of coverage can help you recover damages for your injuries even if the driver was not apprehended for their role in your accident.
If the driver was apprehended by police, you have the right to bring a personal injury claim against them for your recovery. Speaking with a legal advocate who has handled these cases in the past can help you better understand your rights.
Contact a Salinas Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Today
The aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be a confusing and devastating time in your life, especially if it has led to serious injuries. As you are working on your physical recovery, you should not have to worry about the many bills that pile up against you.
Our Salinas car accident lawyers at Maison Law are here to help you protect your rights following a hit-and-run accident caused by a negligent driver. We offer you a free and completely confidential case review at this time. You will never be charged upfront for any fees when you speak with us. Please contact us today for more information on how to move forward with your claim.
