Hit and Run Accident in Los Angeles? Here’s What to Do Next

Were You a Victim of a Hit and Run in Los Angeles? Protect Your Rights Now

Hit and run accidents are an unfortunate reality in Los Angeles, leaving victims feeling shocked, vulnerable, and unsure about their next steps. A hit and run occurs when a driver collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or object and flees the scene without stopping to exchange information or provide assistance.

Understanding your rights and taking immediate action is crucial to protecting yourself physically, financially, and legally.

Hit and Run Accidents: A Growing Crisis in Los Angeles

The statistics on hit and run accidents are alarming. Over 2,000 fatal hit and run crashes occur in the United States every year, with California leading the nation in these incidents. Shockingly, California’s hit and run rate is 44% higherthan that of Texas, the second-highest state on the list.

Given the rising number of these accidents, it’s essential to be prepared and know what to do if you ever find yourself in this situation.

Understanding the Legal Consequences of a Hit and Run in California

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious criminal offense under California Vehicle Code § 20001. Depending on the severity of the accident, a hit and run driver may face:

• Misdemeanor Charges – Punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or a fine ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.
• Felony Charges – If the accident causes injury or death, penalties increase to up to four years in state prison and/or a fine between $1,000 and $10,000.

These strict laws are in place to hold negligent drivers accountable and provide justice to victims.

What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident in Los Angeles

If you are involved in a hit and run accident, following these essential steps can help protect your safety, strengthen your legal claim, and improve your chances of identifying the fleeing driver:

1. Stay Calm and Move to Safety – Take deep breaths, assess the situation, and move to a safe location if you’re in immediate danger (e.g., the middle of the road).
2. Check for Injuries – Examine yourself and any passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately if medical attention is needed.
3. Gather Key Details – If possible, note the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number. Dash cam footage can also be valuable evidence.
4. Find Witnesses – Speak with bystanders who may have seen the accident. Collect their contact details and ask if they recall any important details about the hit and run vehicle.
5. File a Police Report – Contact law enforcement and provide them with all the available details. A police report strengthens your case and may help track down the driver.
6. Check for Security Footage – Businesses or homes nearby may have security cameras that captured the accident. Politely request access to any available footage.

Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene of an Accident?

IfThere are several reasons why drivers choose to flee after causing an accident, including:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – To avoid DUI-related penalties.
• Driving Without a License – Fear of legal consequences for driving illegally or on a suspended license.
• Outstanding Warrants or Legal Issues – Some drivers have active arrest warrants, are on probation, or have prior convictions and want to avoid further trouble.

Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious offense, and victims deserve justice.

Common Injuries in Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries, such as:

• Neck Injuries – Pinched nerves, whiplash, or fractured vertebrae.
• Bone Fractures & Torn Ligaments – Common in pedestrians and cyclists.
• Head Trauma – Including concussions or traumatic brain injuries.
• Back Injuries – Chronic pain or severe spinal damage requiring surgery.
• Deep Lacerations – Can lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement.
• Internal Injuries – Damage to vital organs or internal bleeding.
• Permanent Disabilities – Loss of mobility, amputations, or paralysis.
• Wrongful Death – Tragically, some hit and run accidents result in fatalities.

Victims of hit and run accidents often require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation, leading to significant financial burdens.

Seeking Legal Assistance After a Hit and Run Accident

If you or a loved one were injured in a hit and run accident, you shouldn’t have to suffer alone. At Tulekyan Law, our skilled car accident attorneys can help you pursue maximum compensation for:

• Medical expenses – Emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost wages – Compensation for missed work and loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering – Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

Our team will handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Contact Tulekyan Law Today for a Free Consultation

Recovering from a hit and run accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Tulekyan Law, we are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation! Let us guide you through the legal process and hold the negligent driver accountable.