Hit and run accidents are jarring experiences that add layers of confusion and trauma to an already devastating event. If you or a loved one have been involved in such an incident in Los Angeles, understanding your rights and legal options is essential to securing the compensation you deserve.
This guide dives deep into your rights following a hit and run accident inclusive of insurance claims, police reporting, legal action strategies, and pursuing fair hit and run compensation. Additionally, we will explore California laws applicable to cases where victims are run over by car compensation claims arise. As a specialized employee disputes attorney practicing out of San Francisco, I provide professional perspectives on protecting your rights and fighting for justice.
The Nature of Hit and Run Accidents in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, with dense traffic and busy streets, unfortunately experiences frequent hit and run incidents. These accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without identifying themselves or stopping to offer assistance. Victims suffer not only physical injuries but also emotional distress and financial burdens.
Common types include:
- Pedestrians struck and left injured
- Motorists involved in rear-end or side collisions
- Cyclists and motorcyclists hit and abandoned
Such offenders might flee for fear of legal consequences, DUI charges, or lack of insurance. However, California law considers hit and run a serious criminal offense, and victims retain recourse options.
Your Immediate Steps After a Hit and Run in Los Angeles
When faced with an accident where the other driver flees:
1. Prioritize Safety and Emergency Care
- Seek medical treatment immediately, even if injuries seem minor at first since some symptoms manifest later.
2. Report the Incident to Police
- File a report with the Los Angeles Police Department promptly. Provide any identifying details (license plate fragments, vehicle description, direction of travel).
3. Document the Scene
- Take photos of the accident area, vehicle damage, injuries, and surroundings.
- Collect witness contacts whenever possible.
4. Notify Your Insurance Provider
- Inform your insurer about the hit and run; your policy may include uninsured motorist coverage, crucial for compensation when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
Types of Hit and Run Accidents & Their Legal Implications in California
California law classifies hit and run offenses primarily into misdemeanor and felony categories, each carrying specific consequences:
In hit and run cases involving injuries, victims can pursue hit and run compensation regardless of whether the driver is caught, typically through uninsured motorist insurance or victim compensation funds.
California Legal Protections for Hit and Run Victims
California Vehicle Code §20002 criminalizes hit and run. If caught, drivers face fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
More importantly for victims, the California uninsured motorist (UM) coverage mandates insurers cover damages when the responsible party cannot be identified.
Additionally, victims may pursue a personal injury lawsuit seeking:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral and burial costs in fatal cases
Typical Damages in Hit and Run Cases
Case Study: Los Angeles Pedestrian Hit and Run
In 2023, a Los Angeles resident was struck while crossing a busy intersection by a driver who fled. The victim suffered multiple fractures and traumatic brain injury. Despite initial challenges locating the driver, the victim pursued a claim utilizing uninsured motorist benefits and legal action against the city for insufficient crossing controls. The case settled confidentially for over $1.5 million.
While this exact case was not handled by Ladva Law, we regularly assist clients facing similar hurdles helping secure maximum hit and run compensation even when defendants are elusive.
Hit and Run Accident Statistics in Los Angeles: The Growing Crisis (2025)
Los Angeles faces a disturbing surge in hit and run accidents, making it one of the most dangerous cities in California for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, hit and run collisions in Los Angeles have increased significantly with fatal hit and run incidents surging by over 23% from 2022 to 2023 alone, claiming more than 100 lives in that span.
Key facts include:
- A hit and run occurs every 18 minutes in Greater Los Angeles.
- Hit and run accidents account for about 50% of all traffic collisions in the area, dramatically higher than the national average of 11%.
- Vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists disproportionately suffer from hit and run incidents, especially in South Los Angeles neighborhoods.
- Distracted driving, speeding, and poor enforcement compound the problem despite initiatives like Vision Zero aiming to reduce traffic fatalities by 2025.
These sobering statistics underscore the importance of knowing your rights and legal options if you fall victim to a hit and run.
How to Maximize Your Compensation Claim
- Retain experienced legal counsel immediately. Expert attorneys gather evidence, engage investigators, and deal directly with insurers.
- Submit timely injury and property damage claims to your insurer’s uninsured/underinsured motorist division.
- Request all medical records and expert evaluations for accurate damage valuations.
- Preserve all communication and documentation for legal proceedings.
- Consider claims against government entities if roadway design or maintenance contributed.
Professional Insight: Why You Need Legal Guidance
Hit and run cases pose special challenges often involving unidentified drivers, complicated insurance claims, and emotional trauma. It requires a dedicated legal team skilled in California accident law, insurance negotiations, and trial advocacy.
At Ladva Law, we advocate fiercely for victims mobilizing resources to uncover drivers, litigate complex claims, and secure the compensation necessary for recovery and closure.
Fight for Your Justice After a Hit and Run
If you or a loved one have suffered due to a hit and run in Los Angeles, don't wait to act. Every moment matters in preserving evidence, protecting your rights, and fighting for fair hit and run compensation.
Contact Ladva Law for a free consultation. You deserve a legal team that will pursue justice relentlessly because your pain deserves recognition and your recovery deserves respect.
In hit and run accidents, silence only protects the perpetrator. Let us be your voice for justice.
