Step-by-Step: What to Do After a Hit-and-Run
- Call 911: Report the crash and request emergency services. Get a police report—it’s critical for your claim.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of your vehicle, the location, and any damage. Look for nearby cameras (doorbell or traffic cams).
- Write Down What You Remember: License plate digits, vehicle make/color, direction of travel, and time of day can all help investigators.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the hit-and-run. Don’t speculate or assign blame. Just report the facts.
- Contact a Car Accident Lawyer: If the at-fault driver can’t be found, your uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Legal help ensures your claim is handled properly.
What the Law Says About Hit-and-Run in California
California law requires all drivers involved in an accident to stop and exchange information. Failing to do so is a crime under:
- Vehicle Code §20002 – Property damage hit-and-run (misdemeanor)
- Vehicle Code §20001 – Injury or death hit-and-run (felony)
You also have 2 years to file a personal injury claim under California’s statute of limitations (Code of Civil Procedure §335.1).
What If the Driver Is Never Found?
You may still be covered. If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, your own policy may pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair or replacement
We’ve handled hundreds of hit-and-run cases through UM arbitration. It’s not a simple process, but we know how to get results.
Real Client Example: $175,000 UM Settlement
Our client in Los Angeles was rear-ended at a red light. The other driver sped off. Security footage from a nearby building confirmed the impact, and medical records supported soft tissue injuries. We pursued an uninsured motorist arbitration and recovered $175,000 for her pain, wage loss, and medical care.
FAQs
Can I still get paid if they never catch the driver?
Yes. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may be able to recover damages even if the driver is unidentified.
What if I didn’t get a police report?
You should file a delayed police report as soon as possible. It’s not too late—especially if you act quickly and preserve evidence.
Will my insurance rates go up?
Not usually, if you’re not at fault. California law limits insurers from raising premiums for uninsured motorist claims unless you contributed to the crash.
What if I don’t have UM coverage?
We can explore other options—including MedPay, collision coverage, or civil court. In some cases, surveillance footage or witnesses help us identify the driver.
You’re Not Alone. We’re Here to Help.
Being the victim of a hit-and-run is deeply unsettling. But you’re not powerless. Focus on recovery—and let us fight for your financial and legal justice. Our team works on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we win.
