Los Angeles traffic is a daily reality, from bumper-to-bumper congestion on the 405 to busy surface streets in Downtown LA. With so many cars on the road, accidents happen every day. But one of the most frustrating and devastating situations is a hit and run when another driver causes a crash and then flees the scene without stopping.
If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Los Angeles, you may feel angry, scared, and unsure of what to do next. You might be dealing with car damage, injuries, medical bills, and no clear way to hold the at-fault driver accountable.
The good news? You do have legal rights, and knowing what to do immediately after a hit and run can help you protect them.
What Is a Hit and Run Accident in California?
Under California law (Vehicle Code § 20001 and § 20002), a hit and run occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop, identify themselves, and provide reasonable assistance to anyone injured.
There are two main types:
- Property Damage Only: When the driver leaves after damaging a car, building, or other property without providing their information.
- Injury or Death: When the driver flees after causing injury or death, a felony offense in California.
Both are illegal, but injury or death cases carry harsher criminal penalties, including jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Why Hit and Run Accidents Happen So Often in Los Angeles
Unfortunately, LA has one of the highest rates of hit-and-run incidents in the country. Common reasons include:
- Driving without insurance or a valid license
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Outstanding arrest warrants or probation violations
- Fear of financial responsibility
- Panic and poor decision-making in the moment
None of these excuses justify fleeing, but they do explain why many hit-and-run victims never get the closure of confronting the driver responsible.
What to Do Immediately After a Hit and Run Accident in Los Angeles
Your actions in the minutes after the crash can make a huge difference in your ability to recover damages.
1. Prioritize Safety
Move to a safe location if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and check yourself and passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.
2. Call the Police
In Los Angeles, you are required to report a hit and run to law enforcement. Even if the damage is minor, a police report will be crucial for your insurance claim and any future legal action. Give the officer as many details as possible:
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- License plate number (even partial info helps)
- Description of the driver
- Direction the car fled
3. Gather Evidence
If it’s safe to do so, take photos or videos of:
- Your vehicle’s damage
- The scene of the accident
- Skid marks or debris
- Any visible injuries
Talk to witnesses and get their contact information.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, injuries like concussions, whiplash, or internal damage may not show symptoms right away. Getting checked by a doctor protects your health and creates documentation for your case.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company and Contact an Attorney First
While it’s important to report the incident to your insurance provider promptly, remember that insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is often to minimize payouts.
Before making any recorded statements or agreeing to a settlement, contact a Los Angeles hit and run accident lawyer. Esther The Lawyer at Estrada Law Group, we can guide you through the claims process, protect your rights, and make sure you don’t say anything that could weaken your case.
Your Options After a Hit and Run
If the driver is caught, you can file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against them for damages. But even if they are never found, you may still be able to recover compensation through:
- Uninsured motorist coverage (UM)
- Collision coverage
- Medical payments coverage
A lawyer can help you explore every available source of recovery.
Challenges in Hit and Run Cases
- Identifying the driver without witnesses or video evidence
- Proving liability when the driver denies involvement
- Collecting compensation if the driver is uninsured or has few assets
This is why professional legal representation is critical in hit and run cases.
How Technology Can Help Solve Hit and Runs
Police and attorneys often use:
- Traffic and security camera footage
- Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) systems
- Witness cell phone photos and videos
- Social media posts from bystanders
Acting quickly can increase the chances of locating the driver before evidence is lost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run Accidents in Los Angeles
Who is responsible for paying my damages if the driver isn’t found?
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, your personal car insurance may cover damages. A lawyer can help you make the claim properly.
Can I still file a claim if I only have the other car’s license plate number?
Yes. Police can use the plate to identify the registered owner, which may lead to finding the driver.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California follows a comparative fault system, meaning you may still recover damages, but your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Do I have to go to court?
Not always. Many cases are resolved through insurance claims or settlements without a trial.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In California, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If a government entity is involved, you only have six months.
Quick Legal Terms Explained
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Insurance that protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance or can’t be found.
Liability: Legal responsibility for damages caused in an accident.
Negligence: Failing to act with reasonable care, resulting in harm to others.
Damages: The money you can recover for injuries, property loss, and other harm.
Quick Tip
If you’re involved in a hit and run, keep all medical bills, repair estimates, and any letters from insurance companies. These documents are essential evidence for your case.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a hit-and-run accident in Los Angeles, don’t wait. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case can be.
Contact Esther The Lawyer for a free consultation and get the support you deserve.
📞 Phone: +1 (323) 922-5086
📧 Email: info@estradalawgroup.com
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