San Diego Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

San Diego Hit and Run Accident Attorney

While cruising down San Diego’s roads and highways, most people aren’t thinking about whether or not they are going to encounter a severe collision. They are even less likely to believe the person responsible would leave the accident scene. Unfortunately, there are many hit-and-run collisions reported every year in California. It seems that almost every day in our local news we read about or see a hit and run collision. 

If you are injured in a San Diego hit-and-run accident, speak with Attorney Pajman Jassim and Attorney Parisima Jassim of Jassim Law about your potential legal options and how you may recover compensation for your damages. With over 20 years of experience protecting our communities and fiercely advocating for our clients, we have the resources and tools to provide you with the best possible outcome for your claim. Our San Diego hit and run accident lawyers are here to defend your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

How Does California Legislation Define Hit-And-Run Accidents?

When a collision occurs, and any drivers leave the scene without exchanging information, the law categorizes the accident as a hit-and-run. Fleeing from the accident scene can lead to significant consequences for any driver that leaves the scene. Under California vehicle code 2002, the duty of drivers engaged in collisions is defined as follows:

“The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to any property, including vehicles, shall immediately stop the vehicle at the nearest location that will not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.”

Those leaving the accident scene will generally face misdemeanor charges with various financial penalties and jail time, depending on their specific circumstances. However, in more severe instances where the accident leads to serious injuries or fatalities, the negligent driver may be charged with a felony. Regardless of their charges, those injured by their actions have the right to hold them accountable for their damages. If you are in need of a San Diego hit and run accident attorney, contact us today and schedule a free case review. 

Steps to Protect Your Rights After a Hit-And-Run Accident in San Diego

It can be incredibly frustrating when a driver fails to stop following an accident, leaving you confused about the situation and your next steps. Even though you may not have the opportunity to exchange information, there are several methods available to help identify and prove the other driver’s involvement in the accident, including:

Document the Accident

Any information you can collect about the accident will assist your San Diego hit and run accident lawyers and the police in finding the driver. The license plate number, description of the individual, color of the vehicle, type of vehicle, and accident location are essential to an accident claim.

Receive Medical Attention

While you may believe you suffered no major injuries, scheduling an appointment with your doctor is essential. Some injuries may not show symptoms until the damage becomes life-threatening. Obviously, if you’ve suffered more serious injuries seek medical attention right away.

Speak With Your Attorney

One way to protect your rights and potential compensation is by partnering with a San Diego hit and run accident attorney. When you have a professional legal representative acting on your behalf, they will ensure your rights are respected, and you receive the best possible outcome for your case.

At Jassim Law, we have handled numerous hit and run accidents. This includes representing motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other motorists. 

Did you know, if you have Uninsured Motorist Insurance coverage, your OWN insurance carrier may provide coverage and compensation even if the at fault motorist cannot be located? Your Uninsured Motorist Coverage often applies whether you were a pedestrian, bicyclist, motorcyclist, or driving in your passenger car. Contact a hit-and-run accident attorney in San Diego today to assist you with your claim. 

After an accident, drivers are responsible for stopping, exchanging information, and contacting emergency assistance if needed. Disregarding these obligations not only jeopardizes the well-being of others but also can result in criminal liability. The vast majority of hit and run drivers are eventually caught, only making matters worse for them. Sadly, it is often discovered that these hit and run drivers were intoxicated at the time of the collision, not insured, or otherwise prohibited from driving in the first place. 

What Damages Can You Recover in a Hit-And-Run Accident Claim?

A common question when filing a hit-and-run accident claim refers to how much potential compensation a client can recover. It’s essential to recognize every accident is unique, and damages depend on your injuries. If the at fault driver can be located, your compensation will additionally depend on what type of insurance coverage the at fault driver has. 

If the other driver is not located, or they are uninsured/under-insured, we will look to your own insurance carrier to determine if you have Uninsured/Under-insured (UIM) coverage. We always recommend that you purchase UIM coverage to protect you in the event you are involved in a hit and run, or if the at fault party has minimal insurance coverage.

However, the following are a few examples of common recoverable damages in a successful hit-and-run claim:

• Non-Economic damages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Anxiety/Grief/Humiliation
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Physical Impairment
  • Inconvenience
• Past and future medical expenses
  • Cost of prescription medication
  • Surgical procedures
  • Emergency medical transportation
  • Long-term, at-home assistance
  • Rehabilitation/physical therapy
  • Cost of prosthetic implants
• Past and future lost wages or income
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of consortium
• Wrongful death damages
• Punitive damages

The damages you suffer in a hit-and-run accident may limit your ability to enjoy activities you once cherished and perform essential daily tasks. You deserve justice and to hold the irresponsible party accountable for their actions. Immediately speak with one of our San Diego hit and run accident lawyers at Jassim Law to start your hit-and-run accident claim today.

Just because the at fault party illegally fled the scene does NOT mean you have no recourse. In fact, you should contact an attorney right away to start the investigation process. Always purchase UIM (uninsured/under-insured) coverage!

Speak With Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers in San Diego Today 

It’s incredibly frustrating to suffer a major accident, even more so when the other party does not take accountability for their actions and illegally flees the scene. Our Jassim Law San Diego hit and run accident attorneys understand your challenges after a hit-and-run accident and will guide you through the complex process. 

After over 20 years of experience fighting for those across California, we have built a solid network of community connections and resources. Learn more about our firm and schedule a free consultation with one of our car accident attorneys in San Diego by calling (619) 630-2680 or completing our contact form today.