A hit-and-run accident can upend your life, leaving you grappling with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. In California, these incidents carry severe penalties, making it essential to seek the guidance of an experienced San Bernardino hit and run lawyer.
Krasney Law Accident Attorneys are here to help you navigate the complex legal process, pursue compensation, and address the many challenges that arise from these incidents.
What is a Hit and Run?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver flees the scene of an accident without providing necessary identification or assisting the injured. In San Bernardino, this behavior is illegal and often prosecuted harshly.
Common reasons for hit-and-runs include unlicensed drivers, intoxicated individuals, or those attempting to avoid legal consequences. Krasney Law is dedicated to helping victims hold these drivers accountable.
Experienced Hit And Run Lawyers in San Bernardino You Can Trust
At Krasney Law, our hit-and-run attorneys combine skill and compassion to offer clients unmatched representation.
We help victims recover damages to cover medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. With a track record of successful cases, Krasney Law is a trusted partner in seeking justice and fair compensation in hit-and-run cases.
What To Do After a Hit And Run Accident
After a hit-and-run accident, it’s essential to follow several critical steps to protect your rights:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Prioritize your health by getting medical help. Injuries may not be immediately visible, so a professional assessment is crucial.
Report the Incident
Notify local law enforcement. Police reports can play a vital role in investigations and insurance claims.
Gather Information
Document as much as possible about the incident, such as vehicle description, location, and witness statements.
Consult with a Hit-and-Run Lawyer
Contact a San Bernardino hit and run lawyer to navigate legal actions and communicate with insurers.
How The Hit and Run Lawyers at Krasney Law Accident Attorneys in San Bernardino, CA, Can Help You
At Krasney Law Accident Attorneys, we have a proven track record of success in helping victims of hit-and-run accidents recover the compensation they deserve.
Our team of dedicated lawyers will:
Conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence and identify the at-fault driver.
Work with your insurance company to maximize your recovery.
File a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, if necessary.
Fight to secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
We understand the importance of acting quickly after a hit-and-run accident. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin working on your case.
California Hit and Run Statistics
In recent years, California has seen a marked increase in hit-and-run incidents. According to a study by the AAA Foundation, nearly one hit-and-run crash occurs every minute in the U.S., with California reporting some of the highest numbers of fatalities in the nation. Krasney Law is prepared to fight for victims impacted by these devastating accidents.
| Year | Total Hit-and-Run Incidents | Fatal Hit-and-Run Incidents |
| 2018 | 2,129 | 217 |
| 2019 | 2,205 | 225 |
| 2020 | 1,872 | 201 |
| 2021 | 2,325 | 238 |
Is a Hit-and-Run Accident Considered a Misdemeanor in San Bernardino, California?
In San Bernardino, hit-and-run incidents involving property damage are usually classified as misdemeanors. However, if injuries or fatalities occur, they may be charged as felonies, leading to severe penalties.
An experienced San Bernardino hit-and-run attorney can help navigate these charges and seek compensation.
Penalties of a Hit & Run
In California, hit-and-run accidents can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the accident’s severity and whether injuries were sustained.
Misdemeanor:
If the accident resulted in only property damage, the driver who fled the scene will likely face misdemeanor charges. Penalties for a hit-and-run misdemeanor may include:
- Up to one year in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Suspension of their driver’s license
Felony:
If the hit-and-run accident resulted in serious injury or death, the driver who fled the scene will likely face felony charges. Penalties for a hit-and-run felony can be much more severe and may include:
- Several years in prison
- Significant fines
- Revocation of their driver’s license
What to Do If You Are Injured in a Hit & Run
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run, seek medical attention, report the accident to the police, and document your injuries. Krasney Law can help pursue a claim to recover costs for medical care, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses.
Common Types of Hit and Run Accidents
Each hit-and-run accident is unique, but some types are more common in San Bernardino:
Rear-End Collisions
Hit-and-run rear-end collisions are frequent and often occur at intersections or during high traffic. In these cases, drivers typically flee due to distractions or impaired driving.
Side-Impact (T-Bone) Collisions
Side-impact collisions, or T-bone accidents, often occur when drivers disregard traffic signals. These incidents can result in severe injuries, and fleeing the scene adds complexity to the case.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in hit-and-runs, often sustaining severe injuries. Krasney Law has experience advocating for pedestrian hit-and-run victims, ensuring they receive justice and compensation.
Bicycle Accidents
Due to limited protection, bicyclists face extreme risks in hit-and-run cases. Krasney Law provides experienced representation for bicyclists affected by negligent, fleeing drivers.
Parked Vehicle Collisions
Collisions with parked vehicles are common in busy areas, but when drivers flee, victims may struggle to recover damages. An attorney can help identify the responsible party and seek reparations.
A Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Can Help Track Down The Other Driver
Hit-and-run attorneys use investigative techniques to locate responsible drivers, including reviewing surveillance footage, analyzing traffic camera data, and working with law enforcement. Krasney Law leverages all available resources to build a case and pursue the negligent party.
These methods may include:
Reviewing surveillance footage:
Checking nearby businesses or residences for security cameras that may have captured the accident.
Interviewing witnesses:
Talking to witnesses who may have seen the accident or the driver’s vehicle.
Working with law enforcement:
Cooperating with law enforcement to investigate the accident and identify the driver.
Types of Compensation in a Hit-and-Run Case
Victims of hit-and-run accidents may be eligible for various types of compensation:
Medical Expenses
Covering immediate and ongoing medical costs is a top priority. Krasney Law fights to recover hospital stays, rehabilitation, and medication expenses.
Lost Wages
Lost income due to time away from work is typical after a hit-and-run injury. We work to secure compensation for both past and future lost wages.
Property Damage
Vehicle repair or replacement costs are typically recoverable. Krasney Law assesses property damage claims to ensure victims receive adequate compensation.
Pain and Suffering
Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, can significantly impact victims. We help calculate and pursue compensation for emotional and physical distress.
What Are Some Common Reasons a Driver Flees the Scene of the Crash?
Understanding why drivers flee is essential for these cases. Common reasons include:
No valid license or insurance
Many drivers flee because they lack proper licensing or insurance.
Driving under the influence
Impaired drivers often panic, fearing arrest.
Fear
Drivers with prior records or outstanding warrants may flee to avoid further legal trouble.
Emotional Distress & Distraction
Some drivers may flee in moments of panic or shock.
What If The Hit and Run Driver Can’t Be Found?
If the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified, victims can still pursue compensation through their insurance policies, such as uninsured motorist coverage.
Krasney Law assists clients with these claims, ensuring they receive maximum compensation despite the absence of the responsible driver.
How a Criminal Case Could Affect Your Personal Injury Claim in California
When a criminal case is brought against a hit-and-run driver, it can impact the associated personal injury claim. Successful criminal prosecution may support a civil case, reinforcing the victim’s entitlement to damages.
Krasney Law works closely with criminal proceedings to bolster personal injury claims.
Why You Need Legal Representation in a Hit-and-Run Case
In the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident, victims may feel overwhelmed by the complexities involved in seeking justice.
Hiring a knowledgeable San Bernardino hit and run lawyer ensures you have someone fighting for your rights, working to identify the responsible party, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
Krasney Law Accident Attorneys possess deep expertise in navigating hit-and-run cases, helping victims gather critical evidence, managing extensive medical documentation, and securing rightful compensation without the hassle of dealing directly with uncooperative insurers.
How California Law Defines “Leaving the Scene” of an Accident
California has stringent laws about remaining at an accident scene.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 20002, drivers must stop and exchange information after any accident, regardless of the severity. Fleeing the scene can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on factors like injuries or property damage.
Krasney Law helps clients understand the legal implications and builds a solid case to emphasize the driver’s responsibility, holding them accountable for any harm or property damage they may have caused.
San Bernardino Hit and Run Lawyer FAQs
1. What should I do after a hit-and-run accident?
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, here are some important steps to take:
- Prioritize safety: Ensure you and any passengers are safe and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and the accident scene, if possible.
- Report to the police: File a police report as soon as possible. Provide as much detail as you can remember, including the other vehicle’s description, license plate number, and the direction of travel.
- Contact your insurance company: Notify them about the accident and provide them with the police report and any other relevant information.
- Consult with a lawyer: An experienced hit-and-run lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
2. Can I still recover compensation if the hit-and-run driver is never found?
Yes, you may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries and property damage through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This type of coverage can help protect you in the event of an accident caused by a hit-and-run driver or an uninsured driver.
3. How long do I have to file a hit-and-run claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including those arising from hit-and-run accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet this deadline.
4. What kind of damages can I recover in a hit-and-run case?
If you’re successful in your hit-and-run claim, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of treatment, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to missed work or reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Damages for physical and emotional pain and suffering.
- Property damage: Compensation for damage to your vehicle or other property.
5. How can a San Bernardino hit-and-run lawyer help me?
A San Bernardino hit-and-run lawyer can help you by:
- Investigating the accident to gather evidence and identify potential witnesses.
- Filing a police report and working with law enforcement to track down the at-fault driver.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
- Representing you in court, if necessary.
- Maximizing your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Client Testimonials
“Krasney Law provided exceptional support during my hit-and-run case. Their team was knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated to my recovery.” – Satisfied Client.
“From start to finish, Krasney Law fought tirelessly for my rights. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome.” – Recent Client Review.
Contact the San Bernardino Hit and Run Attorneys at Krasney Law Accident Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run accident, Krasney Law Accident Attorneys are here to help. Our experienced attorneys provide compassionate, aggressive representation to secure your deserved justice and compensation. Contact Krasney Law today for a free consultation.