Legal Fighters - Accident Attorneys

What Happens If You’re Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can leave you shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. Unlike typical car accidents, where you can exchange insurance information with the other driver, a hit-and-run brings unique challenges. The other driver has fled the scene, leaving you to deal with the physical and emotional aftermath and the worry of how you’ll be compensated for your injuries and other losses. A Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyer can guide you through this challenging process and help protect your rights.

How Common Are Hit and Run Accidents?

How Common Are Hit and Run Accidents?

Hit-and-run accidents are, unfortunately, far more common than many people realize. According to recent data, the United States sees approximately  737,000 hit-and-run crashes annually. California, with its dense roadways and population, consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of these incidents. Los Angeles, in particular, experiences some of the country’s highest hit-and-run rates, making it a troubling issue for drivers and pedestrians alike.

The consequences of a hit-and-run can be devastating. Victims often face not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma and financial burdens. When drivers flee the scene, they leave victims to handle mounting medical bills, vehicle damage, and prolonged recovery alone. Tragically, pedestrians and cyclists are at the greatest risk in these accidents, with a significant portion of hit-and-runs leading to severe injuries or fatalities.

Why Do Some Drivers Hit and Run?

Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims feeling confused and betrayed, often asking one crucial question—why would someone flee the scene? While the decision to drive away is never justified, understanding the reasons behind these actions can shed light on this troubling behavior.

One common reason is fear. Drivers may panic after causing an accident, fearing legal consequences, fines, or even jail time. This fear can be heightened if the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, has outstanding warrants, or is in violation of traffic laws. For some, the immediate urge to avoid arrest overshadows their responsibility to stay and help.

Another factor is the lack of proper insurance. Many drivers who hit and run do so because they are uninsured or underinsured, worried about financial repercussions. Others might simply experience a moment of sheer panic, overwhelmed by the shock of the accident, and make a split-second decision to flee.

Regardless of the reason, leaving the scene of an accident only compounds the harm. Victims are left to endure injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma, often without the support they deserve. Staying at the scene and taking responsibility can make all the difference—not just legally, but as a moral act of human decency.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, you may be understandably frustrated. Will the driver ever be held accountable, and will you be compensated for your damages? The good news is that there are clear steps you can take in the days and weeks after the accident to protect your health, your rights, and your future. 

Even if you couldn’t gather evidence at the scene or contact law enforcement right away, it’s not too late to strengthen your case and make sure you don’t carry the financial burden of someone else’s negligence.

Here’s what to do after a hit-and-run accident—from prioritizing your medical care to gathering evidence, navigating insurance challenges, and ultimately seeking justice.

The Immediate Aftermath of a Hit-and-Run

Being hit by another vehicle is scary enough, but realizing the driver has left the scene adds another level of distress. Ideally, you would gather photos of the accident, witness contact information, and details about the other vehicle at the scene. However, we know that in the chaos of the moment, this is not always possible.

It’s also possible that you didn’t notice your injuries right away. Many people feel a surge of adrenaline after an accident, which can mask pain or discomfort. That’s why the steps you take in the days and weeks after your accident are so important. You can still build a strong case, even if you couldn’t take immediate action.

Here’s what to focus on after the dust has settled.

Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Your health should always come first. Even if you feel “fine” at first, it’s crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident. Many injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time.

Visiting a medical provider also creates an official record of your injuries, which can be critical if you decide to pursue compensation later. Share all symptoms, no matter how small they may seem. For example:

  • If you feel a lingering headache, tell your doctor, as it could indicate a concussion.
  • If you’re experiencing back or neck pain, mention it, as it could point to spinal injuries.

Whether you visit a hospital near Glendale, such as Adventist Health Glendale, or a local urgent care center in Los Angeles, getting evaluated by a medical professional is essential.

Document Everything You Can

Document Everything You Can

Once you’ve ensured your health is stable, start documenting as much as possible about the accident. This evidence could make all the difference in your case. Even if you didn’t gather information at the scene, you can still take steps to fill in the gaps.

Here’s what to document:

  • Your Injuries: Take photos of any visible injuries and keep a diary detailing how they’re affecting your daily life. Are you struggling to work, sleep, or perform everyday activities? Write it all down.
  • Damage to Your Vehicle: If your car was damaged in the accident, snap photos from multiple angles. Save any receipts for repair estimates or repairs already completed.
  • The Accident Location
    If you remember the exact location of the hit-and-run, return to the site (if it’s safe to do so) and take pictures. For example, if the accident happened near the Americana at Brand in Glendale, take photos of the street, nearby landmarks, or any skid marks left on the road.
  • Witness Accounts: Did anyone see the accident happen? Reach out and ask for their contact information. Witness statements can be incredibly valuable when piecing together what happened.

Report the Accident

Even if you didn’t call the police right after the accident, it’s not too late to file a report. Law enforcement can create an official record of the incident, which is helpful if you’re trying to identify the driver or working with insurance companies. When filing the report, share all the details you remember, no matter how small.

For example:

  • Did you catch a glimpse of the car color or make, such as a blue Toyota Corolla or a white Ford truck?
  • Did you notice a partial license plate number or bumper sticker?

Every detail can help the Glendale Police Department or Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in their investigation.

Notify Your Insurance Company

After a hit-and-run accident, your insurance company becomes a key player. Call them as soon as possible to report the incident and start the claims process. However, proceed with caution—insurance companies are often more focused on protecting their bottom line than looking out for you.

Here are some tips for dealing with insurance:

  • Stick to the facts when describing the accident. Don’t speculate about fault or exaggerate details.
  • Review your policy to see if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage can help cover your medical bills and damages when the at-fault driver remains unidentified.
  • Avoid signing anything or accepting a settlement without consulting an attorney first. Insurance companies may offer a low amount, hoping you’ll accept it quickly.

If the accident occurred in the greater Los Angeles area, large insurance providers like State Farm, GEICO, or Allstate may be involved. It’s important to be vigilant and not let adjusters pressure you into accepting less than you deserve.

Get Legal Advice Early

Navigating a hit-and-run claim on your own can be overwhelming. A personal injury attorney experienced in hit-and-run cases can guide you through the process and protect your rights. They can help:

  • Gather evidence to identify the driver, such as reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses like Ralphs or Trader Joe’s.
  • Prove the other driver’s negligence, even if they’re not found.
  • Negotiate with your insurance company to secure a fair settlement.

An experienced lawyer will also have access to resources that can strengthen your case, such as accident reconstruction experts or medical specialists.

Don’t Wait to Act

California has a  two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, which means you’ll need to take legal action within two years of the accident. However, waiting too long can weaken your case, as evidence may disappear, and witness memories may fade.

By acting quickly—seeking medical care, documenting evidence, and consulting with a lawyer—you put yourself in the best position to receive the compensation you deserve.

Protect Yourself Against Insurance Tactics

Unfortunately, many hit-and-run victims encounter challenges with insurance companies. Adjusters may try to downplay the severity of your injuries, blame you for the accident, or question why you didn’t gather more evidence at the scene.

Don’t fall for their tactics. Stick to your story, provide the evidence you’ve gathered, and rely on your legal team to counter any pushback. Remember, insurance companies are not your friends—they are a business.

The Emotional Toll of a Hit-and-Run

It’s not uncommon to feel anger, frustration, or even fear after a hit-and-run accident. Being left on the side of the road while the other driver takes off can feel deeply unfair. On top of that, you may be dealing with pain, financial stress, and an uncertain future.

Know that these feelings are valid, and you don’t have to go through this alone. Lean on family and friends for support, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if anxiety or trauma from the accident persists. There is no shame in addressing your mental health while you recover physically.

Why Accountability Matters

Holding hit-and-run drivers accountable is not just about financial compensation—it’s about justice. When drivers flee accident scenes, they endanger others and avoid taking responsibility for their actions. By pursuing your case, you’re sending a message that this behavior is unacceptable.

The laws in California are clear. Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and drivers who do so face severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Seeking justice for yourself can also help prevent future accidents by highlighting the seriousness of these offenses.

How Legal Fighters Can Help

Glendale personal injury lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, you deserve skilled legal representation. At Legal Fighters, our Glendale personal injury lawyer team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll that these accidents can take. That’s why we’re committed to fighting for you every step of the way.

With years of experience representing clients in Glendale and the greater Los Angeles area, we’ve helped thousands of victims recover the compensation they deserve. Our team works with some of the top attorneys and experts in the nation to build cases that get results.

Insurance companies may try to take advantage of you, but we won’t let them. With over $2.5 billion recovered and a proven track record of success, we’ll fight tirelessly to get you the medical care and financial compensation you need to move forward.

You don’t have to suffer in silence. Contact us today at  (800) 210-0000 or through our online form for a free and confidential consultation. Together, we’ll ensure justice is served and that no hit-and-run driver walks away without accountability.