How a Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Can Help You (Even When the Fleeing Driver Has Not Been Identified)
Pedestrian accidents warrant pursuing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver; hit-and-run accidents are no different. However, proving liability will be more complicated than other types of car accidents.
The unique challenges of a hit-and-run accident make partnering with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney highly valuable–especially when the fleeing driver has not been identified.
Here is how a Bakersfield hit-and-run lawyer can navigate the complexities of filing a pedestrian accident claim and secure the compensation victims deserve.
The Benefits of Working with a Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
In a typical car accident, the insurance company of the at-fault driver compensates the victim for sustained damages. However, hit-and-run cases are not as straightforward.
Victims will face many changes; legal representation alleviates these challenges. Pedestrian accident lawyers provide a range of benefits, including the following.
Accurate Claim Evaluation
It is vital to understand that compensation for a pedestrian accident extends beyond physical injuries, property damage, and lost wages. Emotional stress, mental anguish, and other forms of pain and suffering must also be considered.
Hit-and-run accidents can cause victims post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which requires therapy. Compensation must account for these types of medical expenses, as well.
An experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer will accurately evaluate cases to help clients understand the true value of their personal injury claims, taking into account the extent of physical, emotional, and financial losses.
Additionally, skilled attorneys are capable of negotiating for maximum recovery, as they possess a deep comprehension of insurance policies and know how to deal with a difficult insurance company.
Specialized Legal Expertise
When choosing legal representation, remember that specialized expertise in hit-and-run accidents matters. Therefore, hit-and-run accident attorneys should be the only option, instead of attorneys who only handle car accident cases.
Pedestrians who were stuck by a vehicle while crossing the road at a non-designated crosswalk may presume they were at fault, and as a result, do not qualify for compensation. However, this is not always the case.
Pedestrian accident lawyers have in-depth knowledge of California traffic laws and regulations, such as the Freedom to Walk Act or comparative negligence when it comes to “jaywalking.”
Maintaining a continuous knowledge of the recently enacted laws and complexities of the legal system when it comes to California hit-and-run accidents is paramount. Strong representation ensures that a victim’s rights are protected and sets a crucial precedent in winning a pedestrian accident case.
Gathering Evidence
Meticulously gathered evidence is one of the strongest elements in securing a full and fair settlement for hit-and-run accidents.
A personal injury law firm with a positive success rate in winning pedestrian accident cases will possess the resources to conduct a comprehensive investigation. This affords a pedestrian accident lawyer to gather evidence, such as witness testimony, accident scene photos, and a police report to support the claim that the other party is liable for damages.
When necessary, law firms work with accident reconstructionists to establish a compelling narrative of how the event occurred, proving liability and supporting the claim for demanded compensation during negotiations.
Their attention to detail and history of handling similar motor vehicle accident cases will help identify crucial evidence that may be otherwise overlooked by someone with less experience.
Effective Legal Strategy
Every motor vehicle accident is unique, demanding a personalized approach to meet the needs of each individual. Similarly, a hit-and-run lawyer must be able to strategize and anticipate the unique variables that could affect a case’s outcome.
By delving into the specifics of the pedestrian accident, a dedicated legal team will scrutinize over any liability factors and identify all legal avenues. This empowers them to anticipate potential challenges, mitigate risks, and how to best determine the optimal course of action.
With the client’s best interest in mind, hit-and-run accident lawyers assess if a settlement offer is sufficient enough to cover the full extent of damages. This maximizes the chances of securing the compensation a victim who has suffered a serious injury deserves.
Court Representation
If negotiations reach an impasse and a fair settlement amount cannot be agreed on, a lawsuit can be filed, and the case goes to trial.
The court system is complicated, especially for California hit-and-run cases. The process will consist of cross-examining witnesses before a judge and jury, and then presenting enough substantial evidence to prove fault.
A hit-and-run accident attorney will present a compelling case, establishing that the defendant’s negligence and behavior to flee the accident scene warrant maximum compensation. This includes justifying why economic damages, as well as non-economic damages, are quantifiable.
Peace of Mind and Sincere Emotional Support
Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer provides the emotional support hit-and-run victims deserve during such a troubling time.
After an accident, there will be much uncertainty, but a compassionate law firm can provide clients with clarity and reassurance that everything will work out.
In addition to superior legal services, victims should be provided with peace of mind knowing that their hit-and-run case is being handled by a team of professionals truly invested in their well-being.
What Happens if the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Not Found?
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, immediately 911 regardless if you think you were partially at fault. This allows a police report to be logged and the event to be investigated.
If there were any physical features of the driver or characteristics of the vehicle, share those details, as this will help locate the hit-and-run driver.
By calling for help, Bakersfield law enforcement can alert local body shops throughout Kern County about incoming repairs to look for and check nearby traffic cameras or business surveillance cameras to get a license plate number.
However, if the hit-and-run driver is not identified, there are alternative options to compensate for injuries and other damages.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage May Be Used for California Hit-and-Run Accidents
An injured pedestrian does not need to be driving in a car to qualify for benefits. If the victim does carry uninsured motorist coverage through their own insurance company, it may be utilized in a pedestrian accident case involving a hit-and-run driver.
Additionally, the policy can be applied to other motor vehicle-related accidents, like bicycle accidents. Coverage only applies under certain conditions, such as:
- There must be direct physical contact between the pedestrian and the fleeing vehicle
- The accident must be reported to the police within 24 hours
- The accident claim must be filed with the insurance company within 30 days
It is important to seek immediate legal advice from a pedestrian accident lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected and that compensation is not jeopardized.
Bakersfield Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was struck by a driver who fled the accident scene, you may still be able to locate the at-fault driver and recover compensation.
At Horizon Accident Lawyers, our pedestrian accident attorneys specialize in hit-and-run cases, utilizing our legal expertise to hold the at-fault party accountable and fight for every dollar owed to you.
Because hit-and-run cases follow strict guidelines in how uninsured motorist coverage can be utilized, it is imperative to consult with a pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible.
Please schedule a free consultation, so we may begin guiding you through the next steps and get you the justice you deserve.
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