Laguna Hills Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer 

Statistics show that in the United States, there are more than six million auto accidents every single year. From this figure, about three million people suffer injuries and two million experience permanent injuries. Sadly, approximately 15 percent of all auto accidents in the United States are hit and run accidents. Within all these statistics, most people do not leave the scene of the crime, however this is not always true.

Unfortunately, hit and run accidents are an increasing problem in the country. Hit and run situations create complications and confusion for the driver left behind. Still, many people in California do not realize that they do have uninsured motorists’ coverage. There are additional ways to attempt recovery for damages suffered from being in an accident, and a knowledgeable car accident attorney will know of those ways.

If you have suffered through a car accident in Laguna Hills, swiftly call an experienced Laguna Hills hit-and-run accident lawyer who can assist you with your case.

Reporting a Hit-and-Run Accident

When involved in a hit and run accident within California, the law requires that people report the incident, where there are any injuries or where the damage to property is valued at $750 or more. Someone has to report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles, as well as to proper authorities.

Misdemeanor and Felony Hit-and-Run Accidents

All motorists are familiar with the basic laws and rules of the road.  Drivers generally understand that they are required to pull over to the side of the road after there has been an accident.

Within the state of California, if someone is convicted of a hit-and-run offense, it may be either a misdemeanor or a felony.  Misdemeanor offenses have the following requirements:

  • Driver leaves the scene of an accident
  • The accident caused property damage
  • The driver failed to identify themselves to the other driver

A felony hit and run offense is more serious. It occurs when there is any kind of injury sustained from the accident. There are countless reasons why a motorist would decide to leave the scene of the crime. Here are some of the common reasons why someone might flee the scene:

  • Driver is an illegal alien
  • The motorist is uninsured
  • Driver was intoxicated on alcohol or drugs
  • Driver is in trouble with the law
  • A pedestrian or a bicyclist was struck
  • Driver does not have a license

Common Hit-and-Run Injuries

The types of injuries that one might sustain from a hit and run accident are numerous, and often severe. Set forth below is a short list of the possible injuries one could suffer.

  • Loss of a limb
  • Paralysis
  • Broken bones
  • Internal injuries
  • Head injury
  • Spinal cord injury
  •  Brain damage
  • Disfigurement

Contact a Laguna Hills Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Being a victim of a hit and run accident can be a frightening experience. Hit and run auto accidents are too frequent, and the numbers of injuries and deaths continue to rise. If you been injured in a hit and run accident, call a Laguna Hills hit-and-run accident lawyer right away. An experienced lawyer can work zealously on your behalf.