Even if the driver flees, you may still have a path to compensation.
California's Hit-and-Run Laws
Leaving the scene of a crash involving injury is a crime in California. Fleeing drivers face serious criminal penalties in addition to civil liability.
The law reflects how dangerous and harmful it is to abandon an injured person.
What to Do Immediately
Call 911, get medical care, write down everything you remember about the vehicle and driver, and look for witnesses and cameras.
Quick action improves both your safety and the chance of identifying the driver.
Finding the Fleeing Driver
Surveillance footage, witness accounts, partial plate numbers, and vehicle debris can help police and investigators identify a hit-and-run driver.
Sometimes the driver is found; sometimes recovery comes from your own coverage.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage Steps In
If the driver is never found, your uninsured motorist coverage often treats the incident like a crash with an uninsured driver, providing a path to recovery.
Prompt reporting is usually required to access this coverage.
Documenting a Hit-and-Run
Photograph the scene and damage, note the time and location, and preserve any video. The more detail you capture, the stronger your claim.
Reporting promptly to police and your insurer is essential.
Protecting Your Recovery
Whether the driver is found or not, careful documentation and timely claims protect your right to compensation.
A free case review can explain your options after a hit-and-run.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed California attorney.