Hit and Run Investigation Process in California 2023
When a driver flees an accident site without giving information or helping the victims, it is referred to as a hit-and-run in California. Hit-and-run incidents in this state are treated severely and may carry substantial legal repercussions. A few general steps can be taken in a 2023 hit-and-run investigation process:
- Report the Hit and Run
- Investigate the Scene
- Notify Insurance Company
Report the Hit and Run
If you end up in a hit-and-run, it is advisable to call 911 and get first aid to treat injuries right away. You also have the option of calling the non-emergency hotline for the local police force near the hit-and-run if you believe you do not have injuries, or your injuries do not seem severe. Keep in mind, at that moment, your adrenaline may make it feel like you are not injured when in reality you may be. When you call, be as detailed as you can about the hit-and-run. Provide the scene's location, the make and model of the car that hit you, and any other information that can assist police in finding the culprit. The accident scene will be visited by law authorities, who will investigate the hit-and-run. Give them all your details, including witness statements, pictures, videos, and other information that can assist them in identifying the driver. After investigating the collision, law enforcement will write a police report. For your records, make sure to get a copy of the police report. You must inform your insurance provider as soon as you can about the hit-and-run incident with all details you have regarding the collision and any injuries sustained. This is where an experienced lawyer can come in and make the insurance claim for you.
Investigate the Scene
Finding the hit-and-run driver and assembling evidence for your insurance claim both depend on thoroughly investigating the location of the collision. Be sure it is safe to investigate the accident scene before you start. Wait for police enforcement to come if the crash happened on a busy road before attempting to gather evidence. Capture pictures and videos of the accident scene, including your car's damage, road debris or skid marks, and other significant facts. Proving the hit-and-run driver's identity and supporting your insurance claim can be helpful. Obtain statements from any witnesses who saw the accident and get their contact information in case you need to get in touch with them again. Check with surrounding businesses or households to see if they have any film of the collision if it happened in an area with surveillance cameras. This may be useful in locating the hit-and-run offender. At the accident scene, do not tamper with or relocate any evidence, including tangible evidence like skid marks, debris, and other things. After checking the site, contact law enforcement for more information and give them any further information or proof you may have amassed. Thoroughly examining a hit-and-run accident scene might take a lot of time and effort. To ensure that all pertinent evidence is gathered and the hit-and-run motorist is identified, it is crucial to exercise caution and work closely with law enforcement.
Notify Insurance Company
To report a hit-and-run, contact your insurance company's claims department or insurance agent. The phone number is typically listed on your insurance policy or the insurance provider's website. Be ready to give your insurance carrier details about the collision, such as the scene of the accident, the day and time it occurred, a description of the damage your car experienced, and any injuries you suffered. Provide your insurance provider with a copy of any police reports you've already submitted and with any pictures, videos, or other documentation of the hit-and-run incident. This might expedite the claims procedure and bolster your claim. Your case will be given to a claims adjuster by your insurance provider. To obtain an estimate for the repairs to your car, cooperate with the claims adjuster, give them any additional information they require, and follow their instructions. An experienced lawyer can also step in at this point and make the insurance claim for you. This way, the lawyer can set the scene and ensure that the insurance company does not try to twist the facts and put you at fault for the incident.
Forward Law Group–The Law Firm that Works in Your Best Interest
For details on your coverage, Forward Law Group can help you review your insurance policy. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can use it to help with the expense of the damages and injuries. You may expedite the claims procedure and guarantee that you obtain the money you are entitled to by promptly alerting your insurance provider and giving them accurate information and supporting documentation. Our highly experienced lawyers will guide you in every step of the way so that you obtain all the coverage you need. Contact us today at (818) 471-8389 - we will move your case forward in your best interest!
