An Overview on Hit and Run Cases

Hit and Run

Any individual who drives a motor vehicle and gets involved in a traffic accident is compelled by law to stop in a safe area, give necessary details and information to the owner of whatever might have been damaged (for instance, property, car, person, etc.), and provide help to anyone who has sustained injuries, if needed. Failure to do such things is tantamount to a hit and run.

Hit and Run Accident Statistics

According to national government statistics, more or less 11% of all motor vehicle accidents are hit and run incidents. This equates to almost 700,000 cases of hit and run accidents in the United States every year.

In a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA, the rate of hit and run accidents has increased by 15% from 1998 to 2002 all over the U.S. In certain states, such as California, the increase rate for such incidents is even greater.

Sentencing in Hit and Run Accident Cases

When a driver is charged of a hit and run, sentencing generally considers the following:

• The nature of the motor vehicle accident


• The state in which the incident took place


• The extent of the damage


• Personal injuries


• Cooperation with law enforcement


• Past criminal record of the offender

Punishment for Hit and Run Accident Cases

The punishment for hit and run motor vehicle incidents depend on various factors (those that are listed above). When a suspect is convicted of a hit and run, he or she may possibly receive criminal and civil penalties, which may include any one or all of the following:

• Compensatory fines


• Punitive fines


• Suspension or loss of driver's license


• Insurance and/or DMV points


• Loss of driving privileges or insurance coverage


• Probation


• Jail time

Hit and Run Accident Victims

Hit and run accidents are horrible as it may result in injuries, ranging from mild to serious ones, or even death. Victims of hit and run motor vehicle accidents may possibly be faced with physical injuries and/or property damage. These might or might not be covered by the insurance company of the victim.

There are certain insurance policies that do not cover injuries and damages that involve an underinsured, uninsured, or hit and run car accident motorist. Many insurance plans do have coverage for losses that resulted from hit and run accidents. It is very important that you are aware whether or not your insurance covers such incidents.

Under hit and run law, the victims of such accidents have the right to seek compensation for the damages they sustained in a court. In certain instances in which the perpetrator is not identified, the victim might be forced to cover the costs of the incident on his/her own. However, there are some cases in which insurance companies extend coverage to victims of hit and run and compensate those who are insured up to a certain amount.

Hit and Run Cases in Los Angeles

If you are in Los Angeles and you have been involved in a hit and run accident, it is of very much importance that you seek legal assistance from an expert attorney who has more than enough knowledge and skills to successfully deal with your case.

It does not matter whether you were the victim or the perpetrator of the incident, you should consult with someone who can help you. Having the aid of a professional can be extremely beneficial as he or she can advise you of your options and rights in cases of hit and run accidents.