Riverside Hit-and-Run Leaves Pedestrian Injured: Justice for Victims of Reckless Drivers

Riverside Hit-and-Run Leaves Pedestrian Injured: Justice for Victims of Reckless Drivers

Imagine walking down a Riverside street, perhaps on your way to work or simply enjoying a leisurely evening. Suddenly, a vehicle strikes you, leaving you injured and disoriented. The driver, instead of stopping to help, speeds away, leaving you helpless and alone. This is the harsh reality for many pedestrians in Riverside, California, where hit-and-run accidents are a serious concern. In 2020, nearly 1 in 4 pedestrians killed were struck by hit-and-run drivers. If you or a loved one has experienced such a traumatic event, know that you are not alone and there are legal avenues to pursue justice.

The Alarming Reality of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Riverside

Riverside County sees an average of about 395 pedestrian collisions involving injuries or death per year. Many of these accidents are hit and runs, in which a negligent or reckless driver strikes a pedestrian and flees the scene of the crime. In 2021, 165 injury or fatal crashes were caused by hit and run drivers. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and stricter enforcement of traffic laws to protect vulnerable pedestrians.

Legal Obligations of Drivers in California

California law is very clear: drivers have a duty of care to pedestrians. This means they must exercise caution and take reasonable steps to avoid causing harm. California Vehicle Code § 20001 and § 20002 require any driver involved in an accident to stop and provide contact and insurance information. Failing to do so can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on whether there were injuries or fatalities. Leaving the scene after a crash can increase civil liability, especially when paired with a failure to render aid.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, your actions immediately following the incident are crucial. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Prioritize Your Safety and Health: Get to a safe place and call 911 or ask someone nearby to do it. Immediate medical care is the top priority, even if you think your injuries are minor.

  2. Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you’re physically able, gather as much information as possible:

    • Photos: Take pictures of the scene, any damage to property or clothing, and visible injuries.
    • Witness Info: Get names and contact information from anyone who saw the incident.
    • Details About the Vehicle: Even partial license plates, car color, make, or damage can help police track the driver.
    • File a Police Report Immediately: Under California law, all hit-and-run accidents must be reported to police. Ensure you get a copy of the police report and follow up with the investigating officer.

Options for Compensation After a Hit and Run

Even when the driver responsible cannot be identified, you still have legal options for recovering compensation.

  1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: In California, insurance companies are required to offer Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, which is designed to protect you if you are injured by a driver who has no insurance, insufficient insurance, or cannot be identified, as is often the case in hit-and-run accidents. UM coverage can help pay for:

    • Medical expenses
    • Lost wages
    • Pain and suffering
    • Property damage
    • MedPay Coverage: If included in your auto policy, Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage can help pay for medical costs regardless of fault.
    • Victim Compensation Board: If insurance does not fully cover the damages, you can apply for financial assistance through CalVCB. This state program can help with medical bills, counseling, income loss, and funeral expenses in cases involving felony hit and runs.
    • Third-Party Liability: In some cases, a third party may share responsibility. For example, a vehicle defect, poor road conditions, or a negligent employer of a commercial driver may provide additional sources of compensation.
    • Pursuing a Civil Lawsuit if the Driver Is Found: If the hit-and-run driver is later identified through a police investigation, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against them. This allows you to seek compensation for all of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

The Role of a Riverside Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney

Navigating the legal complexities of a hit-and-run case can be daunting. An experienced Riverside hit-and-run accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:

  • Investigating the Accident: Working with law enforcement and private investigators to locate the driver, gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage.
  • Filing Insurance Claims: Managing all communication with insurance companies and working to avoid denied or undervalued claims.
  • Pursuing Additional Compensation: Identifying other liable parties or sources of compensation, including state programs or third-party claims.
  • Protecting Your Rights: Ensuring that all legal deadlines are met and that you receive fair treatment throughout the process.

Justice for Victims of Reckless Drivers

Hit-and-run accidents are a serious crime, and those who flee the scene should be held accountable. In California, drivers who flee the scene of an accident face severe criminal penalties. Depending on the severity of the incident, a hit-and-run can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. A misdemeanor hit-and-run, which typically involves property damage, can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. A felony hit-and-run, which usually involves injury or death, carries harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences and higher fines.

The Importance of Legal Representation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Riverside hit-and-run accident, seeking legal representation is crucial. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the reckless actions of a hit-and-run driver derail your life. Contact a Riverside personal injury attorney today to explore your legal options and pursue justice.