San Diego Hit & Run Accident Lawyer

Expert Legal Assistance for Hit & Run Victims

A hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic and life-altering event. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run crash, you need an experienced San Diego hit-and-run accident attorney to help you pursue justice. At The McClellan Law Firm, we understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable while fighting for our clients' entitled compensation.

Contact us today at (619) 215-1488 to schedule a free consultation.

What is a Hit & Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without stopping to provide their contact information or assist any injured parties. These accidents can involve other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or even property damage. In California, fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious offense with both criminal and civil consequences.

Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims in a vulnerable position, struggling to cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. The legal team at The McClellan Law Firm is dedicated to helping victims navigate the legal process and secure the financial recovery they need.

Common Reasons for Hit & Runs

Drivers may flee the scene of an accident for various reasons, including:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Drivers who are intoxicated may leave the scene to avoid arrest and DUI charges.
• Lack of Insurance: Uninsured or underinsured drivers may flee because they fear financial consequences.
• Fear of Legal Trouble: Some drivers, especially those with a criminal record or outstanding warrants, may run to avoid law enforcement.
• Panic or Shock: Some drivers, particularly inexperienced or young drivers, may flee in a state of panic.
• Stolen Vehicle or Driving Without a License: If the driver is operating a stolen vehicle or does not have a valid driver’s license, they may leave to avoid further penalties.

Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal and leaves victims with significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens.

California Hit & Run Laws

Under California Vehicle Code Sections 20001 and 20002, drivers involved in accidents must stop and provide their information. The penalties for violating these laws include:

• Misdemeanor Hit & Run (Property Damage Only): Fines up to $1,000, six months in jail, and potential civil liability.
• Felony Hit & Run (Injury or Fatality Involved): Significant fines, potential prison time, and loss of driving privileges.

California law requires drivers to stop at the scene, exchange contact and insurance information, and offer reasonable assistance to injured parties. If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident, our legal team can help you understand your rights and pursue legal action.

How to Recover Compensation for Hit & Runs

Recovering compensation after a hit-and-run accident can be challenging, but it is possible with the right legal strategy. At The McClellan Law Firm, we assist clients in obtaining compensation through multiple avenues, including:

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

If the at-fault driver is never identified, you may file a claim under your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Collision Coverage

Your collision coverage may help pay for vehicle repairs even if the at-fault driver is unknown.

Personal Injury Lawsuits

If the hit-and-run driver is found, you can file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Crime Victim Compensation Programs

California offers compensation programs for crime victims, which may provide financial relief for medical bills and lost income.

Why Choose The McClellan Law Firm?

At The McClellan Law Firm, we have a track record of success in handling complex personal injury cases, including hit-and-run accidents. Our experienced attorneys provide:

• Personalized Legal Representation: Every case is unique, and we tailor our legal strategies to your specific needs.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We fight tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable.
• Proven Results: Our firm has secured substantial settlements and verdicts for injury victims.
• Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional toll of hit-and-run accidents and are here to guide you every step of the way.

Call (619) 215-1488 or fill out our online contact form today to let us get started on your claim.