Hiring a los angeles hit and run attorney is crucial, but there are some things that you must consider first. Read more on Typestrucks
Los Angeles Hit and Run Attorney, Everything You Must Know
On Los Angeles’ congested freeways and streets, car accidents occur frequently. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that 2,049 people died as a result of hit-and-run accidents in 2016, which is the most since 2009. Since 2006, there have been 682,000 hit-and-run incidents on average every year in the US, with pedestrians and cyclists accounting for 65% of the fatalities. And, of course many of the hit and run incidents can only be settled with the help of los angeles hit and run attorney.
If you were hurt in a hit-and-run accident and there was property damage as well, you are probably going through a very difficult time. However, you’ll fare better if you maintain your composure and gather as much information as you can about the situation. Of course, it sounds like so much work. Although, it doesn’t have to be as long as you work together with an experienced los angeles hit and run attorney. We’ve compiled some of the most information about hit-and-run attorney you must know.
Statute of Limitations for Hit and Run Accident California
If you were a victim of a hit and run accident, it’s better to contact your los angeles hit and run attorney as soon as you can. While it’s not a mandatory to hire one, employing an attorney during your difficult time will help you to navigate through all the claim process smoothly. Your lawyer can help you with all the reports and documentation within the statute of limitation period.
FYI, the statute of limitations for bringing a lawsuit after a hit-and-run collision in California is six years, as per Assembly Bill 184. This means that the prosecutor must file the charge within six years of the date the incident happened in order to bring legal action against the individual or people who caused the accident that resulted in your injuries. Please get in touch with a los angeles hit and run attorney right away to find out more about the statute of limitations for these kinds of incidents.
Can The Statute of Limitations Put On Hold?
Generally, you must file your hit-and-run lawsuit within 2-6 years timeframe. If you can’t submit your claim during the period, your claim will be void and you’ll lose the chance to get reimbursement you deserve. That’s why, we usually recommend you to seek counsel from an experienced los angeles hit and run attorney. However, there’s one condition that the statute of limitation period can be paused.
If the Police Can’t Find the Hit and Run Driver
Chasing a hit-and-run driver is usually not that easy. Sometimes, it can take authorities over two years to find the person responsible for your hit-and-run accident. Because the hit-and-run driver managed to avoid police for so long, you shouldn’t be penalized. If the hit-and-run motorist who caused your accident is out of the country or cannot be located, the statute of limitations may be tolled, or put on hold. When the hit-and-run driver is found, the clock will start to tick. The time will then be ticking again for you and your trusted los angeles hit and run attorney to bring a personal injury claim against that driver.
If the Hit and Run Driver is in Prison
It’s against the law to flee the scene of an accident. A hit-and-run driver may be charged with a crime. If the motorist is found guilty, they might receive a sentence that includes time in a state or county prison in California or Los Angeles. The extent of the harm they caused and their prior criminal history will determine the duration of their sentence. While the motorist is in jail, the statute of limitations that pertains to your hit-and-run injury case may be tolled.
For two years or until the driver is let go from custody, whichever comes first, the statute of limitations will be suspended. The statute of limitations will be extended by up to two years if the hit-and-run motorist receives a four-year prison term. The statute of limitations will be suspended for a period of six months following the release of the hit-and-run driver if they are given a six-month prison sentence.
By getting in touch with a los angeles hit and run attorney as soon as possible following your hit-and-run incident, you can safeguard your legal right to sue. The filing of your case within the appropriate statute of limitations will be ensured by your attorney. If you miss the deadline, you risk not receiving the funding you need and deserve.
What If the Driver Can Never be Located?
The police will make every effort to find the hit-and-run driver after your accident. But it’s possible that the driver won’t ever be found or identified. However, it doesn’t mean that you’ve lost all hopes. Your own insurance provider might be able to reimburse you. However, you might also need help you’re your los angeles hit and run attorney. There are two type of insurance claim you can issue:
Uninsured Driver Protection
In California, insurance providers are obligated to nudge drivers toward purchasing uninsured and underinsured motorist protection. In fact, if you don’t want this publicity, you must decline it in writing. If an uninsured driver causes an accident with you, you are protected by uninsured motorist coverage (UIM). If a hit-and-run motorist causes you harm, you may be able to use the benefits from this type of policy. Even if you were a biker or a pedestrian, the insurance still apply. When you’re not driving, your UIM coverage continues.
Collision Coverage
If you own a car or any type of vehicles, you must have a certain amount of liability insurance. This includes collision coverage, which covers the cost of damage to your car during an accident, regardless of who is at blame, and must be at least $5,000. Your own insurance’s collision coverage may be able to assist in covering damage brought on by a hit-and-run driver. But bear in mind that you’ll have to cover a deductible before your insurance starts to pa1y out.
After an accident, negotiating with insurance providers can be challenging. These businesses are unwilling to compensate you for your damages. They will exert every effort to reduce or reject your payout. You have a much better chance of receiving a just settlement when you work with a los angeles hit and run attorney to manage your insurance claim.
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