What Happens if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance or Leaves the Scene?
December 29, 2024Anytime a person leaves the scene of the accident without stopping, this is considered a hit-and-run accident. In the past decade, hit-and-run accidents have been on the rise. In 2022, the United States was home to 2,932 hit-and-run fatalities, with many more being injured.
Like most jurisdictions, a hit-and-run is a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment and fines. If anyone suffered a severe injury or died, then the offender will be charged with a felony, which could result in a four-year sentence in state prison, a potential fine of $10,000, or both. Of course, this is assuming that the individual can be located.
If you fall victim to a hit-and-run, you may be wondering how you can be compensated for your injuries and damage to your vehicle. In this blog, our Santa Barbara car accident attorneys discuss what steps you should take if the other driver flees the scene and the types of claims that can cover your losses.
What Should I Do If I Am Involved in a Hit-and-Run?
Following a hit-and-run, your first call should be to the police. Notify them that you have been involved in an accident in which the other driver left the accident scene. The responding officer will take down your information and other information regarding the accident and file an accident report. If you sustained injuries, also be sure to call 911.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
California offers uninsured/underinsured motorist (UMC/UIM) coverage for situations in which you are involved in an accident with an at-fault driver who does not carry liability insurance, is underinsured, or cannot be located. UMC/UIM coverage is optional, although California auto insurers are required to offer UMC/UIM coverage. You must waive the coverage in writing if you choose not to purchase it.
When you purchase UMC/UIM, you can buy uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) and/or uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD). For UMBI, the default limits will typically be the same as your liability limits, with minimum coverage being:
- $30,000 for bodily injury or death per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident
If you elect to purchase UMPD, it will cover $3,500 in vehicle damage, although the other driver must be identified. If you have collision coverage, you will not need to purchase UMPD.
Med Pay
If you do not have UM/UIM, you may be able to use Med Pay to cover medical expenses for you and your passengers. Med Pay is optional coverage that will apply regardless of fault. It has no deductible, and coverage starts at $1,000 per person. However, you can ask for more coverage.
Advantages of Working with a Santa Barbara Car Accident Lawyer
Getting into an accident with an uninsured driver or a driver who flees the scene can leave you feeling uneasy and utterly confused. You deserve to be adequately compensated for your medical expenses and vehicle damage, but an insurance payout can be difficult if the other driver cannot be identified.
At Bamieh & De Smeth, PLC, we understand the stress of covering your expenses following a crash. We make it our mission to streamline the insurance claims process. Our team of professionals has helped numerous accident victims recover what is due to them, giving them the resources to heal physically and emotionally.
Injured? Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers in Santa Barbara Today
A car accident can leave you shaken, especially if you are worried about getting your needs covered. If you or a loved one have recently been involved in a collision, our Santa Barbara car accident attorneys are here to assist you. To schedule your free consultation, contact us online or by phone today.