A hit-and-run accident can leave you with mounting medical bills, property damage, and unanswered questions. California is an at-fault state, so the responsible driver is required to cover the damages they cause—but when they flee the scene, recovering compensation becomes far more complicated.
At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, our San Francisco hit-and-run accident lawyers are here to help you explore your options, from uninsured motorist coverage to legal action. With a track record of securing millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients, our team is committed to providing the personalized representation you deserve.
Call us for a free consultation to learn more about how our San Francisco car accident lawyers can help.
What Our San Francisco Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney Can Do If the At-Fault Driver Is Identified
When authorities identify the at-fault driver in a hit-and-run accident, it opens the door for direct action to seek compensation. At Omega Law Group, our San Francisco personal injury lawyers can leverage this critical development to advocate for your financial recovery.
File a Third-Party Insurance Claim
Once the at-fault driver is identified, the first step is filing a claim with their insurance company since California is an at-fault state. We can seek compensation for your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other financial losses. However, dealing with insurance companies is rarely straightforward.
Insurance adjusters often work to minimize payouts, even when it’s clear their policyholder was at fault. They may attempt to undervalue your claim, argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident, or offer a settlement that falls far short of what you deserve.
Our legal team can help by:
- Gathering comprehensive evidence: This includes medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert evaluations to build a strong case that clearly demonstrates the extent of your damages.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: We can handle all communication with the insurance company, ensuring they don’t take advantage of you. Our goal is to secure a fair settlement that accounts for the true cost of your injuries and losses.
- Preparing for litigation if necessary: While many cases settle during the claims process, we can take legal action if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.
Filing a third-party insurance claim can be complex, especially since drivers who flee may lack the required coverage. With Omega Law Group by your side, you can focus on your health while we handle the claims process and consider other avenues to seek what you deserve.
Pursue a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your damages—or if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement—we can take your case to court by filing a personal injury lawsuit.
A lawsuit provides an opportunity to seek full compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
Here’s how our lawyers can help during the litigation process:
- Build a compelling court case: We’ll gather and present evidence to prove the at-fault driver’s negligence and the full extent of your damages. This may include expert testimony, accident reconstruction, and detailed documentation of your injuries and financial losses.
- Represent you in a trial: If your case goes to trial, we’ll provide skilled courtroom representation, arguing for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under California law.
While litigation can take time, our team is committed to fighting for the justice and financial recovery you deserve, no matter how complex the process.
Our San Francisco Hit-and-Run Collision Lawyers Can File an Uninsured Motorist (UM) Claim
If authorities are unable to identify the at-fault driver in your hit-and-run accident, you may still have options for recovering compensation. One of the most effective ways to secure financial relief in these cases is by filing an uninsured motorist (UM) claim through your own insurance provider.
At Omega Law Group, our San Francisco hit-and-run accident lawyer can guide you through this process every step of the way.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is an optional form of insurance in California designed to protect you if you’re injured in an accident caused by a driver who lacks insurance or cannot be identified, such as in a hit-and-run. If you’ve purchased UM coverage as part of your policy, it can help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
While UM coverage is not mandatory in California, insurance companies are required to offer it to policyholders. If you’re unsure whether your policy includes UM coverage, our lawyers can review it for you and determine if this option is available.
When Should You Hire a Hit-and-Run Collision Lawyer in San Francisco?
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, as outlined in California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. This statute of limitations applies to cases involving physical injuries caused by another party’s negligence, including hit-and-run accidents.
If you fail to file your lawsuit within these two years, you may lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. It is also better to file an insurance claim—either through your own coverage or a third-party claim—sooner than later. To protect your rights, consult with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Call Omega Law Group for Help From Our Hit-and-Run Car Accident Lawyers in San Francisco
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in San Francisco, you don’t have to face the challenges of seeking compensation alone. Whether the at-fault driver is identified or remains unknown, we are here to explore every available option—filing uninsured motorist claims, negotiating with insurance companies, or pursuing lawsuits when necessary.
We are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you move forward.