Getting hit and then left behind on the road is more than just a traffic incident. It's a shock to your system, physically and emotionally. If you've been in a hit-and-run accident in Glendale, you're probably wondering how you’ll recover, who’s going to help, and what your next steps should be.
The Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti understands what you’re going through. As a Glendale Car Accident Lawyer, Adrianos offers legal representation that’s focused on getting real results. We work to help you recover for your injuries and losses and deal with the insurance system, even if the driver who hit you is never found. Start with a Free Case Consultation get your questions answered, no commitment required.
What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run in California?
A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or help the injured. Under California law, this is not just irresponsible it's illegal. Vehicle Code §20001 deals with crashes that cause injury or death, while §20002 covers those involving only property damage.
If the crash caused injury or death and the driver fled, it’s considered a felony. If only property was damaged, like a parked car or fence, and the driver left, it’s a misdemeanor. In both cases, leaving the scene breaks the law and puts accident victims at a disadvantage. In Los Angeles County alone, hit-and-run accidents have become a major concern, with thousands reported each year.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Drivers Flee the Scene?
Not every hit-and-run driver is thinking clearly in the moment. Many leave because they fear the consequences, not understanding they only make things worse by running.
Common reasons drivers leave without stopping:
- Driving under the influence
- No valid license or insurance
- Fear of arrest or outstanding warrants
- Panic or confusion after the crash
- Driving a stolen vehicle
- Immigration concerns
- Distracted driving or not realizing the severity
Whatever the reason, it doesn’t excuse the harm caused. Victims are left to deal with the physical injuries, vehicle damage, and the challenge of filing claims for compensation often without clear answers.
What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run in Glendale
In a Hit-and-Run Crash, your actions in the first few moments can shape how your case plays out. It's easy to feel shaken, but following a few steps can help protect your personal injury claim and improve your chances of financial recovery.
- Call 911 and report the crash
- Note details: vehicle make, color, license plate (if any)
- Gather eyewitness information
- Take photos of damage and surroundings
- Get medical attention, even if you feel fine
- File a police report promptly
- Contact your insurance company
- Reach out to a Glendale hit-and-run lawyer
These steps support your accident claim, give your accident attorney more to work with, and help preserve your medical record. They also show that you’re taking the legal process seriously. Whether you're seeking compensation for vehicle damage or severe injuries, quick action strengthens your case.
What Makes Hit-and-Run Claims So Challenging?
When the driver who caused the crash disappears, it makes everything harder. You're left with injuries, vehicle damage, and no clear path to compensation. Filing an insurance claim becomes more complex, especially when there's no one to hold directly accountable. Even if you do everything right, you might still face delays, denials, or low offers from the insurance provider.
Here are some of the issues victims of hit-and-run car accidents often face:
- The at-fault driver may never be identified
- Insurance delays and denials are common
- Limited physical evidence at the accident scene
- Few or no eyewitnesses
- More work is needed to prove fault, injuries, and losses
A valid driver should be held responsible, but when they're gone, that responsibility gets pushed onto your shoulders. Working with an accident law firm can make a real difference, especially when your insurance adjusters aren’t listening.
Can I File a Claim if the Driver Is Never Found?
Yes. Even if the hit-and-run driver is never caught, you still have legal options. Victims of hit-and-run accidents don’t have to be left with nothing. The law provides several ways to pursue compensation for damages and injuries, even when the responsible party disappears.
Here are some paths to consider:
- Filing through your uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist coverage
- Requesting victim restitution if the driver is identified and prosecuted later
- Reviewing security camera footage or tips from witnesses
- Filing a lawsuit for compensation against any third parties who may have contributed to the accident
Having the right insurance coverage helps, but it doesn’t guarantee fair treatment. A strategic approach with experienced accident injury lawyers can make your claim stronger from the start.
Don’t Wait: Why Time Matters in Hit-and-Run Cases
Time limits apply in all motor vehicle collisions, including hit-and-runs. These legal deadlines are strict, and missing them can close the door on any chance of financial recovery. Acting quickly also improves your ability to collect useful evidence, whether it’s security footage, witness statements, or accident reports.
Under California law:
- You have 2 years to file a personal injury claim
- You have 3 years to claim for property damage
The clock starts on the day of the crash, not when the driver is found. If you're dealing with physical recovery, emotional pain, or long-term pain, don’t let the legal side fall behind. Speak with an accident attorney early even a simple initial consultation can help you understand what to do next.
Know Your Rights: California Hit-and-Run Laws Explained
Being hit and left behind isn't just unfair it's illegal. California law is clear on this. If you're the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Glendale, you have legal rights that help you move forward, even when the driver is gone.
Here's what you're entitled to under California law:
- The right to pursue compensation, whether or not the hit-and-run driver is found
- The right to request medical care and have it covered, depending on the type of insurance or support available
- The right to file a civil case in addition to any criminal charges the responsible driver may face
Understanding these rights can help you make better decisions when facing personal injury concerns, financial consequences, or insurance company tactics.
Common Injuries in Glendale Hit-and-Run Accidents
Accidents involving a fleeing driver can cause a wide range of personal injuries, some of which may not show up right away. Even if it feels minor at first, the damage can become more serious with time physically, mentally, and financially.
Some of the most reported injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck strain
- Broken bones or fractures
- Head trauma or concussions
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Emotional trauma such as anxiety, fear, or post-crash stress
- Cuts, abrasions, or road rash
These injuries often need emergency medical attention and ongoing care. The goal of any legal action is to seek the compensation needed for full post-accident recovery both short- and long-term.
Why Local Experience Matters in Glendale Hit-and-Run Cases
When it comes to a hit-and-run accident in Glendale, local knowledge matters more than people think. It helps your legal team know what to look for and how to act quickly.
A legal professional with experience in this area brings:
- Familiarity with common crash areas like Brand Blvd and Colorado St
- Understanding of Glendale police procedures and how they handle accident reports
- Experience with LA County courts and the time frame involved in filing legitimate claims
- Relationships with local insurers and insight into how to handle insurance company complications
If you're dealing with legal trouble, medical assistance needs, or insurance delays, having someone who understands the landscape can change the outcome.
Free Case Review: Talk to a Glendale Hit-and-Run Attorney Today
If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident in Glendale, don’t wait to understand your rights or legal options. A free, no-obligation consultation is available to help you sort through your questions, concerns, and next steps.
At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, every case gets a client-focused legal approach. There are no upfront fees, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Call today and speak with an experienced attorney who can help you make sense of what happened and what comes next.
