If you’ve been hurt in a hit-and-run accident, it can feel like you’ve been left with more questions than answers. You might be wondering who’s going to pay for your recovery or how to move forward when the other driver has vanished. The Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti is here to help you get clarity and take the next steps. As an experienced Pasadena hit and run lawyer, Adrianos knows how to deal with cases where the person responsible is nowhere to be found.
We work with people just like you those who never expected to need legal help but find themselves needing answers. Whether it’s figuring out how to file a claim or seeking compensation for injuries and damages, we’ll help you understand what’s possible. If you’re searching for a Pasadena car accident lawyer who knows how to handle hit-and-run cases, call us today. Your first consultation is free.
Abandoned at the Scene? Legal Help Is Within Reach
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling stuck. You’re dealing with pain, car damage, and the frustration of not knowing who’s responsible. On top of that, the bills start to stack up while the driver who hit you disappears. It’s not just about the car. It’s about the stress, the time off work, and the emotional distress you’re forced to carry.
At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we help people in Pasadena who’ve been hurt in hit-and-run accidents find answers. Whether you were walking, biking, or driving when it happened, we understand how important it is to explore every legal option. You may not have the license plate or full details yet, but there are still ways to pursue a personal injury claim. And we’re here to help you figure that out.
5 Crucial Steps to Take Immediately After a Hit-and-Run in Pasadena
- Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor.
- Call 911 and file a detailed police report.
- Note any details about the fleeing vehicle make, model, color, license plate.
- Identify potential witnesses and check for nearby surveillance cameras.
- Notify your insurance provider and inquire about uninsured motorist coverage.
These steps can protect your health and your claim. Your words matter, your memory matters, and quick action can make all the difference. Stay safe, and try to gather what you can from the accident scene.
Defining Hit-and-Run Incidents Under California Law
A hit-and-run isn’t just about someone speeding away. It’s when a driver causes a crash and fails to stop, offer help, or share their contact and insurance information. It can happen in parking lots, side streets, or even on a freeway. If someone damages your property or injures you and doesn’t stop, it’s considered a hit-and-run under California law.
The law looks at what was damaged just property, or someone’s body. A crash that causes a physical injury carries heavier consequences. In these cases, the law lets you hold the fault driver accountable through both criminal and civil action. Even if they haven’t been caught yet, Pasadena hit-and-run accident lawyers may still be able to help you start a personal injury claim.
California Vehicle Code: Legal Ramifications of Fleeing the Scene
California law is clear about what happens when a driver leaves the scene of an accident. Vehicle Code §20001 and §20002 explain the rules. If someone hits another car, a pedestrian, or a cyclist and drives off without stopping, they can face serious penalties. These can include fines, jail time, felony charges, and losing their license.
There’s also a civil side to it. Victims can file accident claims to seek compensation. The law protects people who’ve suffered a physical injury, brain injuries, or property damage. Pasadena hit and run accident lawyers understand the statute of limitations and what it takes to hold a negligent driver responsible even when law enforcement hasn’t found them yet. Whether you were on a highway or a South Pasadena side street, there are legal options worth exploring.
Common Injuries Resulting from Hit-and-Run Accidents
Getting hit by a driver who takes off doesn’t just leave you with damage it can leave lasting pain. Common injuries range from visible wounds to internal injuries that might not show up right away. Whether you were walking, biking, or driving, your body takes the full impact.
You could be dealing with a traumatic brain injury, broken bones, or deep cuts that need serious care. Some injuries like whiplash or PTSD affect your day-to-day life long after the crash. Others, like spinal cord injuries or permanent disability, change your life completely. These aren’t just physical issues they can lead to lost work, medical costs, and emotional stress that adds up fast.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Fractures and broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Facial and dental injuries
- Lacerations and deep cuts
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Road rash, especially for cyclists and pedestrians
- Permanent disability or loss of mobility
Seeking Compensation When the Driver Remains Unidentified
Not knowing who hit you doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If the driver isn’t found, your auto insurance policy may still help. Many drivers don’t realize they can file a claim under uninsured motorist coverage even if they weren’t in a car themselves at the time.
In some cases, if law enforcement does find the driver later, you can still pursue a civil action. It’s about making sure every chance for financial compensation is explored. A personal injury lawyer can look into every angle: your insurance policy, possible third-party fault, or even surveillance that was missed. This can take pressure off while you focus on healing.
Types of Compensation Available to Hit-and-Run Victims
When someone else causes your injury, especially in a hit-and-run, you may be entitled to more than just repairs. The law lets you pursue compensation that reflects both what you’ve paid and what you’ve lost.
Think of everything the crash has affected time off work, medical appointments, help at home, or even just the ability to enjoy your normal life. Your claim can include both the hard costs and the more personal impact of the crash.
- Medical expenses, both current and future
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Property damage repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Out-of-pocket costs, including transportation and home care
- Potential punitive damages if the driver is apprehended
The Importance of Legal Representation in Pasadena Hit-and-Run Cases
After a hit-and-run, you need someone who knows how to deal with both the police department and the insurance companies. These cases often hit roadblocks early missing drivers, limited evidence, unclear next steps. That’s where experienced attorneys come in.
A strong legal team can track down leads, handle communication with your insurance agent, and make sure nothing gets overlooked. They understand how motor vehicle accidents play out locally and what Pasadena City courts expect. With decades of combined experience, personal injury lawyers in this area bring more than just knowledge they bring a strong track record of helping people through hard situations.
Statute of Limitations: Timelines for Filing Claims
Time limits matter more than most people realize. In California, if you’re thinking about filing a claim after a hit-and-run accident, the clock starts ticking right away. For personal injury, you typically have two years from the date of the crash to take legal action. If you're only dealing with property damage like a smashed bumper or ruined bike you may have up to three years.
But if your accident involves a city vehicle or public agency, that timeline could be even shorter. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to seek compensation. If you're unsure which deadline applies to your case, it’s better to ask early. That way, you can protect your options before time runs out.
FAQs About Hit-and-Run Accidents in California
Can I pursue legal action if involved in a hit-and-run?
Yes. You can file a compensation claim, even if the hit-and-run driver is never found. Claims may be made through your insurance policy or, in some cases, through other legal channels.
What are typical attorney fees for car accident cases?
Most personal injury attorneys, including hit-and-run lawyers, work on a contingency basis. This means you don’t pay anything upfront. They take a percentage of the settlement if you win.
Does insurance cover hit-and-run incidents?
It depends on your policy. Uninsured motorist coverage often includes hit-and-run crashes, but it’s not always included by default. Review your policy or talk to your insurance agent.
How long do car accident settlements usually take?
Some cases settle in a few months. Others take longer, especially when injuries are serious or there’s little cooperation from insurance carriers. The more information and support you have, the smoother the claims process can be.
Connect with a Trusted Pasadena Hit-and-Run Attorney Today
When you’re dealing with a hit-and-run accident, it’s not just about paperwork it’s about peace of mind. At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we help auto accident victims in Pasadena understand their rights and take real steps toward fair compensation for your injuries. We’ve worked with clients across Los Angeles County, from high-speed collisions to DUI-related crashes, and understand what it takes to handle claims for property damage and serious injury.
Whether you’re navigating health insurance, dealing with a difficult insurance company, or just trying to figure out what comes next, we’re ready to help. We offer a confidential consultation with no pressure to commit. Just real answers, from a bilingual team that understands both the legal process and what matters to you. Call today to speak with a Hit and Run Injury Attorney in Los Angeles, California who puts your needs first.
