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Hit and Run: What to Do When the Other Driver Fled
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident is frightening and frustrating. Raffi Naljian has helped many clients navigate these challenging situations where the at-fault driver fled the scene. While catching the responsible party can be difficult, you still have options for recovery. This guide walks you through the critical steps to take immediately after a hit-and-run and explains how you may still be able to recover compensation.
Victim of a hit-and-run?
Raffi Naljian
California Personal Injury, Litigation & Criminal Defense Attorney
Raffi Garabed Naljian is an active California attorney listed under State Bar #238919. The State Bar profile lists personal injury, litigation, criminal law, and business law among his self-reported practice areas, and Naljian Law Offices describes a Glendale practice handling criminal defense and civil litigation, including personal injury matters.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Hit-and-run cases require an attorney who understands uninsured motorist claims, police investigation processes, and alternative recovery options. Raffi Naljian handles hit-and-run cases throughout California and can evaluate your insurance coverage to identify potential sources of compensation. Not all hit-and-run victims realize they may have coverage through their own policy. If you're searching for the "best hit and run lawyer," focus on finding someone experienced with UM/UIM claims specifically. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
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What to Do Next
- 1Stay at the scene and call 911 immediately
- 2Try to note the fleeing vehicle's make, model, color, and license plate
- 3Look for witnesses who may have seen the vehicle or driver
- 4Check for nearby security cameras or dashcam footage
- 5Take photos of your vehicle damage and injuries
- 6File a police report (required for insurance claims)
- 7Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor
- 8Contact your own insurance company to report the claim
- 9Consult with an attorney about your coverage options
Evidence Checklist
- Any details about the fleeing vehicle (color, make, model, partial plate)
- Witness contact information and statements
- Security camera footage from nearby businesses
- Dashcam footage from your vehicle or other drivers
- Police report with case number
- Photos of damage, debris, and the accident scene
- Your uninsured motorist policy declarations page
- Medical records documenting your injuries
Not sure what coverage you have?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Chasing the fleeing driver (dangerous and potentially illegal)
- Failing to call police and file a report
- Not looking for witnesses before they leave
- Assuming you have no options because the driver fled
- Not reviewing your own insurance policy for UM/UIM coverage
- Delaying medical treatment
- Waiting too long to file an insurance claim
How the Process Typically Works
1
Immediate Response
Document everything, call police, seek medical care
2
Investigation
Police investigate while you gather additional evidence
3
Insurance Notification
File claim with your own UM/UIM coverage
4
Coverage Analysis
Attorney reviews all potential coverage sources
5
Claim Pursuit
Negotiate with your own insurer for fair compensation
6
Resolution
Recover through UM/UIM coverage or if driver is found, pursue their insurance
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Medical expenses through UM/UIM coverage
- •Lost wages
- •Pain and suffering (depending on policy)
- •Property damage (through collision coverage)
- •Future medical treatment
- •Full compensation if the driver is later identified
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still recover compensation if the driver is never found?
Yes, in many cases. If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on your auto policy, you can file a claim with your own insurance company for injuries caused by the hit-and-run driver.
What is uninsured motorist coverage?
UM coverage is part of your auto insurance that pays for your injuries when the at-fault driver has no insurance or, in hit-and-run cases, cannot be identified. In California, insurers must offer this coverage.
How long do police investigate hit-and-runs?
Investigation timelines vary. Minor accidents may receive limited investigation, while serious injury or fatal hit-and-runs receive more resources. Providing as much detail as possible helps the investigation.
Should I hire a lawyer for a hit-and-run case?
If you have significant injuries and need to file a UM claim, an attorney can be helpful. Insurance companies sometimes dispute UM claims more aggressively since they're paying from their own policies.
What if the hit-and-run driver is later identified?
If the driver is found, you may be able to pursue a claim against their insurance directly. You may also be able to recover compensation beyond your UM policy limits if their coverage is sufficient.
Does filing a UM claim raise my insurance rates?
Laws vary, but in California, your insurer generally cannot raise rates solely because you filed a UM claim for an accident that wasn't your fault. Review your specific policy terms.
Don't assume you have no recourse.
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Important Disclosures
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.