Big Rig Hits Passenger Vehicle and Continues on Without Stopping
A hit-and-run collision occurred on southbound I-5 in Sacramento on October 24 that resulted in injuries to one person. The accident was reported by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) as happening around 9:26 a.m. along the southbound side of the highway just north of the eastbound Florin Road on-ramp. The two-vehicle crash involved a black Mercedes and a big rig.
Injury Reported in Hit-and-Run Collision
The Mercedes ended up in the center divider as the big rig continued on. The CHP is searching for the driver who fled the accident scene and working toward determining fault. It is unknown whether the injured party was treated at the accident site or transported to a hospital for additional evaluation.
Reasons for a Hit-and-Run Collision
Hit-and-run accidents are occurring more frequently in Sacramento. There are several reasons for this:
- The driver is unlicensed and does not want to be caught.
- The driver has no insurance and wants to avoid a fine.
- The car was stolen.
- The driver has outstanding warrants against them.
- The driver is inebriated on drugs or alcohol.
- The driver panics and runs.
Ways Our Firm Investigates a Hit-and-Run Collision
Our firm has been investigating car accidents of every type since 1982. Our experience extends to fleeing drivers. We send our investigators to the accident scene to gather evidence about the crash. They look for marks left on the vehicle that remain at the scene to see if paint smears are present after the accident. This is important since manufacturers use specific colors on certain models, and by identifying the color, the manufacturer of the vehicle can be ascertained.
Our investigators also interview witnesses who saw the accident happen. They might have seen the license plate, and even if only a few numbers are remembered, it is possible to identify the vehicle. Other witnesses might recognize the car and the driver or capture the accident on their cell phone.
Paying for Damages If the Driver Flees the Scene
Aside from being injured, clients worry about how they will pay for the damages the negligent driver inflicted on them. Although many hit-and-run drivers are caught, not all are. We work with our clients to make up for this problem by helping them use their uninsured/underinsured auto insurance policy add-on. This is offered to all residents of California when they buy motor vehicle insurance. It pays for the damages in a fleeing-driver accident without adding to the insurance holder’s premium. This rider can be used if you are a pedestrian or motorcyclist also.
Not all vehicle owners take the option of purchasing uninsured/underinsured insurance. However, if a family member has the add-on, it is possible to use their insurance to cover the damages. Again, the premium is not affected.
Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento truck accident lawyer. When a truck driver or trucking company is responsible for your injuries, you may want to find out whether you can file a compensation claim against the at-fault party. My team of injury lawyers and I have free and friendly advice to offer you when you call us at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. We can be reached online also if you prefer.
To find out how my legal team and I have assisted others in getting fair compensation for their injury accidents, visit the following links:
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Since 1982, we’ve helped people in Northern California obtain compensation for their traffic accident injuries, claims against the government, wrongful deaths, and in other cases.
Photo attribution: Image by Vladyslav Topyekha from Pixabay
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