Hit-and-Run Near Chico Causes Injuries
At least one person suffered injuries during a no-contact hit-and-run near Chico on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. Officials of California Highway Patrol (CHP) indicated that the crash happened on State Route 99 in the afternoon and that the missing driver and vehicle have not yet been located. Details about the severity of the injuries sustained during this incident have not yet been reported.
Collision Information
The accident occurred at about 2:34 p.m. on the northbound side of 99 just past the onramp off of East 20th Street. According to police, a white Ford Escort was driving in the number one lane. The Escort veered into the number two lane, nearly striking a gray Honda Civic. The driver of the Civic reportedly swerved right in order to avoid a collision and lost control of the vehicle as a result.
After swerving, the Civic eventually traveled off-road and crashed through a barbed-wire fence, coming to a complete stop in a nearby field.
Phantom Vehicle Accidents
This collision is what would be considered a “phantom vehicle accident.” These are accidents in which a negligent driver forces another vehicle into an accident without ever making contact with the other car. Phantom vehicle accidents are very similar to hit-and-runs because the negligent driver is often unable to be found and held responsible following the crash.
When the negligent party can’t be found, people often worry about how they will be able to pay for their medical bills, damaged vehicle, and lost wages. While these situations are stressful, crash survivors may be able to claim damages through their own insurance policies after phantom vehicle collisions. This can be done by utilizing a part of your insurance policy called “uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.”
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage exists in order to provide people with compensation when at-fault parties can’t be held liable. However, in California, this type of coverage is optional and the amount available through your policy can vary widely. Furthermore, insurance companies sometimes make low-ball offers, essentially attempting to pay out less than crash survivors deserve for the damages they have suffered. For this reason, the best thing to do is to reach out to a skilled Chico personal injury lawyer who can help you understand what you are owed and how to move forward with recovering fair compensation.
Finding a Good Attorney
Accident cases can have a huge impact on your life and it’s important to have an attorney you know that you can trust. Many people aren’t sure how they will be able to find a lawyer with the right experience, skills, and resources to effectively take on their case.
Fortunately, it is easy to get in touch with a top-rated attorney if you know how to look. To learn how, take just a moment to watch the following video produced by my firm:
Other Blogs from Ed Smith, Chico Personal Injury Lawyer
- One Dead After Chico Bicyclist Crash
- What is a Chico Injury Lawyer?
- Rollover in Chico Kills Elderly Man
Chico Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Chico personal injury lawyer. An accident can be a life-changing event. For free, friendly case advice after a major car accident, call me at either (800) 404-5400 or (530) 392-9400.
My team has assisted people in the Chico area for 38 years. We have helped our valued clients achieve many settlements and verdicts. You can read outstanding reviews written by our clients at the below websites:
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