Driver Flees Scene of Accident at Folsom Boulevard Intersection
A hit-and-run accident occurred in Rosemont on September 24 that caused injuries. The collision occurred around 4:36 p.m. at the intersection of Folsom Boulevard and La Quinta Drive. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) report, a Chevy truck crashed into a Ford Escape, which caused it to hit a bus.
Fleeing Driver Sought in Accident
Although injuries were reported, it was not released what vehicle those individuals were in or the extent of trauma. The Chevy truck left the accident scene. The Ford was damaged enough that a tow truck had to be called to the scene to remove it. The CHP is investigating the fleeing driver accident to determine how it occurred and to locate the hit-and-run driver.
Hit-and-Run Accidents in California
Under California Vehicle Code 20002, a driver who flees an accident scene without stopping to exchange information with the other motorist or does not offer aid to the injured has committed a hit-and-run. Generally, if no injuries occur, it is charged as a misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to six months incarceration and a fine up to $1,000. In addition, the driver may face restitution, a period of probation, and have points placed on their driving record.
Felony Hit-and-Run
If injuries result in an accident and a driver flees, they may be charged with felony hit-and-run. This is a much more serious charge that can carry penalties of up to three years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. A conviction for hit-and-run means that the injured person has proof that can be presented in a claim for compensation. With the help of an experienced lawyer, compensation may be sought either through the at-fault person’s insurance company or in civil court.
Consequences of a Hit-and-Run Accident
Those who are injured in a hit-and-run accident often wonder how they will recover their lost wages and pay for the medical bills and their pain and suffering. My office has had good success in locating fleeing drivers and can do the same for you. In addition to working with local authorities, we conduct our own investigation and collect the evidence needed to support your compensation claim.
Conducting a Hit-and-Run Investigation
Our experienced investigators go to the scene of the hit-and-run accident to gather the evidence. They search the accident scene for any clues that may identify the vehicle and/or driver. The investigators talk to the witnesses to see what information they have, such as a partial license plate number, make and model of the vehicle, and description of the driver.
Accident reconstruction is performed and video footage is sought from nearby traffic surveillance cameras. The investigators photograph the scene and look for paint scrapes or metal pieces from the fleeing vehicle that might help identify it.
Using Insurance for Accident Compensation
When motorists purchase insurance for their car or truck, they are also offered an optional policy that covers uninsured/underinsured drivers. Many opt-in for this policy because of the high number of drivers without insurance. In the event the hit-and-run accident driver cannot be found, this insurance will cover the cost. If the injured person does not have the add-on uninsured/underinsured coverage and a household member does, that can be used. It does not affect the rate.
Rosemont Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Rosemont personal injury lawyer. If your injuries were caused by a negligent driver, you have the right to claim compensation to pay for your trauma and other losses. I am here to offer you my free and friendly advice when you call me at (916) 921-6400 or through the long-distance line at (800) 404-5400. You can reach me online too.
Since 1982, I’ve assisted Rosemont residents in getting fair compensation for traffic collisions, traumatic injuries, and wrongful deaths.
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