A hit-and-run accident can leave victims feeling helpless, but gathering the right evidence can make a significant difference in holding the at-fault driver accountable. Whether dealing with property damage, bodily injury, or severe trauma, knowing what steps to take and what evidence to collect can strengthen your claim and maximize your compensation.
In this blog, we will break down the key types of evidence needed to build a strong motor vehicle accident case, explain how to navigate the legal process and discuss when to seek help from a hit-and-run attorney in Crenshaw to protect your rights. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, acting quickly and securing legal guidance can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim.
What Happens After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
When a driver flees the scene of an accident, the victim is often left with medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs. In California, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident without exchanging information or rendering aid. If the fleeing driver was under the influence of alcohol, this could further complicate the case, leading to criminal charges against them if caught.
To strengthen your claim, you must act quickly to document the event, file an accident report, and take legal action to protect your rights as an injured person.
Key Evidence to Strengthen Your Hit and Run Claim
Gathering substantial evidence is crucial to build a strong case and avoid a denied claim. Below are the most important pieces of evidence you need:
1. Police Report
Immediately after the accident, call law enforcement and file an accident report. The police will document essential details such as:
- Date, time, and location of the motor vehicle accident
- Witness statements
- Preliminary assessment of bodily injury and property damage
- Possible security camera footage or nearby surveillance sources
A California police accident report validates your claim and increases your chances of identifying the hit-and-run driver.
2. Eyewitness Testimonies
If bystanders or other drivers witnessed the accident, their statements can be demonstrative evidence in personal injury cases. Witnesses can provide:
- Vehicle descriptions (color, make, model)
- License plate details (partial or full)
- Driver behavior before and after the accident
Collecting contact information from witnesses ensures that their testimony can support your case.
3. Surveillance Footage & Dash Cam Recordings
Many hit-and-run accidents occur near traffic cameras, businesses, or homes with security cameras. Obtaining video evidence can:
- Show how the accident occurred
- Capture the fleeing vehicle and the driver’s actions
- Provide crucial proof of liability
If your vehicle has a dashcam, check for footage that may have recorded the hit-and-run accident in real-time.
4. Photos & Physical Evidence
Take clear photographs of the accident scene, including:
- Vehicle damage (paint transfer from the fleeing car can indicate color)
- Debris left behind (broken headlights, bumpers, or mirrors)
- Tire skid marks or road conditions
These images help accident reconstruction experts determine how the accident happened and establish fault.
5. Medical Records & Documentation of Injuries
If you sustained bodily injury, seek immediate medical attention. Your medical records serve as evidence linking your injuries to the accident. Documentation should include:
- Emergency room visits
- X-rays, MRIs, and test results
- Physician notes confirming accident-related injuries
Medical evidence is critical when pursuing compensation through an insurance claim or legal action.
6. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) & Insurance Claims
California law allows victims of hit-and-run accidents to file a claim under their Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage if the at-fault driver is not identified. Insurance companies, however, often attempt to deny or minimize these claims without proper evidence. A hit-and-run attorney in Crenshaw can:
- Negotiate with insurance adjusters to maximize your settlement
- Prove that the accident was not your fault
- Fight against claim denials due to lack of evidence
Hiring a Hit and Run Attorney in Crenshaw is Important
Navigating a hit-and-run accident claim alone can be overwhelming. Our skilled hit-and-run attorney in Crenshaw can:
- Investigate and gather additional evidence
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Negotiate fair compensation with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if necessary
By securing legal representation, you can ensure your case is built on solid evidence and improve your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Let Farahi Law Firm Fight for Your Rights
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, acting fast and gathering the right evidence can make or break your case. From police reports and surveillance footage to medical records and eyewitness testimonies, the strength of your claim depends on how well you document the incident.
Don’t let a hit-and-run driver escape accountability—consult our award-winning personal injury lawyer today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
