Maison Law Accident & Injury Lawyers of Modesto support pedestrians injured in hit-and-run accidents in Modesto. While Downtown Modesto features some of the most beautiful streets to walk in the city, pedestrians are also at risk for hit-and-run accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Modesto, contact Maison Law Accident & Injury Lawyers of Modesto for a free consultation and get the justice you deserve after an undeserved accident.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident in Modesto?
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Modesto, it is recommended to discuss your legal options with a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer. Depending on the circumstances, it may be beneficial to take legal action immediately. The majority of pedestrian and vehicle collisions are often accompanied by major injuries, requiring extensive treatment and missed time at work. An attorney can help you by:
- Connecting you to trusted doctors for continued treatment
- Filing a lawsuit to get you compensation for your:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Assigning liability to all additional parties responsible
- Communicating with insurance adjusters on your behalf
- Building your case by gathering concrete evidence to confirm your claim
- Representing you in court if your case goes to trial
What the Law Says About Hit and Run Accidents
According to California Vehicle Code 20002, individuals are prohibited from leaving the scene of an accident without identifying themselves to others involved when someone else’s property was damaged. This law applies to pedestrians, as well as other modes of transport, and is considered a misdemeanor. However, if any person is injured or killed in the hit-and-run accident, then the penalty is upgraded to a felony hit-and-run. A person is guilty of a hit-and-run if:
- They leave an accident scene
- Fail to identify themselves to others involved
- Damage occurred to someone else’s property or someone was injured or killed
What to do After a Hit and Run Accident in Modesto
Any accident that involves a driver failing to stop after hitting someone with their vehicle is considered a hit-and-run collision. When most people think about hit-and-runs, they tend to think it’s an accident between two cars, but a hit-and-run can happen to pedestrians, skateboarders, bikers, and other modes of non-vehicle transportation. The next steps to take after a pedestrian hit-and-run accident are:
- Report the crime to the Modesto Police: hit and run driver can face serious penalties for fleeing the scene of an accident. The sooner the collision is reported, the better chance a police officer will track the offender down, improving the odds of getting compensation for your injuries.
- Get medical attention: even if you don’t feel enough pain to see a doctor, it is recommended to get checked out anyway. Deep tissue injuries and ligament strains can take days to turn into painful injuries. Any delay in seeking medical attention can be harmful to your case if you decide to take legal action.
- Speak with a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: the best way for injured pedestrians in Modesto to get compensation for a hit-and-run accident is to partner with an attorney. These accidents require evidence, witness testimony, and legal protection from liability to reach a successful conclusion.
What Compensation Can You Expect for a Pedestrian Hit and Run in Modesto?
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, you can sue for compensatory damages, which include:
- Medical and hospital bills
- Property damages
- Occupational and physical therapy
- Lost earnings and wages
- Property damage
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
In hit-and-run cases, an at-fault driver’s driver’s intention could be found to be intentional, in which case, you would be able to sue for punitive damages. Punitive damages cover accidents that were caused due to ill will or malice. They can result in significant compensation for the victim as the courts would like to deter anyone from committing intentional acts of harm against another.
With all these factors, it can be difficult to put a specific amount on each case. But if you speak to one of our experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyers, they can give you an idea of the compensation you’re owed based on your situation. Contact Maison Law Accident & Injury Lawyers of Modesto today for a free evaluation of your case.
Contact a Modesto Pedestrian Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Modesto, the Pedestrian Accident Lawyers of Modesto can help you receive maximum compensation for your damages. In certain circumstances, criminal charges can be brought against the hit-and-run driver, requiring an experienced law firm with legal resources to successfully manage such a complex case.
Contact Maison Law Accident & Injury Lawyers of Modesto today for a free consultation and case evaluation. There are no upfront costs for our legal services and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.