Seeking Advice on a Multi-Vehicle Hit-and-Run Incident
I’m looking for guidance regarding a complicated car accident that occurred in California about a month ago. I was a passenger in my boyfriend’s vehicle when we were struck on the freeway. Two vehicles (Car 1 and Car 2) were racing when Car 1 crashed into an unrelated car (Car 3). This caused Car 3 to hit our car on the right side; it then bounced off us and collided with Car 1 again, spinning around before hitting us once more. We finally came to a stop after hitting the wall on the right side of the freeway, approximately 50 feet behind where Car 3 ended up. Meanwhile, Car 1 came to rest perpendicular across several lanes, facing the median, while Car 2—unscathed by the collisions—pulled over next to Car 1. The driver of Car 1 then got out of their vehicle, entered Car 2, and fled the scene. First responders arrived about 15 minutes later and collected statements from the driver of Car 3, my boyfriend, and me. All three vehicles were totaled. Unfortunately, we did not obtain driver’s license or insurance information, but we have photos of the license plates for Car 1 and Car 3, as well as a contact card from the officer.
My boyfriend and I have engaged a personal injury law firm to represent us both. The firm traced the plates on Car 1 and contacted the owner’s insurance, but they have not accepted liability because the owner claims the car was stolen. We still need information regarding Car 3’s insurance. My boyfriend has UIM injury coverage of 15/30k and $3,500 in UIM property damage, but no collision coverage. Both of us sustained minor injuries and have accumulated some medical expenses. He recently finished paying off his used car, which he bought for around $12,000. It’s worth noting that I have full coverage on my own car insurance policy.
Are we at a dead end? If the owner of Car 1 is being dishonest, can they easily evade responsibility? I’m uncertain about our options moving forward. The law firm advised us to wait and refrain from seeking further medical treatment for now.
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; multi-vehicle accidents can be really complicated, especially with the added layer of a hit-and-run. Here are some thoughts that might help clarify your options:
Insurance Claims: Since you have a PI law firm, it’s good that they are already working on your behalf. Make sure they continue to follow up with the insurance companies involved to uncover any updates, especially with regard to Car 3’s insurance. Keep an open line of communication with your law firm about any new developments.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Your boyfriend’s UIM (Underinsured Motorist) coverage may play a crucial role since Car 1’s owner is claiming that the car was stolen, which could leave you without options if they can’t prove responsibility. Check with your law firm on how best to utilize this coverage, especially since it seems like the other parties might not have sufficient insurance or might be evasive.
Documentation: It’s great that you have pictures of the license plates. Make sure this documentation is with your law firm, as it can strengthen your case. Any other evidence you may have—like photos of the accident scene, witness statements, or your medical records—should also be collected and shared.
Medical Treatment: As per your law firm’s advice, it’s essential to be cautious with any further medical treatment, especially while figuring out how the claims process is unfolding. Keep track of all medical expenses and any healthcare providers you see; this will be important for your case.
Legal Recourse: Your law firm would guide you through the best course of action if the owner of Car 1 continues to deny responsibility. This might involve going after Car 3’s insurance if they are found to be at fault, or utilizing your own coverage.
Waiting Game: Unfortunately, these situations often take time to unfold. While it may feel frustrating, your law firm likely has a strategy in place, so staying patient and maintaining communication is key.
Realistically, while things might seem uncertain now, there are ways to navigate through this with your law firm’s assistance. Keep persisting, and hopefully, you’ll get a resolution that serves your interests. Good luck!