Understanding Your Options After a California Hit-and-Run Incident
Experiencing a car accident can be unsettling, especially when the other driver leaves the scene without providing complete information. If you’ve recently been involved in a minor collision and the at-fault driver has departed without sharing their insurance or driver’s license details, you may find yourself facing a series of questions and concerns. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate such situations.
What to Do When You’re Hit and the Other Driver Leaves
Recently, I was involved in aTraffic collision at a stop sign—while I was slowing down, a vehicle pulling out from a parallel parking space struck the middle of my car, damaging the front passenger side door. Unlike previous accidents I’ve experienced, this one left me feeling uncertain about what steps to take next.
After the collision, I promptly contacted local law enforcement. They informed me that, in California, police are not required to respond if there are no injuries and damages are under a certain threshold. Nevertheless, I exchanged contact information and took detailed photos of the damage and the other vehicle’s license plate. I provided my insurance and driver’s license details but have since faced difficulties reaching the other driver, who has become unresponsive.
Actions Taken and Next Steps
Immediately upon returning home, I filed a claim with my insurer, Geico, and am now awaiting guidance. This situation raises several important questions:
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Should I continue attempting to contact the other driver for their information?
While persistent communication might seem necessary, it’s important to know when enough information has been gathered. Collecting the license plate, photos, and any contact details already provides a solid basis for an insurance claim. -
Is filing a police report advisable for a hit-and-run scenario?
In California, reports are typically required if someone is injured or damages exceed $1,000. Early signs of injury—such as neck or back stiffness—should be taken seriously. Even if injuries are minor, documenting the incident with a police report can be beneficial. Remember, California law usually mandates reporting within 10 days of the incident. Consulting with law enforcement or legal counsel can clarify whether a report is necessary in your specific case. -
Does the extent of vehicle damage likely exceed $1,000?
Visually assessing the damage helps determine whether it surpasses the insurance reporting threshold. Damage to doors, bumpers, or structural components may reflect costs exceeding this amount, but a professional
