Dealing With a Hit-And-Run Accident in the San Jose Area

Statistics from the American Automobile Association (AAA) show that hit-and-run accidents kill as many as 15,000 people each year. Thousands more suffer injuries because of these crashes. Even more concerning is that the number of hit-and-run accidents have been on the rise for the last few years. The number of accidents have become so concerning, in fact, that safety officials are now calling hit-and-run accidents a “plague” on society. If you or someone you love has been a victim, learn your rights, and how you can pursue compensation for any losses or injuries you may have experienced.

While any road user can become the victim of a hit-and-run accident, pedestrians have the highest level of risk. In fact, about six out of 10 fatalities are pedestrians. Yet, the increased risk of being hit is not the most concerning statistic when it comes to pedestrian hit-and-run accidents; because they are unprotected, victims are much more likely to suffer severe injury or fatality than other road users. As such, it is important that pedestrians do everything they can to avoid hit-and-run accidents, including limiting their time out and about after dark, and ensuring they are not distracted when crossing.

If you are a witness to a hit-and-run accident (particularly one involving a pedestrian), it is critical that you try to pay attention to the offending driver’s vehicle, license plate number, and direction of travel. If possible, film the accident. This could serve as evidence for the victim. You should also call emergency personnel and check to see if the victim needs help. Do not try to move them unless not doing so would put them in danger, and try to stop any noticeable bleeding.

If you are a victim, do not try to chase after the other driver. Instead, try to gather information about the other driver’s vehicle, including their license plate number, car make and model, and direction of travel. You should also check yourself for injuries and then call emergency personnel to file a report and have yourself examined by a medical professional. Visit the hospital, if it is recommended, or if you start to experience any troubling symptoms. Once you are safe at home, contact an experienced attorney for assistance with your claim.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a hit-and-run accident, contact Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard LLC today. Our San Jose personal injury lawyers will handle all the legal details of your case, giving you time to heal or grieve after your injury or loss. We will protect your rights and pursue the most favorable outcome possible in your case. Call our office at (408) 289-1417 and schedule your personalized consultation today.

• Hit-and-Run claims
• Safe Driving Tips
• Fatal hit-and-run crashes on rise in U.S.