Hit-and-run accidents are a growing concern in Sacramento, Roseville, and throughout Northern California. In 2022, the California Highway Patrol reported over 26,000 hit-and-run accidents across the state, many of which resulted in serious injuries or fatalities. With the rise in distracted driving, uninsured motorists, and congested traffic, hit-and-run incidents are happening more frequently in high-traffic areas like I-80, Highway 50, and Stockton Boulevard.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Sacramento, it is crucial to act quickly to protect your rights and maximize your chances of securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Kreeger Law Firm has decades of experience handling hit-and-run cases, and attorney Chris Kreeger and his team are dedicated to fighting for accident victims.

This guide explains the steps to take after a hit-and-run accident, why Sacramento has a higher risk for these incidents, and how Kreeger Law Firm can help you recover damages.

 

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

A hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, but following these steps will help protect your safety, strengthen your legal case, and improve your chances of identifying the fleeing driver.

Stay at the Scene and Call 911

Even if the at-fault driver flees, never leave the scene. Immediately call 911 and report the accident to local law enforcement:

• Sacramento Police Department: (916) 808-5471
• California Highway Patrol – Sacramento Division: (916) 731-6300

Provide the dispatcher with as much detail as possible, including:

• The color, make, and model of the other vehicle
• Any part of the license plate number you can recall
• A description of the driver if seen
• The direction the vehicle was heading

Document the Accident Scene

Gathering evidence is crucial, as it may help police locate the hit-and-run driver and support your insurance claim. Take the following steps:

• Photograph the scene, including damage to your vehicle, skid marks, debris, traffic signals, and any injuries.
• Check for surveillance cameras at nearby homes or businesses that may have recorded the accident.
• Talk to witnesses and get their statements and contact details. Witness testimony can be valuable in proving your case.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Even if you feel fine, visit an emergency room or urgent care in Sacramento for a medical evaluation. Seeking medical attention promptly also strengthens your injury claim.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Under California law, you may need to file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage, which applies in hit-and-run accidents. However, insurance companies often minimize payouts, so working with an experienced Sacramento personal injury attorney can ensure you receive maximum compensation.

Contact Kreeger Law Firm for Legal Guidance

Navigating a hit-and-run claim can be challenging, especially if the at-fault driver is never found. Kreeger Law Firm helps clients by:

• Conducting thorough investigations
• Obtaining traffic cam footage and police reports
• Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation

Why Sacramento Drivers Face a Higher Risk of Hit-and-Run Accidents

Certain high-traffic areas in Sacramento and Roseville have an increased risk of hit-and-run crashes due to congestion, reckless driving, and a high number of uninsured motorists.

Dangerous Intersections in Sacramento

Some of the most accident-prone areas include:

• I-80 and Norwood Avenue
• Highway 50 and Howe Avenue
• Stockton Boulevard and Fruitridge Road

Increase in Uninsured and Distracted Drivers

• Many hit-and-run accidents involve uninsured drivers who flee to avoid penalties.
• Distracted driving, including texting, adjusting GPS, and eating, contributes to high-speed collisions, making it harder to identify fleeing drivers.

How Kreeger Law Firm Can Help You Recover Compensation

Kreeger Law Firm aggressively fights to recover damages for hit-and-run victims, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage

If the hit-and-run driver is not found, your uninsured motorist policy may cover:

• Medical bills
• Vehicle repairs
• Lost income

However, insurance companies often undervalue claims, making it essential to work with an experienced Sacramento car accident lawyer to ensure you receive full compensation.

Personalized Legal Representation

Attorney Chris Kreeger has built a reputation as one of the most trusted personal injury attorneys in Sacramento. Kreeger Law Firm offers personalized legal strategies tailored to each client’s case. The firm works with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and private investigators to build strong cases.

Common Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases and How Kreeger Law Firm Solves Them

Finding the At-Fault Driver

• Kreeger Law Firm works with private investigators to analyze security footage, witness statements, and accident reports to identify the responsible party.

Handling Insurance Company Disputes

• Insurance companies often delay or deny hit-and-run claims. Kreeger Law Firm negotiates aggressively to fight for a fair payout, ensuring clients are not left with out-of-pocket expenses.

Negotiating Settlements vs. Taking Cases to Court

• While most cases are resolved through settlement negotiations, Kreeger Law Firm is prepared to take cases to trial if an insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation. The firm has successfully recovered significant settlements and verdicts for hit-and-run accident victims.

Top California Hit-and-Run Accident FAQs

What is the penalty for a hit-and-run in California?

California law considers hit-and-run accidents a criminal offense:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
• Felony (if injuries or death occur): Up to 4 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

How long do I have to file a hit-and-run claim in Sacramento?

• Personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years from the accident date.
• Property damage claims must be filed within 3 years.

Will my insurance cover a hit-and-run accident?

Yes, uninsured motorist coverage may apply if the at-fault driver is not found. However, insurance companies often fight these claims, making it critical to work with a Sacramento hit-and-run lawyer who understands the complexities of these cases.

Speak With Kreeger Law Firm Today

If you have been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove or beyond, you need a skilled California injury attorney to fight for your rights. Kreeger Law Firm has decades of experience handling hit-and-run cases in California and securing compensation for accident victims.

To learn more about how Kreeger Law Firm can help, call 916-313-0986 for a consultation.