Steve was on a run with the Sacramento Run Club on a beautiful April 22 when a sudden car comes racing. The vehicle speeds up and collides with Steve on a crosswalk with its side mirror on the intersection of 17th and Q Streets in Midtown Sacramento. Jack McAllister, another runner that was in the club, aided Steve right after he collapsed on the curb. Rushed to the hospital, Steve was found to have no fractures but had numerous bruises and abrasions around his body.

Steve was grateful to be alive and he felt extremely lucky. He works on an ortho trauma floor, a hospital unit that specializes in injuries resulting from trauma, so he understands that not many people end up like he did with no major injuries. Steve, Jack, and the other runners in the club are urging people to come forward to KCRA 3, who first reported the incident, with any information on the driver, as they are still unknown.

Pedestrian and hit and run accidents like this one have been rising in our state. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, pedestrian fatalities increased by 9.4% from 1,013 in 2020 to 1,108 in 2021, highlighting the growing concern for pedestrian safety in the state.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a similar pedestrian or hit and run accident, our pedestrian accident attorneys at Kreeger Law are here for you. We offer free consultations and are willing to answer any questions you may have about your situation. Get the compensation you deserve from your accident. We will work with the police to discover every piece of information possible.

The Dangers of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Sacramento

Sacramento consistently ranks among California’s most pedestrian-friendly cities, especially in vibrant neighborhoods like Midtown and Downtown. Yet, higher pedestrian traffic means increased risk. According to recent data from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), pedestrian fatalities in California surged nearly 10% from 2020 to 2021, underscoring a concerning trend.

Why Midtown Sacramento Is Particularly Dangerous

Midtown Sacramento—where Steve was recently struck during his group run—is known for busy intersections and bustling streets, such as 17th and Q Streets. High foot traffic, crowded crosswalks, and frequent vehicle movement significantly increase collision risk. Moreover, insufficient street lighting and poorly marked crosswalks compound these dangers, especially during early mornings or evenings.

Financial and Emotional Challenges for Victims

In hit-and-run accidents, victims face daunting financial uncertainties, including extensive medical expenses and lost wages due to injuries. The added difficulty of identifying and tracking down fleeing drivers often leaves victims overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. Immediate legal assistance from experienced Sacramento attorneys, such as the team at Kreeger Law, is essential to alleviate these burdens.

Why Swift Legal Action Is Essential

Taking immediate legal action after a hit-and-run incident significantly improves the chances of identifying and apprehending the responsible driver. Key evidence, such as eyewitness testimonies and security footage, can quickly disappear. At Kreeger Law, our attorneys swiftly deploy skilled investigators to track down negligent drivers, holding them accountable and securing the justice victims deserve.

Preventing Hit-and-Run Accidents in Sacramento

Hit-and-run accidents devastate victims and communities alike, but many of these incidents are entirely preventable. With the right knowledge and proactive steps, Sacramento pedestrians and drivers can significantly reduce the risk of these tragic events. Below, we outline practical strategies for enhancing safety on Sacramento streets.

Essential Safety Tips for Sacramento Pedestrians

Pedestrians play a crucial role in their own safety. Simple actions can dramatically decrease your risk of becoming a victim:

• Always use marked crosswalks: Cross streets only at designated intersections or crosswalks. Marked crosswalks, particularly in busy districts like Midtown or Downtown Sacramento, offer greater visibility and safety.
• Increase your visibility: Wear reflective or brightly colored clothing during dawn, dusk, or nighttime walks and runs. Visibility reduces the likelihood of accidents, especially on streets with inadequate lighting.
• Avoid distractions: Stay alert by putting away cell phones or headphones. Maintaining full attention to traffic significantly lowers accident risks.
• Stay vigilant at intersections: Even with the pedestrian right-of-way, carefully observe traffic. Drivers may be distracted or impaired, so cautious crossing can save your life.
• Travel in groups when possible: As demonstrated by Steve’s recent incident during his run with the Sacramento Run Club, companions can provide critical aid and witness testimony if accidents occur.

Proactive Measures for Sacramento Drivers

Driver responsibility is paramount in preventing hit-and-run accidents. Every driver in Sacramento should adopt these preventive measures:

• Obey traffic signals and speed limits: Adhering strictly to speed limits, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas like Midtown Sacramento, significantly reduces accident severity. Higher speeds often lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
• Eliminate distractions: Avoid texting, adjusting navigation systems, or other distractions while driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving remains a leading cause of pedestrian-related accidents.
• Never drive under the influence: Alcohol and drugs severely impair judgment and reaction time. Always plan ahead with rideshare services or designated drivers.
• Practice defensive driving: Anticipate pedestrian movement at intersections, crosswalks, and near schools or residential areas. Defensive driving dramatically reduces the risk of collisions.

Sacramento’s Community Efforts to Enhance Pedestrian Safety

Sacramento actively works to improve pedestrian infrastructure and safety. Community initiatives and city programs continually address pedestrian vulnerabilities:

• City-wide safety programs: Sacramento’s Vision Zero initiative aims to eliminate all pedestrian and traffic fatalities through improved road design and enforcement strategies.
• Local advocacy groups: Organizations such as WALKSacramento advocate for safer pedestrian conditions through community education and policy advocacy. Supporting such organizations strengthens the city’s commitment to pedestrian safety.
• Infrastructure improvements: Sacramento regularly upgrades pedestrian pathways, crosswalk visibility, and lighting in high-traffic areas like Midtown, aiming to prevent incidents similar to Steve’s accident on 17th and Q Streets.

What to Do if a Hit-and-Run Accident Occurs

Despite preventive measures, accidents still happen. Immediate actions can protect your legal rights and physical wellbeing:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even minor injuries may signal underlying severe issues. Prompt medical treatment ensures proper documentation and quicker recovery.

Document the Accident Thoroughly

Take detailed photographs of injuries, vehicle damage, and the accident scene. Secure contact information from witnesses.

Report to Authorities Promptly

Contact Sacramento law enforcement immediately to file a report. Police reports become crucial evidence in identifying responsible parties.

Contact a Trusted Local Attorney

A specialized Sacramento pedestrian accident attorney will swiftly investigate, identify liable parties, and protect your interests. At Kreeger Law, we stand ready to assist hit-and-run victims aggressively.

By practicing preventive safety habits and knowing precisely what steps to take after an incident, Sacramento residents can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of hit-and-run accidents.

Common Injuries Resulting from Hit-and-Runs

Victims of pedestrian hit-and-run accidents often suffer more than physical injuries—they endure lasting emotional, financial, and psychological harm. Because they lack the protective barrier of a vehicle, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Below, we break down the most common injuries sustained in these tragic incidents and explore how they affect recovery, livelihood, and legal claims.

Severe Brain Injuries

A pedestrian struck by a moving vehicle may hit their head on the pavement, curb, or even the vehicle itself. This frequently results in concussions, brain bleeds, or permanent cognitive impairment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most common and life-altering injuries from traffic-related accidents. Symptoms—like memory loss, impaired motor skills, or mood disorders—may take hours or even days to appear.

When we pursue compensation for clients with TBIs, we consult with Sacramento-area neurologists, imaging specialists, and life care planners to quantify both short- and long-term effects on the client’s life.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The violent impact of a car strike can fracture vertebrae or cause spinal cord damage. In serious cases, this leads to partial or complete paralysis. Victims may require spinal surgery, physical rehabilitation, and lifelong assistance. These injuries are both financially and emotionally draining. Our firm works closely with orthopedic experts to ensure clients receive comprehensive care and a fair financial recovery.

If you or a loved one is suffering from a spinal injury due to a hit-and-run, the spinal cord injury resource hub at the Mayo Clinic offers helpful insights into treatment and recovery.

Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries

Pedestrians frequently suffer broken bones—especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Even when fractures appear minor, they can severely impact mobility and quality of life. Surgical intervention, physical therapy, and extended time off work are often necessary.

Recovery time for these types of injuries varies greatly, making accurate diagnosis and documentation critical. At Kreeger Law, we advocate for complete compensation that reflects the true cost of your orthopedic recovery, not just your ER bill.

Internal Injuries and Organ Damage

Not all injuries are immediately visible. Blunt force trauma can lead to internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or liver and spleen damage. These conditions are potentially fatal if not treated immediately. Emergency surgery is often required, followed by extended hospital stays and rehabilitation.

We emphasize the importance of swift medical evaluations after any pedestrian accident. As Johns Hopkins Medicine notes, internal injuries are common in pedestrian incidents and frequently go undetected without advanced imaging.

Lacerations, Burns, and Disfigurement

Skidding across asphalt or colliding with a vehicle can result in deep cuts, severe bruising, and even burns. Some injuries leave permanent scars or require skin grafts and reconstructive surgery. In the worst cases, pedestrians may suffer amputations due to irreparable tissue damage.

Our firm works with cosmetic surgeons and vocational counselors to ensure your claim includes costs for physical rehabilitation, prosthetics, and future employment accommodations.

Emotional Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

The psychological toll of a hit-and-run is often as profound as the physical damage. Victims may relive the incident through flashbacks, nightmares, or anxiety—especially when crossing streets or walking near traffic. Children and elderly victims are particularly susceptible.

We ensure that mental health is never overlooked in a personal injury claim. Through collaboration with local mental health providers, we document your suffering thoroughly and seek damages for therapy, medication, and emotional support systems.

If You’ve Suffered a Pedestrian Injury, Get Help Now

Hit-and-run injuries are devastating—but you don’t have to navigate recovery alone. At Kreeger Law, we support injury victims across Sacramento with aggressive legal advocacy and personalized care. Whether you’re facing a traumatic brain injury or emotional distress, we’ll fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Liability in Sacramento Hit-and-Run Cases

Establishing liability is one of the most critical steps in any pedestrian accident case. However, when the responsible party flees the scene, as in hit-and-run cases, proving fault becomes more complex. At Kreeger Law, we use proven legal strategies and investigative tools to hold negligent drivers accountable and ensure our clients receive the justice they deserve.

Driver Responsibility in California Hit-and-Run Accidents

Under California law, any driver involved in an accident that causes injury or death must stop, render aid, and report the incident to authorities. Failing to do so is not just unethical—it’s a crime. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 outlines that a hit-and-run resulting in injury or death is a felony offense, punishable by fines, license suspension, and potential prison time. You can review this law in detail on the California Legislative Information website.

Despite these legal obligations, thousands of hit-and-run incidents still occur each year in California. According to a report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, over 2,000 deaths nationwide in 2021 were attributed to hit-and-runs. The majority of these victims were pedestrians or cyclists.

When a driver flees, identifying them is the first and most urgent step. Unfortunately, time is critical—every minute that passes can mean lost evidence, fading memories, or missing surveillance footage.

How Our Legal Team Investigates Hit-and-Run Claims

At Kreeger Law, we don’t wait for the authorities to do all the work. Our legal team acts swiftly and decisively. We begin by launching a comprehensive investigation to uncover every shred of evidence, including:

• Traffic and security camera footage from businesses and intersections near the scene.
• Witness statements from bystanders or fellow pedestrians, especially in group activities like organized runs.
• Social media activity and community alerts to crowdsource potential leads.
• Vehicle debris such as broken mirrors or paint transfer, which can be used to identify vehicle make and model.

In collaboration with Sacramento law enforcement and private investigators, we piece together the events that led to the accident. This enables us to either locate the at-fault driver or, when identification isn’t possible, seek compensation through alternative routes such as your uninsured motorist policy.

When the Driver Cannot Be Found

In some hit-and-run cases, despite best efforts, the at-fault driver is never located. However, that doesn’t mean victims are left without options.

California requires all auto insurance policies to offer Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. If you carry UM coverage, it may apply to pedestrian accidents. This allows us to file a claim against your own policy, treating the unidentified driver as uninsured. Although dealing with your own insurer can be stressful, our team manages every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and your settlement is fair.

Additionally, in rare cases where a city’s infrastructure played a role—such as a malfunctioning crosswalk signal or obscured signage—we may pursue a government liability claim under California Government Code Section 835, which outlines public entity responsibility for dangerous conditions on public property.

The Role of Comparative Fault in California Pedestrian Cases

California follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that even if a pedestrian is partially at fault—for example, by crossing against a signal—they may still recover damages. However, the final compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned.

Insurance companies frequently exploit this system, attempting to shift blame onto the victim to reduce their payout. At Kreeger Law, we aggressively challenge these tactics by presenting compelling evidence and expert testimony to support your case.

We also ensure that all potential sources of compensation are explored, including third-party liability when applicable—for instance, if a rideshare company or employer was involved.

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

The moments following a pedestrian accident can feel overwhelming. Shock, confusion, and injury often make it hard to think clearly. However, what you do—or don’t do—immediately after a hit-and-run can significantly impact your recovery and any legal claim you may pursue. Taking the right steps protects your health, your rights, and your financial future.

Seek Emergency Care As Soon As Possible

Your health should be the top priority. Many serious injuries—including internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries—may not be obvious right away. Adrenaline can mask pain, causing victims to underestimate their condition.

Seek emergency care at a facility like UC Davis Medical Center, which has a Level I trauma center and specializes in complex injuries. Prompt medical evaluation not only ensures your safety but also creates crucial documentation for your injury claim.

After receiving care, follow all treatment recommendations and attend follow-up appointments. Insurance adjusters often scrutinize medical records for gaps in treatment to dispute the seriousness of your injuries.

File a Police Report of the Incident

Under California law, drivers must report accidents involving injury or death. However, in a hit-and-run, this responsibility falls on the victim. Contact the Sacramento Police Department immediately to file a report. Officers will document key facts, gather witness statements, and initiate the investigation.

The police report becomes a foundational piece of evidence in your legal case. It supports your narrative, confirms your injuries, and may include leads on the suspect vehicle. You can find reporting instructions directly on the City of Sacramento Police Department website.

Document Everything

If you are physically able, take photos and videos of the accident scene before conditions change. Important things to capture include:

• Your injuries
• Vehicle debris
• Skid marks or tire tracks
• Traffic signals and signage
• Surveillance cameras nearby

Also, gather contact information from any eyewitnesses. Bystanders may have noticed details that you missed in the moment, such as the make and model of the vehicle or the direction the driver fled.

We recommend saving this information in both digital and physical formats. Preserve clothing worn at the time of the crash and keep a journal detailing your symptoms and emotional state.

Avoid Speaking with the Driver’s Insurance Company

If the at-fault driver is identified later, their insurance company may contact you. These representatives are trained to minimize liability and may use your statements to weaken your claim.

Avoid giving any recorded statements, signing documents, or accepting a settlement offer without first speaking to an attorney. At Kreeger Law, we handle all communications with insurers so that you don’t have to. Our legal team ensures your rights are fully protected while we pursue maximum compensation.

If you’re filing a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage, the same rule applies. Even your insurer may attempt to settle for less than you deserve. Let a skilled attorney manage those conversations on your behalf.

Consult with a Sacramento Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney

Time is critical in hit-and-run investigations. Delays can lead to lost evidence, expired security footage, and missed legal deadlines. Engaging a trusted attorney early in the process gives you the best chance to secure compensation.

At Kreeger Law, our team immediately launches an investigation, protects your legal rights, and builds a compelling case on your behalf. We coordinate with local law enforcement, access video footage, work with medical providers, and handle all insurance negotiations.

We also offer free consultations, so there’s no financial risk in getting expert legal advice. Contact us today to start your recovery journey with an experienced Sacramento hit and run accident attorney by your side.

Why Hit-and-Run Accidents Are on the Rise in California

California has seen a troubling rise in hit-and-run accidents over the past decade, with Sacramento reflecting this statewide trend. Despite increased public awareness and stricter penalties, these incidents continue to escalate, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and deep uncertainty. Understanding the root causes of this surge is key to prevention, accountability, and advocacy.

Distracted Driving Is More Widespread Than Ever

Mobile devices have revolutionized communication—but they’ve also introduced dangerous distractions behind the wheel. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), distracted driving remains one of the top causes of collisions across the state, contributing to pedestrian injuries and fatalities alike.

Drivers using smartphones often miss crosswalks, fail to see pedestrians in time, or drift into marked pedestrian zones. In a panic after striking someone, many flee rather than stop to render aid or take responsibility. This reaction transforms a simple accident into a criminal hit-and-run.

Fear of Legal Consequences Encourages Fleeing the Scene

California law treats hit-and-run crashes as serious offenses. Under Vehicle Code § 20001, any driver who leaves the scene of an accident causing injury or death can be charged with a felony. Despite this, many drivers flee out of fear of arrest, license suspension, or increased insurance premiums.

This trend is particularly common among drivers who:

• Lack valid insurance or a license
• Are driving under the influence
• Have outstanding warrants
• Are undocumented or fearful of law enforcement

While these motivations may seem understandable, fleeing the scene leaves victims without immediate assistance and often delays crucial medical treatment.

High Traffic Volume and Urban Growth Add to the Problem

California’s urban hubs, including Sacramento, have experienced rapid population growth and increased congestion. This growth translates to more vehicles, more pedestrians, and more opportunities for collisions—especially in neighborhoods like Midtown, Downtown, and around university campuses.

Sacramento’s own Vision Zero initiative has acknowledged the challenge of pedestrian safety amid the city’s urban expansion. With more people navigating streets on foot and on bikes, the stakes are higher—and the consequences of driver negligence more severe.

Limited Law Enforcement and Investigative Resources

While Sacramento Police and CHP strive to investigate hit-and-runs thoroughly, limited resources and growing caseloads make it difficult to resolve every incident. As a result, many cases go cold—especially if the victim is unable to identify the vehicle or if surveillance footage is not immediately secured.

This lack of closure often forces victims to pursue compensation through uninsured motorist policies, making strong legal representation essential. At Kreeger Law, we assist clients in coordinating with law enforcement while conducting our own investigations to uncover leads and secure compensation.

Holding Hit-and-Run Drivers Accountable Is Essential

Preventing further tragedies begins with accountability. Public education, legislative reform, and community advocacy are all essential to reducing these incidents statewide. However, when accidents happen, legal action is often the only path to justice.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run crash in Sacramento, our team is ready to act. We aggressively pursue justice for victims and fight to make our city safer—one case at a time.

What Compensation Can Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents Recover?

Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Sacramento face not only serious physical injuries but also overwhelming financial burdens. Fortunately, California law allows these victims to pursue compensation for a wide range of damages—whether the at-fault driver is identified or not. At Kreeger Law, we fight aggressively to ensure that every client receives the full value of their claim.

Medical Expenses: From ER Visits to Long-Term Care

Medical costs are often the largest and most immediate concern for hit-and-run victims. Compensation can include:

• Emergency room treatment
• Hospital stays
• Surgeries and specialist care
• Prescription medications
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Assistive devices (wheelchairs, crutches, prosthetics)

Even minor injuries can generate thousands in expenses, while more serious cases involving traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or spinal trauma can lead to lifelong care needs. We work with Sacramento’s top medical providers to estimate both current and future medical costs, ensuring your recovery is fully covered.

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

Injuries from pedestrian accidents often force victims to take time off work—or prevent them from returning altogether. If your injuries affect your ability to earn a living, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Lost wages from missed work
• Future lost income
• Reduced earning potential
• Loss of career opportunities

Whether you’re an hourly employee, self-employed, or a salaried professional, we calculate your losses based on detailed financial documentation and expert analysis.

Pain and Suffering

Not all damages are financial. California law recognizes the emotional and psychological toll that accidents inflict. Victims may seek compensation for:

• Chronic pain
• Emotional distress
• Anxiety and depression
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Pain and suffering awards are highly variable, but at Kreeger Law, we build compelling narratives backed by medical evaluations and mental health assessments to ensure this aspect of your claim is taken seriously.

Property Damage

Though often overlooked in pedestrian cases, property loss can still occur. If your personal belongings were damaged during the accident—such as a phone, bicycle, fitness tracker, or eyeglasses—you can claim reimbursement. We help document and calculate these losses to add to your total compensation package.

Punitive Damages in Extreme Cases

When a hit-and-run involves egregious behavior—such as fleeing the scene while intoxicated or after multiple prior offenses—California courts may award punitive damages. These are not tied to your losses but are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

Although punitive damages are not guaranteed, we evaluate each case closely for qualifying factors. When applicable, we pursue these aggressively to hold reckless drivers fully accountable.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage and Alternative Recovery Options

In cases where the driver cannot be found, compensation may still be available through your own auto insurance under the uninsured motorist (UM) policy. This coverage typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering—similar to a traditional injury claim.

Our attorneys handle UM claims directly with your insurer, ensuring your rights are protected and your compensation is fair. For more details on how UM claims work, visit the California Department of Insurance’s UM resource.

Let Kreeger Law Help You Maximize Your Compensation

At Kreeger Law, we understand that every hit-and-run case is unique. We tailor our legal strategies to reflect the full scope of your injuries and financial losses. Whether we’re negotiating with insurers or litigating in court, our goal remains the same: to secure maximum compensation for every client we represent.

Don’t navigate this complex process alone, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Real Stories, Real Recoveries: How Kreeger Law Supports Sacramento Victims

Behind every pedestrian accident headline is a person whose life was changed in an instant. At Kreeger Law, we don’t just see case numbers—we see families, futures, and stories that deserve justice. Here in Sacramento, the increase in pedestrian-related accidents has affected residents of every age, background, and neighborhood. These real-life incidents reflect just how devastating, and how urgent, these situations truly are.

Northgate Boulevard Tragedy: A Routine Morning Turns Fatal

In one heartbreaking case, a pedestrian was struck and killed on Northgate Boulevard in Sacramento during early morning hours. According to KCRA News, the victim was walking when a vehicle fatally collided with them—underscoring the vulnerability pedestrians face, even in routine daily activities.

At Kreeger Law, we’ve represented victims in similar scenarios—those who were hit on their way to work, school, or simply crossing the street in their own neighborhood. When a tragedy like this occurs, we launch a full investigation, preserve traffic footage, and ensure the victim’s family receives compassionate, aggressive legal support.

Life-Altering Brain Injuries Deserve More Than Sympathy

Another recent local story shared by ABC10 highlighted a woman who died from a severe brain injury following a Sacramento crash. This tragic event echoes many of the traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases we’ve seen firsthand—where injuries are not visible but carry devastating, lifelong impacts.

We work directly with neurologists, trauma surgeons, and rehabilitation experts to evaluate the full medical consequences of TBIs. And when the at-fault party flees the scene, as so often happens, we use every legal avenue available—including uninsured motorist claims—to ensure that justice is not out of reach.

When Crime and Negligence Collide: Legal Support Beyond the Crash

While many pedestrian injuries stem from traffic incidents, others occur in the context of broader crimes. For instance, a recent robbery suspect in Tracy was arrested after a vehicle-related confrontation at a gas station, as reported by KCRA. In such situations, victims may suffer both physical injuries and emotional trauma tied to criminal acts.

Our firm not only pursues civil compensation but also collaborates with law enforcement to support victims navigating both the legal and criminal justice systems. Whether your case intersects with robbery, DUI, or violent assault, we tailor our legal strategy to address the full scope of harm you’ve endured.

Pedestrian Killed on Highway 51: The Urgency of Highway Safety

In yet another sobering incident, a pedestrian was fatally struck on Highway 51, as reported by Yahoo News. High-speed corridors pose extraordinary risks for anyone on foot, especially in areas not designed for pedestrian access.

We’ve handled multiple cases involving highway and freeway incidents—cases that require technical investigation, expert witness testimony, and deep knowledge of California vehicle and pedestrian laws. In these matters, time is of the essence. Our attorneys act quickly to preserve evidence, work with accident reconstructionists, and support grieving families through the legal process.

Kreeger Law: Turning Pain Into Power Through Legal Advocacy

These cases are not just headlines—they’re reminders of what’s at stake. At Kreeger Law, we bring both legal precision and human compassion to every case we handle. Our mission is simple: to give a voice to the voiceless and hold negligent parties accountable for the pain they’ve caused.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a pedestrian-related accident, we are here to listen, to act, and to win. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

How Long Do You Have to File a Hit-and-Run Injury Claim in California?

Timing is everything after a hit-and-run accident. Waiting too long to take legal action can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. California law places strict limits on how long you have to file a personal injury claim—and missing these deadlines can mean permanently losing your right to justice.

At Kreeger Law, we act quickly and decisively to ensure your case is filed on time and on solid legal ground.

The Standard Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in California

In most personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents and hit-and-runs, California imposes a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the incident. This means you must file a lawsuit within two years of the accident—or you may lose your legal right to seek compensation entirely.

This rule is codified under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, which applies to actions involving “assault, battery, or injury to…an individual caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another.”

If you’re uncertain whether your case falls within this window, our legal team can help assess your eligibility and make sure no deadline is missed.

Special Rules for Uninsured Motorist Claims

If the at-fault driver in a hit-and-run cannot be found, your only avenue for compensation may be through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM claims are governed not by state statute but by the terms of your auto insurance policy.

Most insurance companies require that UM claims be filed within 1 to 2 years—and in some cases, as little as 6 months. These internal deadlines can vary, so it’s essential to act fast. At Kreeger Law, we assist clients with policy reviews and file UM claims directly with insurers to protect their rights.

For more information, you can also review consumer guidance on UM claims from the California Department of Insurance.

Exceptions That May Extend or Shorten the Deadline

There are a few exceptions to California’s standard two-year rule. These include:

• Delayed Discovery Rule: If an injury wasn’t immediately apparent, the clock may start from the date the injury was discovered.
• Minor Victims: If the injured pedestrian is a child under 18, the statute of limitations may be “tolled” (paused) until they reach adulthood.
• Claims Against Government Entities: If a city, county, or state agency contributed to the accident—due to poor road maintenance or faulty traffic signals—you must file an administrative claim within six months under the California Tort Claims Act.

These exceptions can complicate your case, but they also offer potential pathways for justice if you think you’ve missed the standard deadline. Our legal team thoroughly investigates every case to determine what timeline applies and ensure all filings are submitted correctly.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Take Legal Action

Even if you believe you have plenty of time to file, acting early improves your chances of success. The sooner we can begin investigating, gathering evidence, and consulting experts, the stronger your claim becomes.

Delays can result in:

• Lost witness testimony
• Disappearing surveillance footage
• Medical documentation gaps
• Difficulty identifying the at-fault driver

With Kreeger Law, you won’t have to navigate the legal system alone. We take immediate action to preserve evidence and meet every deadline—so you can focus on healing, not paperwork.

Injured in a Sacramento Hit-and-Run? Kreeger Law Is Ready to Help

When a pedestrian is injured or killed in a hit-and-run accident, the aftermath is overwhelming—physically, emotionally, and financially. At Kreeger Law, we understand the depth of your pain. More importantly, we know how to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

As a tenured and award-winning Sacramento personal injury law firm, we have helped countless victims and families move forward after devastating accidents. Whether the driver is identified or remains unknown, we take immediate action to investigate your case, preserve vital evidence, and pursue every available legal option—including uninsured motorist claims and municipal liability actions.

You don’t have to do this alone. We are your advocate, your voice, and your ally—every step of the way.

Why Clients Trust Kreeger Law:

• Over two decades of personal injury trial experience
• Deep understanding of Sacramento’s pedestrian laws and insurance regulations
• Proven results in high-stakes pedestrian and hit-and-run cases
• Compassionate, client-first approach with no legal fees unless we win

If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain exactly how we can help you move forward—with strength and confidence.