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Motorcycle Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Los Angeles hit-and-run motorcycle accidents are all too common. Often, motorcycles are hit by negligent drivers, whether by speeding, driving distracted, driving drunk, running a stoplight, or driving without a license or insurance. When these drivers flee the scene, it is challenging for accident victims to recover their losses and damages. Having an experienced attorney on your side can help.

If you or a loved one have been hurt by a hit and run driver, contact a Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer at the Salamati Law Firm to help track down the perpetrator and see that you are compensated for your losses. Schedule a free consultation today.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Hit and Run Accident

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If you are involved in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident, your actions in the moments following the crash are vital for both your safety and your ability to pursue compensation. Here is what you should do:

  • Write down details about the car that hit you: Try to recall any details about the fleeing vehicle, such as its make, model, color, or license plate number and which direction they drove after hitting you.
  • Call 911 and Report the Accident: Filing a police report is one of the most critical steps after a hit-and-run accident, as it may be the only official record linking the accident to the fleeing driver. Police reports also strengthen your case by providing documented details about the accident, including the time, location, and any descriptions of the fleeing driver or vehicle.
  • Collect contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
  • Seek Medical Attention: If you are not transported to the emergency room in an ambulance after a hit-and-run motorcycle accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
  • Avoid Pursuing the Fleeing Driver: While it is understandable to want to confront the driver, your safety is the top priority.
  • Contact a Lawyer: If you were injured in a hit-and-run, you will need the help of Salamati Law.

Insurance Coverage for Motorcycle Hit and Run Accidents

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Motorcyclists in California must carry at least the minimum liability insurance coverage of $15,000/$30,000 for bodily injury and $5,000 for property damage. If you are at fault for an accident, liability insurance pays for the medical bills and other damages incurred by the other parties, as well as their property damages.

However, it doesn’t cover a rider’s lost wages, medical bills, or property damage. Injured cyclists must rely on their own health care coverage or MedPay, which would cover medical costs. Injured motorcyclists can also sue a negligent third party (if applicable), e.g., a manufacturer of defective brakes, via a third-party claim to recover their losses and damages.

Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

While the above liability insurance meets the legal requirements, adding additional coverage is advisable for greater financial protection in an accident. UM/UIM (uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist) coverage is not mandatory in California. However, it provides essential financial protection in the event of an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver. Declining this coverage may save a little money upfront but could leave you financially vulnerable after an accident.

How Can An Injured Motorcyclist in a Hit and Run Recover Damages?

In California, an injured motorcyclist can recover compensation for a hit and run accident through several avenues, even if the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Here’s how:

  • Uninsured Motorist Insurance: As noted, if you have UM/UIM coverage as part of your insurance policy, it can compensate for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage caused by the hit-and-run driver. UM coverage applies in hit-and-run cases because the driver is treated as uninsured.
  • Medical Payments (MedPay): If you have MedPay, it can cover your medical expenses regardless of fault or the other party’s identity. This is a good option for immediate medical bills while other claims are processed.
  • Municipalities and Manufacturers: As noted, if the hit-and-run occurred due to other contributing factors, such as poor road conditions or faulty motorcycle parts, you might have grounds for a third-party claim. You can sue municipalities for unsafe road conditions and manufacturers for defective motorcycle components.

Potential Compensation

Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for the following damages:

  • Vehicle repair costs
  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Physical and emotional distress
  • Scarring or disfigurement
  • Diminished quality of life
  • Wrongful death

How Salamati Law Can Help Injured Motorcyclists

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The unique nature of hit-and-run accidents can complicate the claims process. However, partnering with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Salamati Law can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim.

Our dedicated and hard-working team can do the following:

  • Investigate your case thoroughly, gathering key evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available video footage.
  • Work with medical experts to understand your injuries’ full extent and long-term impact, ensuring your claim reflects all your losses.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that your claim is handled fairly.
  • Guide you through every step of the legal process to ensure that you recover maximum compensation.

At Salamati Law, we are committed to working tirelessly on your behalf to help you obtain the best possible motorcycle accident settlement or verdict after a hit and run motorcycle accident in Los Angeles.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

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At Salamati Law, we understand the complex challenges after you’ve been hurt in a hit and run motorcycle accident. Since 1995, our team has been fiercely dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured clients who have suffered due to the negligence of others. Contact Salamati Law to schedule a no-obligation consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. We will listen to your story, assess your case, and provide clear, honest advice on your next steps.  Since we work on a contingency basis, there are no legal fees unless we win compensation for your damages and losses.

No Obligation, No Fees Guaranteed, Unless We Win

We are committed to negotiate your case aggressively, strategically and creatively. Personal injury lawsuits are retained on a contingency fee agreement, and plaintiffs will pay no legal fees unless the firm is able to recover damages on your behalf.

No Fee Guarantee Unless We Win
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