According to a report from CBS News, law enforcement are still searching for the driver who fled the scene of a collision that injured six people in Stockton. The accident happened in the overnight hours, near the intersection of March Lane and Pacific Avenue in the northern part of the city. Six people were hurt in the crash. Two of them were transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
Police are still searching for the driver who unlawfully fled the scene of the accident. It is an all-too-common story. Hit-and-run crashes remain a serious safety problem. Within this article, our car accident lawyer in Stockton provides a comprehensive guide to your rights, your options, and what you need to do after a serious hit-and-run crash in California.
All Drivers in California Must Stop, Exchange Information, and Remain at the Scene of a Crash
In California, all drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident must stop, exchange information, and remain at the scene. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges for a hit-and-run. Under California Vehicle Code § 20002, it is a misdemeanor criminal offense to flee the scene of an accident. If the accident results in a serious injury or a death, a leaving the scene of an accident criminal charge may be upgraded to a felony offense.
Note: There is an exception for medical emergencies. Health is the top priority after a car crash. It is not a hit-and-run to leave the scene of an accident in Stockton if emergency medical care is needed.
Hit-and-Run Collisions Happen Far More Often than Many People Realize
Even though motorists have a duty to stop their vehicle and remain at the scene of a crash, too many of them fail to do so. In fact, hit-and-run accidents happen far more often than many people realize. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that “an average of 682,000 hit-and-run crashes occurred per year over the last 10 years.” The organization found that the hit-and-run accident rate in California was ever higher than the national average.
The Most Alarming Statistic: Hit-and-runs happen in even the most serious crashes. According to data cited by KTLA in a report in 2024, ten percent of all fatal accidents in California are hit-and-run collisions. There are more deadly hit-and-run accidents in California than in any other state.
You Have the Right to Seek Compensation (But the Claims Process Can Be More Challenging)
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming. In addition to the physical pain of your injuries, you may feel stressed, frustrated, and unsure of your legal options. Unlike a typical car accident claim, where the at-fault driver is known and their insurance policy can be pursued, hit-and-run claims are more complicated. With that being said, it is by no means a hopeless situation. You have options available to seek justice and financial compensation. There are generally three avenues to recover financial compensation after a hit-and-run crash in Stockton:
- Identify the Hit-and-Run Driver: That a driver unlawfully fled the scene of a crash in Stockton or elsewhere in Central California does not mean that they can never be tracked down. If the at-fault driver can be located, you can bring a claim against their insurance policy or pursue legal action against them personally. A thorough investigation is a must—especially if you or your loved one suffered a serious injury in the crash. A wide range of evidence may be useful, including witness statements, video surveillance, and any other relevant information, such as a vehicle description or partial license plate.
- Seek Benefits Through Your Own UM/UIM Coverage: You may have a hit-and-run accident injury claim through your own insurance company. If the at-fault driver cannot be found, you may still have a path to compensation through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. California law does not require UM/UIM coverage, but many drivers carry it as part of their auto insurance policy. A hit-and-run crash can be treated similar to an uninsured motorist claim if the driver cannot be found or if he or she is eventually found by he or she lacks proper liability insurance coverage.
- Bring a Claim Against a Negligent Third Party: In some hit-and-run cases, another party—a third party beyond the hit-and-run driver—may also share liability. For example, if dangerous road conditions contributed to the crash, the government entity responsible for maintaining the road could potentially be held accountable. Alternatively, if a defective car part played a role, the vehicle manufacturer may be liable through a product liability claim. Further, in multi-vehicle accidents, another negligent driver could have contributed to the crash and may bear fault. A Stockton, CA car accident lawyer can help you identify any third party who may bear legal responsibility for a hit-and-run crash.
Why Trust Redkey Gordon for a Hit-and-Run Car Accident Injury Claim in California
Hit-and-run accident claims are complicated. Following a crash with a driver who fled the scene, it is imperative that you have a top-rated advocate on your side. At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, we help injured victims explore every option for securing full and fair financial compensation. With more than $25 million recovered, our case results demonstrate what we can do for clients. An initial consultation with our Stockton car accident attorney is free, confidential, and carries no obligations.
Consult With Our Stockton, CA Auto Accident Lawyer Today
At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, our Stockton car accident attorneys have extensive experience handling hit-and-run crashes. We are proud to advocate for justice. If you or your family member was hurt in a hit-and-run crash, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free, no strings attached case evaluation. With an office in Stockton, we handle hit-and-run crash claims throughout the San Joaquin Valley, including in Sacramento, Sutter Creek, Lodi, Galt, and Manteca.