San Francisco news reports that two people have died in a fatal ride sharing accident. According to the medical examiner’s office, the individuals were a Lyft driver and passenger. They died after being struck by a hit-and-run driver. The driver has not yet been apprehended, but police are still searching for the responsible party.
Drivers who leave the scene of an injury accident may face both criminal and civil charges. Under California law, drivers are required to stop following an accident as soon as is safe and practicable, and exchange contact information. Fleeing the scene where an injury occurs may constitute a felony.
However, while ideally the driver will be brought to justice in this and all hit and run accident matters, those injured by hit-and-run drivers are not without recourse, even if the responsible party is not apprehended. In these instances, it may be able to file a claim with your own (or in the instance of a wrongful death, the decedent’s) un-insured motorist policy.
Your insurance would cover medical bills, loss of income and non-economic damages.
Furthermore, rideshare drivers in California are required to carry both personal insurance and uninsured motorist coverage for each accident and each person. Thus, it is possible that additional coverage may exist in this instance.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, once your medical needs or your loved one’s medical needs have been addressed, the best thing to do is contact a San Francisco personal injury lawyer. Even in straight forward seeming accidents, insurance companies may be difficult to work with and may not have your best interests in mind. It’s important to have someone on your side, to help ensure you or your loved one obtains the best legal advice and recovery possible.
For more information or to speak with our experienced Bay Area accident lawyers, please contact the experienced San Francisco personal injury attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson for an immediate consultation.