hit and run lawyers los angeles car accidents

Hit And Run Lawyers Los Angeles | A Guide

Los Angeles, a sprawling metropolis known for its vibrant culture and endless traffic, is no stranger to car accidents. Among these, hit-and-run incidents stand out as particularly distressing, leaving victims grappling with injuries, property damage, and the frustration of an absent culprit. In such cases, a Los Angeles hit-and-run lawyer becomes an essential ally, helping victims seek justice and compensation in a city where these incidents are all too common.

Hit And Run Lawyers Los Angeles

Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision flees the scene without stopping to provide aid or exchange information, as required by California law. In Los Angeles, the problem is magnified by the sheer volume of vehicles—millions traverse its freeways and streets daily. According to recent data, California consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of hit-and-run fatalities, with Los Angeles County often at the epicenter. Whether it’s a fender bender or a tragic collision, the aftermath can leave victims feeling helpless, especially if the responsible party vanishes.

Top 20 Hit and Run Lawyers in Los Angeles (2025)

Here’s a curated list of notable Los Angeles attorneys and firms known for handling hit-and-run cases, based on reputation and expertise in personal injury or criminal defense. (Note: This is a general compilation as of March 12, 2025—verify current standings with local directories or reviews.)

Each entry includes the lawyer’s name, firm, and a brief description of their expertise, as provided.

NameFirmSpecialty
Hart J. LevinThe Law Offices of Hart J. LevinSpecializes in DUI and hit-and-run defense with a prosecutor’s insight.
Brian BreiterLaw Offices of Brian BreiterRenowned for personal injury, including hit-and-run victim advocacy.
Barry P. GoldbergLaw Offices of Barry P. GoldbergExpert in UM claims and hit-and-run compensation cases.
Christopher ChaneyThe Law Offices of Christopher ChaneyAggressive defense for hit-and-run charges with early intervention focus.
Aaron SpolinSpolin Law P.C.Criminal defense star tackling felony hit-and-run cases.
David AziziLaw Offices of David AziziPersonal injury veteran with a knack for hit-and-run settlements.
Nick MovagarM&Y Personal Injury LawyersCo-founder of a firm with $800M+ recovered, including hit-and-run wins.
Ron HoffmanHoffman & Associates30+ years defending hit-and-run clients with courtroom savvy.
Edwin SaghianOmega Law Group, PCMulti-million-dollar advocate for hit-and-run victims.
Jonathan FranklinLos Angeles Criminal LawyerFormer prosecutor turned defense attorney for hit-and-run cases.
Arash KhorsandiArash LawLeads a powerhouse firm with $500M+ for accident victims.
Siamak VaziriVaziri Law GroupSecures big payouts for hit-and-run injury claims.
Eunice S. HahnLaw Offices of Eunice S. HahnCompassionate yet fierce representation in hit-and-run disputes.
Michael AkivaJacoby & MeyersManaging partner steering hit-and-run victims to recovery.
William S. KrogerWilliam S. Kroger Attorney At LawTop-rated defense for hit-and-run accusations.
Seppi EsfandiEsfandi Law GroupEx-public defender now fighting for hit-and-run clients.
Kirk M. TarmanLaw Offices of Kirk Tarman & AssociatesHands-on defense for DUI and hit-and-run charges.
Alex AndryuschenkoDUI and Criminal Defense Law FirmBilingual expertise in hit-and-run defense since 2003.
Matthew BarhomaPower Trial Lawyers, P.C.High-profile defender with a 93% trial success rate.
John McNicholasMcNicholas & McNicholas LLPFamily firm with $1B+ recovered, including hit-and-run cases.

Drivers flee for various reasons: lack of insurance, fear of legal consequences, or even intoxication. Whatever the motive, the impact on victims is profound—medical bills pile up, wages are lost, and emotional trauma sets in. This is where a specialized hit-and-run lawyer steps in, offering expertise tailored to these complex cases.

What Does a Hit-and-Run Lawyer Do?

A Los Angeles hit-and-run lawyer serves two primary roles: advocating for victims seeking compensation and, in some cases, defending those accused of fleeing the scene. For victims, the lawyer’s mission is to secure financial recovery, even when the at-fault driver remains unidentified. This often involves navigating insurance claims under uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, a type of insurance many Californians carry to protect against such scenarios. Without UM coverage, or if damages exceed policy limits, a skilled attorney might explore other avenues, such as identifying third-party liability (e.g., poor road conditions or defective vehicles) or working with law enforcement to track down the perpetrator.

For those accused of a hit-and-run, lawyers provide criminal defense. In California, hit-and-run offenses can range from misdemeanors (for property damage) to felonies (if injury or death occurs), carrying penalties like fines, jail time, or license suspension. A defense attorney might argue lack of intent, mistaken identity, or that the client wasn’t driving, aiming to reduce charges or secure a dismissal.

Why Los Angeles Needs These Specialists

The city’s unique challenges—dense traffic, diverse population, and stretched law enforcement resources—make hit-and-run cases particularly tricky. Police may struggle to prioritize tracking down every fleeing driver, leaving victims to fend for themselves. Meanwhile, the legal landscape is complex: California’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, comparative fault laws, and insurance intricacies demand a lawyer who knows the terrain. A Los Angeles hit-and-run lawyer brings local insight, from understanding LAPD procedures to negotiating with insurance giants headquartered nearby.

los angeles Car-Accident-Statistics hit and run lawyers and attorneys

Choosing the Right Lawyer

If you’re a victim or facing charges, selecting the right attorney is critical. Look for someone with experience in hit-and-run cases specifically—general personal injury or criminal defense lawyers may lack the nuanced expertise required. Many offer free consultations, allowing you to gauge their approach without upfront costs. Since most victim-side attorneys work on a contingency fee basis (no payment unless they win), financial risk is minimized, but it’s wise to clarify terms upfront.

Reputation matters too. Client reviews, case results, and professional accolades can signal competence. In a city like Los Angeles, where legal talent abounds, you’ll also want someone responsive and empathetic—hit-and-run cases are stressful, and a lawyer’s support can ease the burden.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

Victims, act fast: call 911, seek medical care (even for minor aches), and document everything—photos, witnesses, a fleeting license plate glimpse. A police report is non-negotiable for insurance claims. Then, loop in a lawyer pronto to sidestep pitfalls like missed deadlines or lowball insurer offers. Quick moves strengthen your hand.

A Path Forward

Hit-and-run accidents test resilience, but a Los Angeles hit-and-run lawyer can turn chaos into clarity. Whether you’re seeking damages or defending your rights, their expertise bridges the gap between incident and resolution. In a city where the roads never rest, having a dedicated advocate ensures you don’t face the aftermath alone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum punishment for a hit and run?

For a misdemeanor hit-and-run (property damage only) in California, the minimum is a fine up to $1,000 and/or up to 6 months in county jail. Felony cases (injury or death) carry harsher penalties.

What is called a hit and run?

A hit-and-run is when a driver involved in an accident flees the scene without stopping to provide aid or exchange information, as required by law.

What are most lawyer fees for a car accident?

Most car accident lawyers in California charge a contingency fee of 33%–40% of the settlement or award, only paid if you win.

Can I sue for a hit-and-run in California?

Yes, you can sue for damages (e.g., medical bills, property) if the driver is identified, or pursue uninsured motorist coverage if they’re not.

What is the hit-and-run law in Los Angeles?

California Vehicle Code 20002 (misdemeanor) and 20001 (felony) apply in LA: drivers must stop, provide info, and aid victims after an accident, or face penalties.

How much do car accident lawyers charge in California?

Typically, 33%–40% of your recovery on contingency; no upfront fees. Flat or hourly rates (e.g., $200–$500/hour) are rare for these cases.

What is the charge of a hit-and-run in California?

Misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail and $1,000 fine (property damage). Felony: up to 4 years prison and $10,000 fine (injury/death).

Hit and run lawyer cost?

For victims, usually 33%–40% contingency fee. For defense, expect $2,000–$10,000+ flat fee or $200–$500/hour, depending on case complexity.

Hit and run lawyer no injury?

Yes, lawyers handle property-damage-only cases, often for insurance claims or misdemeanor defense, with similar contingency or hourly rates.

Hit and run lawyer near me?

Search “hit and run lawyer Los Angeles” online or use directories like Avvo or Yelp to find local attorneys; many offer free consultations.

What should I look for in a lawyer for hit-and-run accidents?

Seek a personal injury lawyer if you’re a victim or a criminal defense attorney if you’re accused. Prioritize those with specific hit-and-run experience, and review their track record and client feedback for confidence.

I committed a hit-and-run—how soon might the police track me down?

It depends on the evidence—witnesses, security footage, or license plate details could lead to you in days or months. Minor cases might not be heavily pursued unless reported. Contact a lawyer right away for guidance.

Lawyers Guide
Author: Lawyers Guide

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