Hit-and-Run in Oakland Causes Injury on Northbound I-880

Hit-and-Run in Oakland Occurs Near 5th Avenue Off-Ramp

A hit-and-run in Oakland early on December 21 left at least one person injured. The incident occurred following a two-vehicle collision on northbound Interstate 880 near the off-ramp for 5th Avenue. The crash happened at approximately 5:37 a.m. and involved a Toyota sedan and a Chrysler sedan. 

Medical Help Called to Scene of Hit-and-Run in Oakland

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), responding officers found the Toyota stopped on the right-hand shoulder with visible damage. The other vehicle reportedly fled the scene before law enforcement arrived. Emergency medical personnel were dispatched to the area to assist the injured parties. The extent of the injuries has not yet been released.

Police Looking for Fleeing Driver

CHP officers are investigating the incident and working to identify the driver responsible for fleeing the scene. Anyone with information about this hit-and-run is urged to contact the Oakland CHP office.

How an Oakland Hit-and-Run Lawyer Helps Locate the Driver

When a hit-and-run in Oakland leaves those in the vehicle injured and shaken, a skilled accident lawyer becomes an invaluable advocate. Attorneys experienced in these cases use multiple investigative tools to locate the at-fault driver. They often begin by obtaining the official CHP accident report, which may include witness statements or partial license plate numbers. Skilled lawyers also gather evidence from traffic cameras, local businesses’ surveillance systems, or dashcam footage that may identify the fleeing vehicle.

In some cases, accident reconstruction experts and private investigators are brought in to analyze debris, paint transfer, and vehicle damage to track down the responsible party. Prompt action is crucial, as evidence can quickly disappear if not preserved early in the investigation.

Recoverable Damages in an Oakland Hit-and-Run

Those injured in a hit-and-run in Oakland are entitled to pursue compensation for a range of damages if the fleeing driver was at fault. These typically include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. If the reckless actions of a hit-and-run driver cause long-term or catastrophic injuries, additional damages for future medical care and reduced earning capacity may be available.

An experienced Oakland personal injury lawyer will calculate the full extent of these losses and negotiate aggressively with insurers or pursue a civil lawsuit once the driver is identified.

Using Insurance When the Driver Is Not Found

Unfortunately, not every hit-and-run driver is located. In these cases, individuals who have suffered trauma can often turn to their own insurance coverage for help. California law allows injured motorists to file a claim through their uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which compensates them as if the responsible driver had been insured. UM coverage can pay for medical costs, lost wages, and other related losses.

A knowledgeable attorney can handle the complex paperwork and communications with insurance carriers to ensure a fair settlement. Without skilled legal guidance, the injured may face delays or undervalued claims.

Looking for legal representation or free advice? Attorney Ed Smith provides insight on choosing the right lawyer for your situation:

Compassionate Legal Support from Attorney Ed Smith

I am Oakland auto accident lawyer Ed Smith. My dedicated legal team and I understand the emotional and financial hardship that hit-and-run injured individuals may face. We work tirelessly to uncover every possible source of recovery while providing the compassionate support clients need after a traumatic event.

If you sustained injuries in an accident involving a hit-and-run driver, don’t face this alone. Call us at (510) 631-0200 or (800) 404-5400 or visit us online at AutoAccident.com to speak with one of our injury lawyers for free, friendly advice. You deserve justice and peace of mind. Let us help you get both.

Photo attribution: Pixabay

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