Navigating a bicycle through the busy streets of San Diego is rarely an easy task. Even with bike paths and traffic rules designed to protect cyclists in place, many bicyclists are at risk of injury or even death when an accident with a motor vehicle occurs. Other than a helmet, bicyclists have nothing to protect their bodies from the impact of a crash, which can result in catastrophic injuries. The situation becomes even worse, however, when motorists leave the scene of the accident rather than staying and accepting responsibility for their actions.

While most drivers do remain at the scene, a hit-and-run accident can be devastating for those who have suffered bodily injuries and property damage as a result of a bicycle accident. The odds of identifying a hit-and-run driver can be minimal, especially in a city with over 1.4 million people. Some drivers leave the scene because they don’t have a valid driver’s license, or they fear criminal charges due to being intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Hit-and-run accidents also may occur because drivers do not have the required motor vehicle insurance or have outstanding warrants for their arrest from an unrelated incident. Whatever the case may be, leaving the scene of an accident can make things more challenging for the injured party seeking compensation for his or her losses.

When you make a police report at the time of the accident, the police will try to identify the driver who caused the accident. If police locate the driver, then you immediately can file a claim with his or her insurance company. However, if the police never find the driver or the driver whom they locate is uninsured or underinsured, you may have to look to your own insurance policy for assistance.

In many cases, your insurance policy may provide coverage for accidents in which you have suffered injuries or property damage if you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Although this type of coverage is not required, many drivers do have policies that contain this coverage, which can be useful in the case of a hit-and-run accident.

Bonnici Law Group has the experience, knowledge, and reputation that you want and need when you are injured in a bike accident. We are here to help you build the most substantial claim possible for compensation and obtain a positive outcome in your case. Do not hesitate to contact Bonnici Law Group at 858-261-5454 or help@bonnicilawgroup.com.