Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Hit and Run?

My wife was going through an intersection when a speeding police car (apparently chasing someone)ran the light and hit her. He did not stop and did not call for help. My wife was not seriously injured, but her car sustained quite a bit of damage. Is the cop required to stop and see if she's alright before resuming the pursuit?


Asked on 2/07/08, 11:50 pm

5 Answers from Attorneys

Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Hit and Run?

What makes you think the officer didn't call for help? Since he didn't stop, your wife has no idea whether he radioed for help or not.

And no, the he was not required to stop the pursuit under these circumstances. If the law worked that way, people fleeing from the police would have a perverse incentive to hit other vehicles (or even pedestrians) in order to make the police give up the chase.

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Answered on 2/08/08, 12:02 am
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

Re: Hit and Run?

Almost certainly no responsibility on the part of the cop although I suppose this could ultimately depend on whom he was chasing and why. I would not spend too much time on worrying about cop's criminal liability - the longest of long shots. Focus on getting reimbursement for damages, medical costs, etc. Very best.

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com

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Answered on 2/08/08, 2:26 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Hit and Run?

Doesn't matter whether he was or not. What matters is you timely filing your Government Tort Claim for the damages. Feel free to contact me for the legal help you'll need in pursuing the claim and lawsuit that will likely be required.

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Answered on 2/08/08, 1:13 pm
Allen Farshi Law Offices of Allen Farshi

Re: Hit and Run?

Yes. You must File a claim with the city for damages. The process generally takes six months in California.

Good luck

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Answered on 2/08/08, 1:13 pm
Allen Farshi Law Offices of Allen Farshi

Re: Hit and Run?

Yes. You must File a claim with the city for damages. The process generally takes six months in California.

Good luck

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Answered on 2/08/08, 1:13 pm


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