What if the driver at fault in a bicycle accident flees the scene?

In California, if a motorist flees the scene of a bicycle accident, they may face criminal penalties for hit-and-run or leaving the scene of an accident. Depending on the cause of the crash, the driver may be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony. In either case, the driver can be fined and/or face a jail sentence if convicted. However, those criminal penalties would not necessarily be the only consequences a driver may face for fleeing the scene of a bicycle accident. Depending on the specific facts of the case, the driver could still be held responsible for damage and injuries they caused even if they left the scene. Under California law, the fleeing driver still may be held liable for damages and injuries suffered by the other party. This means that if the cyclist suffered any physical injuries or incurred any financial losses due to the accident, the driver who fled the scene may be liable for those damages. The injured party may be able to seek financial compensation for their damages through a civil lawsuit, even if criminal charges are never filed or cannot be prosecuted. In any case, fleeing the scene of an accident involving a bicycle can lead to serious consequences for the driver in California. Depending on the situation, the fleeing driver may still be civilly liable for any damages or injuries they caused, in addition to any criminal penalties they may face.

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What if the driver at fault in a bicycle accident flees the scene?

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