A hit-and-run accident is: “Being or involving the driver of a motor vehicle who leaves the scene of an accident, especially one in which a pedestrian or another vehicle has been struck.” Under state law, if someone is injured, the person who caused the injury must provide relevant insurance information and call for emergency services. If they fail to do so, especially in cases involving innocent pedestrians or cyclists, they can be punished to the extent of the law.
There are many reasons drivers may leave the scene of an accident. They could be an undocumented alien or lack proper car insurance. They could also be intoxicated or just scared. Hit-and-run accidents are a very serious offense and usually result in a conviction, a fine, and damages paid to the victim for injuries and property damage. If a victim dies in the accident, it can be considered a felony.
Trauma from a hit-and-run often leaves victims unable to recover completely and resume their daily tasks. Quality of life may decrease, and the victim’s ability to provide for their family may be compromised. Injuries may include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, head trauma, and neck and back injuries.
So, what should you do if you are a victim of a hit-and-run? First, you should try and identify the driver. If you can, write down their license plate number. Identifying the car’s make, model, and color helps law enforcement authorities track down the offender. It also helps insurance adjusters determine the extent of damage caused by a particular vehicle.
If you cannot identify the driver, it will not be possible to recover damages from their insurance company. If the accident involves two vehicles, you can recover the cost through your insurance company under uninsured or underinsured motorists’ coverage.
Next, you should notify the police within 24 hours of the collision. Then, file a police report. Once the police have the accident on record, speak with an attorney who can file a claim with your insurance company. It’s important to give as much detail as possible about the hit-and-run accident. Finally, get your car fixed. It can be done by the certified shop that gave you your estimate or from a shop of your choice. Be sure to show the mechanic the estimate from your insurance company.
Hit-and-run accidents are multifaceted, and laws vary from state to state. Our hit-and-run injury attorneys at Eason and Tambornini, A Law Corporation, are familiar with the complexities of these accidents and have helped our clients negotiate fair settlements with insurance adjusters even if the offender is never identified.
