Hit and Run
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without stopping to provide their information, offer assistance, or wait for law enforcement to arrive. Hit-and-run incidents are illegal and can lead to serious legal consequences for the fleeing driver, including criminal charges and civil liability. Victims of hit-and-run accidents often face significant challenges in obtaining compensation for damages and injuries, especially when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. At 770GoodLaw, we work with hit-and-run victims to pursue all available avenues for recovery, including claims against uninsured motorist coverage and other legal options to secure fair compensation.
Legal Obligations in a Hit-and-Run Accident
Drivers involved in an accident have specific legal responsibilities that must be fulfilled to avoid a hit-and-run charge. Key obligations include:
- Stopping at the Scene: All drivers must stop after an accident, whether it involves another vehicle, a pedestrian, or property. Leaving the scene without stopping is considered fleeing and may result in criminal charges.
- Providing Contact and Insurance Information: Drivers must exchange their names, contact details, and insurance information with other parties involved in the accident.
- Offering Reasonable Assistance: In accidents involving injuries, drivers have a legal duty to offer assistance, such as calling for emergency medical help if needed.
- Notifying Law Enforcement: In cases involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage, drivers must report the accident to law enforcement, even if the other party is not present.
Consequences for Drivers in a Hit-and-Run
Hit-and-run offenses carry serious legal consequences for drivers who flee the scene, as they violate state laws and endanger the well-being of others. Common consequences include:
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Criminal Charges: Hit-and-run is a criminal offense, ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the severity of the accident and any injuries sustained. Felony charges can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
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Civil Liability: Fleeing the scene does not exempt the at-fault driver from liability. They may still be held financially responsible for the victim’s damages, including medical expenses, property repair costs, and pain and suffering.
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Driver’s License Suspension: Many states impose license suspensions or revocations for hit-and-run offenses, limiting the driver’s ability to legally operate a vehicle.
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Insurance Consequences: Drivers involved in a hit-and-run may face increased insurance premiums or loss of coverage, making it more challenging to secure affordable insurance in the future.
Compensation Options for Hit-and-Run Victims
For victims of hit-and-run accidents, securing compensation can be challenging, especially if the fleeing driver cannot be identified. However, victims have several options for pursuing recovery, including:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: Many auto insurance policies include UM coverage, which can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): In some states, PIP coverage can help cover medical bills and lost wages for the policyholder, regardless of who is at fault, including in hit-and-run cases.
- Collision Coverage: If a victim’s vehicle is damaged in a hit-and-run, collision coverage can help pay for repairs, although the victim may still be responsible for the deductible.
- Crime Victims’ Compensation Programs: Some states offer compensation programs for crime victims, which may provide financial assistance for medical bills and other expenses resulting from a hit-and-run accident.
- Pursuing Civil Litigation: If the fleeing driver is eventually identified, the victim may file a civil lawsuit to recover damages. This may include seeking compensation for medical costs, property damage, lost income, pain and suffering, and punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, taking specific steps can help protect your rights and improve your chances of obtaining compensation. Important steps include:
- Documenting the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, any damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries to support your claim.
- Gathering Witness Information: If there are witnesses, obtain their contact information and ask them to provide statements about what they saw.
- Reporting the Incident: File a police report to document the hit-and-run, as this report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal action.
- Seeking Medical Attention: Obtain medical care promptly to assess and treat any injuries, creating a medical record that can support your claim.
- Contacting Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer about the hit-and-run to begin the claims process, providing them with all available information and documentation.
- Consulting a Lawyer: Legal guidance can help you understand your rights, explore compensation options, and handle interactions with insurance companies effectively.
How 770GoodLaw Assists Hit-and-Run Victims
At 770GoodLaw, we understand the unique challenges that hit-and-run victims face in recovering compensation. Our team is dedicated to supporting clients through every step of the claims process, from gathering evidence to exploring alternative recovery options. Our approach includes:
- Investigating the Accident: We work to identify potential evidence, such as security camera footage or witness statements, that may help identify the fleeing driver.
- Pursuing Uninsured Motorist Claims: If the at-fault driver is unidentified, we assist clients in filing claims with their own insurance under UM coverage to secure compensation.
- Negotiating with Insurers: We handle all communications with insurance companies, advocating for a fair settlement that fully compensates clients for their damages.
- Representing Clients in Court: If the fleeing driver is identified and litigation is necessary, we represent our clients in court to hold the driver accountable and pursue maximum compensation.
Importance of Legal Representation in Hit-and-Run Cases
Hit-and-run cases involve complex legal issues, including navigating insurance policies, collecting evidence, and potentially pursuing litigation. Skilled legal representation ensures that victims’ rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their losses. At 770GoodLaw, we provide comprehensive support to hit-and-run victims, guiding them through the legal process with expertise and dedication.
Why Choose 770GoodLaw for Hit-and-Run Claims
Our commitment to Relentless Reliability and Sincetegrity drives us to provide comprehensive, client-focused support for hit-and-run victims. At 770GoodLaw, we work tirelessly to secure fair compensation, helping clients recover physically, emotionally, and financially from these traumatic incidents.
