Being in a hit-and-run accident can be a very overwhelming and complicated situation. Not only are you dealing with the shock and potential injuries from the accident, but you are also left with the additional challenge of trying to identify and locate the responsible party.
It’s in your best interest to take certain steps immediately after the incident to help increase the chances of finding the person who fled the scene. However, managing the legal aspects of a hit-and-run case can be tricky, especially when it comes to obtaining compensation for damages and injuries. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you contact an Arlington car accident attorney near you who has experience with hit-and-run accidents to guide you through the process and protect your rights every step of the way.
Arlington Car Accident Guide
The Importance of Taking Immediate Action
After experiencing a hit-and-run accident, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome. Here are the key steps you should take:
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, be sure to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and it is imperative to have a medical professional evaluate your condition. Delayed symptoms can develop into more serious conditions if left untreated.
Preserve Evidence
Preserving evidence is vital in any accident case, including hit-and-run accidents. Take steps to preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as keeping copies of medical records, repair estimates, and any communication with the police or insurance company. This evidence will help support your claims and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Gather Information
While the incident is still fresh in your mind, gather as much information as possible to assist in the ensuing investigation. Take photographs of your vehicle’s damage, injuries, and other relevant details. Write down the description of the other vehicle, including its make, model, color, and license plate number, if you were able to capture it. Collect contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
Legal
Report the Incident
If you didn’t do so at the scene, be sure to report the accident. Contact the local law enforcement agency to report the hit-and-run accident. Please provide them with all the details and information you have gathered. The police report will be an integral document for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings that may follow.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim and provide you with information on the coverage and benefits available to you. Be prepared to provide them with the details of the incident, including the police report and any supporting evidence you may have collected.
Legal Considerations in Hit and Run Cases
Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be challenging, especially when it comes to seeking compensation for damages and injuries. Here are some legal considerations you should be aware of:
Statute of Limitations
Each state has a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit. It is essential to be aware of the deadline in your jurisdiction and take prompt action to protect your rights. Consulting with an attorney with experience in hit-and-run accidents can help ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified or has no insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage may come into play. This coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault party is uninsured or cannot be identified. A car accident attorney can help with the process of filing a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage.
Gathering Evidence
Proving fault in a hit-and-run case can be challenging, especially if there are no eyewitnesses or the driver cannot be located. However, every piece of evidence you gather can make a difference in building a solid case. To establish liability, your car accident lawyer can help you collect and analyze evidence, such as surveillance footage, accident reconstruction reports, and expert testimonies.
Insurance Negotiations
Dealing with insurance companies can be complex, especially in hit-and-run cases. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or shift some of the blame onto you. Having an experienced attorney by your side can level the playing field and ensure your rights are protected during the negotiation process.
Seeking Compensation
You may be entitled to compensation if you have suffered injuries or property damage in a hit-and-run accident. Damages may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. An attorney experienced in hit-and-run accidents can help assess the full extent of your losses and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Key Takeaways
Why Do Hit and Run Accidents Happen
Hit-and-run accidents are unfortunate incidents that occur when a driver involved in a car accident flees the scene without stopping to identify themselves or provide assistance. These accidents can happen for various reasons, and understanding the motivations behind hit-and-run incidents can give insight into the complexities of these cases. Here are some common reasons why hit-and-run accidents happen:
- Fear and panic: In some situations, drivers may flee the scene of an accident out of fear or panic. They may not know how to handle the situation or may be worried about the potential consequences of staying at the scene. Fear of being arrested for DUI, driving without a valid license, or possessing illegal substances may lead drivers to make the irrational decision to escape the scene.
- Lack of insurance: Uninsured drivers may choose to flee the scene of an accident to avoid facing legal and financial consequences. Being involved in an accident without insurance can result in significant financial liability, including potential lawsuits and damage claims. By fleeing the scene, uninsured drivers may believe they can evade these consequences.
- Criminal activity: In some cases, hit-and-run accidents are connected to criminal activities such as stolen vehicles or illegal street racing. Individuals involved in such activities may flee the scene of an accident to avoid being caught or identified by law enforcement.
- Intoxication or drug impairment: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be more likely to flee the scene of an accident due to impaired judgment and fear of legal repercussions. Intoxicated or drug-impaired individuals may prioritize avoiding arrest over taking responsibility for their actions.
- License and registration issues: Drivers with suspended or revoked licenses, expired registration, or outstanding warrants may be more inclined to flee the scene of an accident to avoid being detected by law enforcement. They may believe that fleeing the scene will give them the best chance of avoiding further legal trouble.
- Inexperience or reckless driving: Sometimes, hit-and-run accidents occur due to inexperienced or reckless drivers. These individuals may not fully understand the consequences of their actions or may lack the necessary skills to handle a collision. Instead of taking responsibility, they choose to flee the scene, hoping to avoid negative consequences.
Understanding why hit-and-run accidents happen can help injury victims and their families in these cases. Victims can pursue justice and compensation for their damages and injuries by working with a reputable car accident lawyer. An attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.
What if There is a Criminal Case?
If the individual who caused your hit-and-run accident can be found, they will likely face criminal charges. While this is an integral part of the criminal justice system, it won’t end with compensation for your injuries and damages. Whether there is a criminal case or not, you still have the right to file a civil case seeking full financial recovery for your damages. Criminal and civil cases run separately and independently from one another. However, a conviction of criminal charges can help boost the success of your civil case.
Common Injuries in Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims with a wide range of injuries. The severity of these injuries can vary depending on various factors, such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the angle of the collision, and the use of safety restraints. Here are some of the most common injuries that can occur in hit-and-run accidents:
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents, including hit-and-run accidents. It occurs when the force of impact causes the head to jerk back and forth rapidly, straining the soft tissues in the neck. Symptoms of whiplash can range from mild to severe and may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.
Back Injuries
The impact of a hit-and-run accident can cause significant trauma to the back, resulting in various injuries. These injuries can include herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and sprains. Back injuries can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and other long-term complications.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are a common occurrence in hit-and-run accidents, especially when victims are not wearing helmets or seat belts. These injuries can range from minor concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Signs of a head injury may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and changes in mood or behavior.
Broken Bones
The impact of a hit-and-run accident can cause bones to fracture, especially in vulnerable areas such as the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Fractured bones can be extremely painful and may require surgical intervention for proper healing.
Cuts and Bruises
In a hit-and-run accident, victims can sustain cuts, scrapes, and bruises from the force of impact or from being ejected from the vehicle. These injuries may seem minor compared to other, more severe injuries, but they can still cause pain and require medical attention.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are not always immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated. The force of impact in a hit-and-run accident can cause damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs. Symptoms of internal injuries may include abdominal pain, swelling, difficulty breathing, and nausea.
Psychological Trauma
In addition to physical injuries, hit-and-run accidents can also cause significant psychological trauma. Victims may experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. Psychological trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s daily life and may require therapy or counseling for recovery.
Be sure to seek medical attention immediately after a hit-and-run accident, even if you do not think you have suffered a severe injury. Remember that some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately, and a delay in medical treatment can worsen your condition. In addition, seeking medical care establishes a link between the hit-and-run accident and your injuries.
Were You in a Hit and Run Accident? Contact a Seasoned Car Accident Lawyer Today
In all states, it’s illegal to simply leave the scene of an accident that has caused physical injury or property damage. In most cases, a motorist must stop their car to ascertain if these things have occurred. Sadly, hit-and-run accidents are on the rise, making it challenging for injured victims to recover the compensation they deserve.
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can leave you unsure what to do next. However, taking immediate action and seeking the guidance of a seasoned car accident attorney can make a significant difference in your case. By gathering the necessary information, reporting the incident to the police, and contacting your insurance company, you are taking valuable steps to protect your rights and increase the chances of a successful resolution.
Your attorney will manage your hit-and-run case, ensuring you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Remember, you don’t have to face this challenging situation alone. Contact a car accident attorney near you for assistance and guidance through the often-confusing legal process
Overall, a free consultation with an injury attorney is a valuable opportunity to receive experienced advice, gain clarity on your legal options, and determine the most effective strategy to pursue the compensation you deserve. It is a very important first step in your journey towards justice and recovery.
