Hit And Run Lawyer: Guide to Your Legal Options (2024)

A hit and run accident can leave you injured and overwhelmed. The sudden disappearance of the responsible driver makes it difficult to know your options, and you may not know where to turn for help. Physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens can be daunting, so it is important to understand your legal rights.

In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know after experiencing a hit and run accident. We’ll also cover how a hit and run lawyer can help you seek fair compensation.

Hit and Run Accident Defined

A “hit and run” accident occurs when an involved driver leaves the scene without stopping or providing aid to others injured in the accident. The accident could involve other vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, or property damage.

Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal in all states, and leaving when others are injured is a felony crime in many states.

Unfortunately, hit and run accidents can have serious consequences. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, one recent year saw nearly 3,000 fatalities involving hit and run drivers.

What Should I Do After a Hit and Run?

Being involved in an accident is stressful, and you may not know what to do if the other driver leaves abruptly. Taking these steps can help you protect your legal rights after a hit and run accident.

• Prioritize safety. If you are able, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further accidents or injuries.

• Contact the police. Report the accident to the police as soon as you can. Be sure to share any information about the fleeing driver and vehicle while it is still fresh in your mind.

• Seek medical care. It’s a good idea to see a medical professional after a car accident, even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured. Some car accident injuries may not be noticeable right away.

• Notify your insurance. Report the accident to your insurance right away to start a claim. If the fleeing driver cannot be located, you may still be able to gain compensation through your insurance.

• Document the scene. If you are able, take photos of where the accident occurred, your vehicle, and any injuries. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident occur.

• Keep records. Your medical bills, treatment records, and communications related to the accident may all be valuable later in a legal case.

• Consult a hit and run victim attorney. A qualified personal injury lawyer familiar with hit and run accidents can help you evaluate your options and seek compensation if the fleeing driver is identified. Fill out the form on this page to connect with a hit and run accident lawyer near you.

Determining Fault After a Hit and Run Accident

In a typical car accident lawsuit, compensation is often sought from the at-fault driver or their insurance provider. Things are more therefore more challenging when the responsible driver is unknown. Police may be able to apprehend the person responsible, so it is in your best interest to cooperate with their investigation and share any evidence you have gathered.

If the other driver cannot be identified, then you may still be able to receive compensation through your own insurance provider. This is why it is important to notify your insurer right away, even if you were not at fault for the car accident.

How Can a Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Help?

After a hit and run accident, you may feel shaken and unsure of the best path forward. A qualified lawyer can help you in several ways, including:

• Navigating insurance. If the other driver cannot be identified, you may be able to file an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance. A lawyer can help make sure you provide all necessary documentation to support your claim and maximize compensation.

• Filing a lawsuit. If the other driver is identified, then a lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. Compensation through a lawsuit can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

• Providing guidance. Throughout the process, your lawyer can provide legal advice and help you understand your rights.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a hit and run accident, don't hesitate to seek legal advice to protect your rights.

How Can I Find a Hit and Run Lawyer Near Me?

ConsumerShield takes the guesswork out of finding the best hit and run lawyer. We understand the role the legal system plays in recovering fair compensation for your injuries, and can connect you with a lawyer quickly to evaluate your case. Fill out the form on this page to get help today.