If a person leaves the scene of a car crash, it is considered a “hit and run.” If you were injured in an accident and the driver fled the scene, you may be able to file an auto wreck claim against the negligent party, even if they are unknown. A knowledgeable car accident attorney could investigate your crash, attempt to track down the responsible party and help you get compensation for your damages. Speak with a Charlottesville hit and run lawyer today to learn more about how our firm could help with your case.
If the driver of the other vehicle is never located, a claim can be made against your own insurance company as an uninsured motorist claim. A suit can be filed against the unknown driver by naming him John Doe.
There are many reasons an individual may flee the scene of a car accident. If it is dark outside, drivers may not realize they hit something. In some cases, however, motorists know they hit a person but choose to leave anyway.
A person might flee the scene out of fear of the potential consequences. This is common if the driver is already in legal trouble or is under the influence of alcohol. Regardless of the reason for the hit and run, a Charlottesville attorney could help you hold the negligent driver liable.
If you have been injured in a hit and run, you should seek immediate medical attention. It is also important to give a statement to the police describing the accident. The police may be able to find the fleeing motorist.
The next crucial step is reaching out for legal assistance. An experienced lawyer in Charlottesville could help you recover evidence or find potential witnesses to support your hit and run case.
If the driver who caused an accident is never found, the injured party could receive money through uninsured motorist coverage. Although, if the driver can be identified, the injured party could attempt to settle with his or her insurance company.
If both parties cannot resolve the case through their insurance companies, a lawsuit may need to be filed. A skilled lawyer in the area could help you determine if filing a hit and run claim is the best decision for you.
In an auto wreck claim, injured parties may recover economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages a person may recover include:
If a driver was grossly negligent or intoxicated at the time of the crash, punitive damages may also be appropriate. A skilled hit and run driver in the area could help you identify what damages you may be eligible for.
Often, hit and run victims do not know what types of insurance coverage or monetary damages are available to them. If you have been in an accident, it can be difficult to deal with these complex legal issues on your own. You should not have to go through it alone.
The dedicated attorneys at The Warren Firm could work to get you the compensation you may need to recover from your injuries. Call our office today to speak with a Charlottesville hit and run accident lawyer about your case.
