How to Pursue Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Car Accident

 Posted on August 16, 2022 in Car Accident

Everyone knows that the right thing to do in the event of a car accident is to stop and share contact information with the other driver. Not only is this the ethical thing to do but it is also required by law. When a motorist is involved in a collision, he or she must stop his or her vehicle. Failure to stop is considered a “hit-and-run,” and leaving the scene of an accident is a crime in the state of Texas.

If you were involved in a hit-and-run, you may have suffered severe injuries for which you incurred significant medical costs in addition to your property damage. You may also be unable to work due to your injuries. You may wonder whether or not you can pursue compensation for these losses through a personal injury claim. Successfully obtaining compensation for a hit-and-run accident can be a challenging process, but it is possible.

Your First Steps

One of the most crucial steps to take after being involved in a hit-and-run accident is to call the police and get a police report. A police report that describes the details of the accident is an essential element in a personal injury claim and an insurance claim. Furthermore, the sooner you contact the police, the more likely it is that the police will be able to catch the person who hit you. Next, gather information about the accident.

If you are not too injured to do so, take photos of the damage to your vehicle and the accident scene. Get contact information from witnesses, as their testimony may serve as valuable evidence in your lawsuit. Lastly, do not make the mistake of underestimating your injuries. Injuries such as traumatic brain injuries or even whiplash might not be immediately noticeable due to adrenaline. You will also need medical records that detail your injuries in order to get compensation for medical expenses. Keep any medical bills and medical records such as discharge paperwork that you receive as well.

Identifying the Responsible Party in a Hit-and-Run Accident

If police are able to catch the driver who fled the scene of the accident, you may be able to bring a successful personal injury claim against him or her. However, if the responsible motorist cannot be located, or if the hit-and-run driver is found but does not have sufficient assets or insurance, you may still be able to file a claim for compensation. In this situation, you may be pursuing a claim against your own insurance carrier. You could be compensated for the damage to your vehicle, your medical expenses, lost income due to missed work, pain and suffering, and more.

Unfortunately, collecting compensation for injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident is rarely easy, even if you file your claim with your own insurance company. You may be a “valued customer,” but your carrier is still in the business of making money, which only happens if it brings in far more premiums than it pays out in claims. As a result, insurance companies routinely employ delay tactics and attempt to dispute liability and minimize damages. With all of this in mind, it is important to have a qualified attorney at your side.

Contact a Collin County Hit-and-Run Crash Lawyer

If you or a loved one have been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you deserve compensation for your losses. Contact an experienced McKinney car wreck attorney for help with getting started on your claim today. Call our office at 214-726-0016 for a free, no-obligation initial consultation with Burress Injury Law. We will work hard to get you full justice under the law.

Sources:

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/auto-and-vehicles/what-to-do-after-a-hit-and-run

https://www.insurance.com/auto-insurance/auto-insurance-basics/hit-and-run-insurance.html