Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a deeply traumatic experience, leaving victims vulnerable to the actions of other road users, especially when serious injuries are sustained. In the event of an accident, the responsible motorist is legally obligated to stop, assess the damage caused, and provide assistance to the victims in seeking medical care for their injuries. Additionally, they are required to notify the police and file a police report. Unfortunately, not all motorists adhere to these rules. Fleeing the scene of an accident is not only a criminal offense but also exposes the driver to civil liability, making them susceptible to compensation claims.
Hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common in Galveston, involving motorists, cyclists, motorcycle riders, and even pedestrians, putting them at risk of becoming victims of such incidents. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, there are approximately 682,000 hit and run accidents every year in the U.S. Whether you have experienced a hit-and-run accident yourself or know someone who has, you are likely aware of the immense stress and challenges associated with this type of road crash. However, there is hope for seeking justice and compensation. A skilled Galveston hit-and-run accident lawyer can assist you in filing a claim against the responsible driver, or alternatively, utilizing your uninsured motorist policy to recover damages. Don’t hesitate to discuss your potential claim with an experienced car accident attorney today.
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a motorist collides with a pedestrian, motorcyclist, bicyclist, or another motorist, and immediately leaves the scene without providing aid or identification. Tragically, hit-and-run accidents can result in fatalities, particularly for pedestrians, while others, such as motorcyclists and bicyclists, may suffer severe injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal injuries. If you have been injured in a hit-and-run, it is crucial to promptly contact an attorney for assistance.
Drivers who flee the scene after causing an accident often do so because they are likely at fault for the incident. Their decision to leave indicates guilt, which may make proving liability less challenging. Drawing from our experience in handling similar cases, our Galveston accident lawyers have identified some common reasons why drivers tend to flee the scene:
Apart from the aforementioned causes, a driver may also flee from the scene due to confusion and fear. However, this shouldn’t deter you from seeking compensation for your injuries.
To win your case and recover monetary compensation, you will need to prove several things. Most importantly, you must establish liability. Even if you were partly at fault, you can still secure compensation. However, before filing your hit-and-run case, you need to consult with a seasoned local attorney. Some of the crucial steps you should take for maximizing your compensation include:
Proving that you were injured in the accident requires providing supporting evidence, such as medical and financial records. It’s important to note that what an average person might consider as proof may not be acceptable in court or to insurance representatives. A qualified attorney knows how to collect evidence that will strengthen your case.
If you are involved in a hit-and-run crash, it may take a long time to recover physically and emotionally. Balancing both medical treatment and the legal responsibilities can make it difficult for you to focus on your case. A seasoned attorney will help you meet legal deadlines, including adhering to the statute of limitations. Additionally, your lawyer will respond to communications from insurance companies in a timely and effective manner.
It’s no secret that you will incur both monetary and non-monetary losses after an accident. However, for individuals without proper legal understanding, calculating the value of their claims can be challenging. Moreover, they may end up overlooking some damages that could increase the overall value of their claim. A skilled attorney can accurately quantify your losses and arrive at a solid figure, which serves as the basis for negotiations. Additionally, you may be eligible for punitive damages if the driver who hit you is found to be at fault.
Hit-and-run accidents are very complex, particularly when insurance companies are involved. Insurance adjusters may attempt to dissuade you from filing a formal case in court to avoid accountability. If you’re not careful, you may end up forfeiting the monetary compensation you are entitled to. An attorney’s role is to aggressively negotiate a fair settlement with insurance companies before resorting to trial.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, and the responsible motorist is nowhere to be found, there’s no need to worry. Our Galveston hit-and-run accident lawyers can assist you in recovering compensation from your insurance company. To discuss your case further, call us today.
