Knowing your Rights in a Hit and Run Accident
Every year there are around 700,000 hit and run accidents across the US. That’s almost 15% of all the car accidents on any given year.
That statistic is so high, that if you’re involved in a car wreck, it’s pretty likely that the other person is going to flee the scene. This puts a lot of unnecessary pressure on you, the victim. So let’s break this thing down on what you can do, and what you should reasonably expect.
What to Do Immediately Following an Accident
There are two types of crashes: severe and not as severe. In the severe ones, there are likely injuries, and you may or may not be conscious. In those situations the best you can do is remain calm and wait for help to arrive.
In the less severe crashes there may still be injuries. But they aren’t quite as life threatening. Immediately following the wreck, observe as much as you possibly can. Make note of the make, model, and color of the vehicle that hit you. Try to memorize at least a portion of the license plate.
Doing so will greatly increase the chances that the other driver will be found, and held accountable.
What to Expect after a Hit and Run
After the hit and run accident, things will progress similar to an accident where the offending party stuck around; just without the other party.
You’ll want to file a police report right away. This helps to open the investigation and shows that you are taking this seriously.
Go to the hospital and get checked out right away. If you’re carrying the proper coverage on your vehicle, medical bills should be covered under uninsured motorist coverage.
Enlist the help of a personal injury lawyer.
Why a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Car crash lawyers are there to ensure that you aren’t walked all over by the insurance companies. It’s not about ambulance chasing; it’s about making sure that your rights are upheld and you receive compensation that fully meets your needs.
In most hit and run cases, the offending party is never caught. Even when they are caught, they likely aren’t carrying insurance. Suing them may not even do any good because they have no assets to pay for the damage they inflicted.
How would you navigate that if you didn’t have an attorney on your side? Would you know which avenues to pursue justice?
A personal injury lawyer is there to help you after an accident.
Let Herbert Law Group Help with your Hit and Run
That’s exactly what Herbert Law Group is all about.
We know the laws, what to do after a wreck, and how to talk to the insurance companies. We know what to say and how to prove that your claim is worth more than what they are trying to offer.
Give us a call at 214-414-3808, or fill out the contact form on our site to get your free conversation started.
Bonus: Look into carrying Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD). Most policies only cover medical bills and not damage to your vehicle. Talk it over with your insurance agent to see if it’s right for you.