How to Seek Compensation After a Hit and Run
Hit-and-run accidents are those where someone involved in the crash leaves the scene of the collision before properly attending to their responsibilities under the law. In other words, a hit-and-run driver is someone who flees the scene such that anyone injured does not have adequate information about who was involved in the accident. Personal injuries that occur in hit-and-run accidents are often among the most devastating since it can be difficult, or even impossible, to hold the at-fault party accountable. In recent years, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the rate of hit-and-run collisions has increased, and more than 2,000 people are killed annually in these accidents.
If you were involved in a hit-and-run crash, what are your options for seeking compensation? Our Macon hit and run injury lawyers can tell you more, and we can speak with you today about the specific facts of your case.
File an Insurance Claim
Many hit-and-run crashes occur without the injured person ever learning who caused their harm. To be sure, although it can be difficult to think about, hit-and-run drivers are not always caught, and injury victims need to learn about options for obtaining compensation even if they do not know the identity of the hit-and-run motorist. One common option for seeking compensation is an insurance claim.
Depending on the facts of your case and the type of insurance you carry, you might have a couple of insurance options. You may be able to file a first-party claim through your own auto insurance, or you may be able to file an uninsured motorist (UM) claim if you carry uninsured motorist coverage. You may be able to obtain compensation through these types of insurance claims regardless of whether you know the identity of the at-fault driver.
Tracking Down the Driver to File an Insurance Claim or Lawsuit
It may be possible to track down the hit-and-run driver who caused your injuries. If law enforcement officials are able to identify the hit-and-run driver, you may be able to file a third-party insurance claim through the at-fault driver’s insurance, and you may be able to file a civil lawsuit against that driver.
Determining Other Routes of Liability
If you cannot identify the hit-and-run driver, another party may still be liable for your injuries, and you may be able to name that party (or parties) in a lawsuit. A lawyer can assess your case and help you to determine who may be liable in the crash where you got hurt.
Contact Our Macon Hit and Run Attorneys Today for Help
Nobody expects to be injured in a motor vehicle collision, and a hit-and-run collision in particular. These types of crashes can be devastating, not only due to physical injuries and property damages but as a result of the complications in holding the at-fault driver accountable. It is important to know that you do have options, and that an experienced Macon hit and run lawyer at the Law Offices of Buzzell, Welsh & Hill can help you. From seeking compensation by filing an auto insurance claim to considering options for a lawsuit, our firm is here to assist you and to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Sources:
aaafoundation.org/hit-and-run-crashes-prevalence-contributing-factors-and-countermeasures/
oci.georgia.gov/insurance-resources/auto
