If you or a loved one was the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you could be suffering major injuries and property damage. Even though you may not know who hit you, you could still be able to pursue compensation.
To discuss your case with a Warner Robins hit-and-run accident lawyer, call us today at (404) 888-8888. A team member with Bader Scott Injury Lawyers can walk you through the legal process during a free consultation. Call today to learn more.
Filing a Claim After a Hit-and-Run
Victims of hit-and-run accidents can still seek compensation for their losses. If you face medical bills, property damage, or other losses after an accident, it may be possible to pursue a claim.
If the police are able to locate the person who hit you after they left the scene of the accident, you may be able to seek compensation through the offending party. However, in situations where the driver is not identified, you could have to pursue the uninsured motorist coverage through your own insurance policy. Uninsured motorist coverage is meant to provide you a way to seek recovery when you are hit by someone who lacks insurance. However, it can be used in hit-and-run accident situations as well.
Every case is different, however, and insurance settlements can be complicated. Sometimes, insurance companies will offer you a settlement value that seems lower than you deserve. You can speak with a lawyer who can help you determine your next steps. A lawyer can even manage your case, including the communication and negotiation process with the insurance company.
If the driver in your accident was identified and your case is eligible for a personal injury suit, keep in mind that you have a limited amount of time to file a claim. In the state of Georgia, you have up to two years to begin the process, according to Georgia Code (O.C.G.A.) §9-3-33.
For a free legal consultation with a hit-and-run accidents lawyer serving Warner Robins, call (404) 888-8888
Why Perpetrators Flee the Scene
Hit-and-run accidents can be devastating situations. Fleeing the scene of an accident is not only illegal – it is very dangerous, too. Victims of accidents might need immediate medical help, and if the other party has left, this could delay the response of emergency personnel.
There are many reasons why another party may have fled following an accident, including but not limited to:
- Alcohol Use: Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or other substances at the time of an accident could be at an increased risk of fleeing a scene. This could be because alcohol use impairs cognitive ability, which can not only result in a higher likelihood of an accident but can also lead to poor judgment in the aftermath of an accident. Because driving under the influence is illegal, it is also possible that a responsible party flees a scene to avoid potential legal implications.
- Stolen Vehicles: Sometimes, perpetrators driving a stolen vehicle are involved in accidents, which can result in hit-and-run situations.
- Invalid License Plates: Driving with invalid license plates may be a factor that increases the risk of hit-and-run accidents.
- Criminal History: Hit-and-run perpetrators may also choose to leave the scene of an accident to avoid outstanding criminal records. By being implicated in an accident, responsible parties might fear that they will be arrested for unrelated crimes, and therefore choose to flee in an attempt to avoid facing legal action.
If a driver committed a hit-and-run accident for these or any other reasons, they could be subject to a number of fines and penalties, including criminal charges. If the police are able to find the person responsible for hitting you, they could face serious consequences. Your lawyer can explain more about how you may be able to pursue justice and compensation after a hit-and-run.
A Warner Robins hit-and-run accident lawyer from Bader Scott Injury Lawyers is available to discuss your case free of charge. Call (404) 888-8888 today to speak with a team member for more information on how to move forward.
Warner Robins Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Near Me (404) 888-8888
Ways Your Life Could Be Changed
If you were the victim of a hit-and-run accident, your life could be changed in both the short and long term. Victims could experience physical, emotional, and financial losses.
Physically, you could experience a wide range of injuries that can be minor or severe. Minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and bruises can all require medical attention and take time to heal. More serious injuries like broken bones, concussions, and permanently disabling injuries can be even more serious and require advanced care. In some cases, you could lose your ability to work or go about your daily life as you know it. This can lead to expensive medical bills and ongoing treatment, too.
Even if you feel fine at the scene of an accident, you could still be injured. It is important to seek medical attention following an accident of any kind.
Sometimes hit-and-run accidents also take an emotional toll on victims. If you are experiencing sleeplessness, anxiety, depression, or PTSD in the aftermath of your accident, it could have been caused by the trauma of a hit-and-run. These invisible losses can be considered by your lawyer as they calculate your case value.
Hit and run accidents can often cause property loss, along with medical bills and other unforeseen expenses. While you could be feeling overwhelmed following your accident, remember that help is around the corner. You could even be eligible to seek financial compensation.
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Take Action Today
Hit-and-run accidents can leave a major impact on your life and the life of your loved ones. In the aftermath of a confusing accident like this, a lawyer can be with you through every step of your case.
A Warner Robins hit-and-run accident lawyer from Bader Scott Injury Lawyers can help you better understand the appropriate next steps. Call (404) 888-8888 today to schedule a free consultation.
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