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Being in a car accident is a scary and traumatic experience, but it can be even more frustrating and overwhelming when the other driver flees the scene. Whether you were hit as a pedestrian, on a bicycle, or while driving your own car, a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of how to proceed.
The good news is that you may still have options for collecting damages and recovering financially from the accident. Here are some steps you can take to pursue compensation after a hit-and-run:
File a Police Report
The first thing you should do after being involved in a hit-and-run accident is to call the police and file a report. Provide as much detail as possible, including the make and model of the other vehicle, the license plate number (if you were able to see it), and any other identifying characteristics of the driver.
Having a police report on file can be important if you need to make an insurance claim or pursue legal action later on. It can also help the authorities track down the driver responsible for the accident.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Even if the other driver is never identified, you may still be able to collect damages through your own insurance company. Depending on your coverage (e.g., Uninsured Motorist Coverage), you may be able to file a claim for medical expenses, property damage, and other costs related to the accident.
Be sure to review your insurance policy carefully and contact your insurer as soon as possible after the accident. They may require you to provide documentation of the accident and your injuries, as well as other information related to your claim.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were seriously injured in the accident or if your insurance claim is denied, you may want to consider hiring a personal injury lawyer to help you pursue damages. An experienced attorney can review the details of your case, help you understand your legal options, and advise you on the best course of action.
They can also help you negotiate with insurance companies or file a lawsuit if necessary. Keep in mind that there may be time limits for pursuing legal action, so it's important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.
Explore Other Avenues for Compensation
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, there may be other sources of compensation available to you. For example, if you were hit while walking or biking, you may be able to collect damages from your own car insurance policy or from a pedestrian or bicycle accident liability policy.
You may also be eligible for compensation through a crime victim's assistance program or other government benefits. Again, it's important to consult with a personal injury lawyer or other expert in this area to explore all of your options.
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident can be frustrating and stressful, but it's important to remember that you may still have options for collecting damages and recovering financially. By taking the steps outlined above and seeking expert legal advice, you can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Fill out our form online or call Witherington Injury Law today at (615) 697-6503 for a free consultation.