Leaving the scene of a car accident is a criminal offense, and if someone is injured in the wreck and the other driver failed to stop, they can be subject to civil liability. When you are injured in a car accident where the other driver fled the scene, you might wonder about your options. It can be difficult to know what to do after a hit and run but an experienced car accident attorney could help.
Many people assume if they do not have the information of the driver who left, then they cannot recover damages for their losses. However, the police can still investigate the accident. If they are unable to locate the driver, many insurance policies have coverage for these circumstances. Talk to an Indianapolis hit and run accident lawyer about your options for financial compensation.
When a car accident happens, both drivers are legally required to stop and exchange information. Not only is it illegal to leave the scene of a crash, after a serious collision the other driver or their passengers could need medical assistance. Those who commit a hit and run could face criminal and civil consequences for their actions.
When a driver leaves the scene of a car accident, there is usually a reason. Maybe their license is expired, or they are not insured. They might just be worried about getting into a conflict. No matter what made them leave, they are still liable for their negligence. Some common reasons drivers flee the scene of a crash include:
After the crash, the injured part should try and take down the at-fault driver’s license plate number or the make and model of their vehicle. If possible, take photos or videos to support the case. These can help the police locate the driver. Those injured in the collision should contact an Indianapolis hit and run accident lawyer to discuss pursuing compensation for their injuries related to the crash.
Someone involved in a hit and run accident could sustain catastrophic injuries, especially when their medical care is delayed because the other driver left the scene of the crash. After a hit and run, the injured person can pursue financial compensation with the help of a personal injury lawyer, since the cost of medical care and lost income can quickly add up. A successful settlement or lawsuit could reimburse medical bills and lost wages, and compensate injured parties for their pain and suffering or emotional trauma related to the wreck.
In some hit and run cases, the other driver will not be identified. When this happens, the injured person can file a claim with their insurance. A hit and run accident lawyer in Indianapolis could explain what options are available for pursuing compensation.
When you are involved in a hit and run car accident, you might feel helpless about what to do next. Not knowing the identity of the person who hit you can be stressful and make it difficult to recover the compensation you need to cover medical bills and other losses related to the accident.
In the event the driver cannot be located, your insurance may cover the losses from the accident. An Indianapolis hit and run lawyer can advise you of your options and help you locate the driver. Contact us to schedule your free consultation.