Compensation for Hit and Run Victims

Unfortunately, hit and run accidents occur every day. Many of these car crashes result in serious injury. As a Georgia injury attorney, a common question people frequently ask me is if they are able to obtain compensation for injuries when they are involved in a hit and run crash. The answer can depend on several things.
A hit and run collision means the driver leaves the scene after causing an accident. If you are involved in an auto accident and someone gets hurt, you are legally obligated to stop and make sure that person receives medical treatment. You must also exchange personal and insurance information with the other driver. There are serious consequences for causing hit and run accidents. In fact, it is a felony to leave the scene if another person involved in the crash is badly injured or killed.

If you are the victim of a hit and run accident, you need to call 911 immediately. The sooner the police are notified, the sooner they can begin an investigation to try and find the driver of the other vehicle. As soon as you can, write down any identifying details you remember from the accident. This should include the make and model of the other car, a license plate number if you happened to see it, and what the driver looked like. Record any details that will help authorities identify the other car or the driver.

Even with a police investigation it can be difficult to track down a hit and run driver. But even if the other driver is never located you may still be able to pursue an injury claim. If the at-fault driver is never found, it will be impossible to make a claim on his or her insurance policy. However, if you have the right kind of insurance, you can still be compensated for your injuries. Uninsured motorist coverage is some of the most important coverage you can buy. If you are involved in a hit and run, or an accident with a known driver who just isn't insured, your uninsured motorist policy can cover your damages.

It is estimated that 11% of accidents in the U.S. are hit and runs. In order to protect yourself, it is important that you carry uninsured motorist coverage on your own insurance policy. Even though an uninsured motorist claim involves your own policy, it can still be difficult to get the insurance company to pay adequate compensation for your injuries. If you were involved in a hit and run accident, call a personal injury attorney who is well experienced in uninsured motorist claims so you can make the most out of your settlement.