What Are a Hit-and-Run Accidents?
Hit-and-run accidents are when the at-fault driver flees the accident scene after a collision without providing information or assisting the injured parties. In other cases, the accidents involve parked cars and property. Whenever the at-fault party leaves the accident scene without leaving their details, they risk severe civil and legal consequences.
If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident, strive to understand your legal rights and options. An Orange County personal injury attorney explains that what you do or fail to do after the incident can dramatically affect the case outcome when pursuing compensation for your damages. So, here are the legal steps you should take in such a situation.
Call the Police
After a hit-and-run accident, you’ll likely be confused and angry that the at-fault driver took off, leaving you to deal with the situation yourself. The good news is that you don’t have to endure the aftermath alone. A car accident lawyer in Orange County recommends that you remain calm and seek help from first-line responders.
Call 911 to inform the relevant authorities about the accident. A police report is one of the solid pillars you need to have to take legal action in pursuing compensation for the injuries. Provide as many details as possible about the accident and obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
Document the Accident Scene
Depending on the extent of your injuries and condition, record the accident scene by taking photos of your injuries, any debris on the road, the scene and surrounding area, and property damage. You could write details of the events you remember that led to the accident. It’s also crucial to exchange contact information with witnesses at the scene.
Their names, phone numbers, and testimony of the events before, during, and after the incident can help you build a strong case. For example, they could tell you what direction the at-fault driver took off or describe the driver’s appearance, car, or plate number. These small details could help the police and your personal injury lawyer in Orange County identify the other party.
Seek Medical Attention for Your Injuries
You may not have physical injuries after the accident, however, don’t overlook the importance of getting professional medical help. A car accident attorney in Orange County highlights that accident victims often sustain internal injuries that may not be apparent immediately but which later develop into more complicated conditions if not treated promptly.
In addition to ascertaining your health situation, the medical record is crucial for your personal injury claim. The doctor’s report, medical bill, and related expenses will strengthen your claim by demonstrating that you were injured and took the necessary precautions.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Next, get in touch with your insurance company representative and submit a claim. The company may help you recover medical expenses and damages to your vehicle, even if the police cannot identify the at-fault driver. Be truthful and accurate when providing details about the accident, as any discrepancies could hurt your claim.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Orange County
Hit-and-run accidents can be complex, with many legal nuances to navigate. A skilled car accident lawyer can investigate your case and guide you through the available legal options. Their expertise is valuable in the following crucial elements of your compensation claim:
- Collecting strong evidence to justify your claim
- Dealing with insurance companies on your behalf
- Negotiating a fair compensation amount for your injuries and property damage
- Filing a lawsuit if negotiations fail.
How Can I Pursue Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
It may seem impossible to pursue compensation after a hit-and-run accident if the at-fault party hasn’t been identified yet. Nonetheless, an experienced Orange County car accident lawyer can help you try out other legal options to protect your rights:
- Filing a claim through PIP: Personal injury protection is insurance coverage that exists to pay for medical costs and lost wages after a car accident. It may be beneficial in helping you cover the damages sustained in a hit-and-run accident.
- Pursuing an Uninsured Motorist Claim: Motorists should carry uninsured motorist coverage to obtain compensation for damages and injuries due to the negligence of an uninsured or unidentified driver.
- Filing a personal injury claim: If the driver responsible for the hit and run is found, your car accident attorney in Orange County can help you put up a personal injury claim against the driver’s insurance company for your medical expenses, lost wages, and related expenses.
- Lodge a personal injury lawsuit against the driver: If the hit-and-run driver is found but lacks sufficient insurance coverage, you could file a personal injury legal claim against them to obtain compensation for the damages and injuries sustained.
Depending on the case specifics, your Orange County car accident lawyer can evaluate the options available. Based on the options available, they can help you reduce the chances of being shortchanged by the insurance company while giving you room to focus on your healing and recovery.
A Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer Providing Legal Guidance After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Getting involved in a car accident can be scary, and it can get worse if the at-fault party flees the scene. You may be confused about the legal steps, but a skilled Orange County car accident lawyer can guide you through this difficult moment to protect your rights. You can still obtain compensation through other avenues even if the at-fault driver is not found.
However, the process is often complex, so the legal team at Gibson & Hughes, Attorneys at Law, is dedicated to helping car accident victims. Let us evaluate your case and provide representation to help you obtain your deserved compensation. Call us at 714-406-0998 to schedule a FREE consultation.
