The Driver Who Hit Me Didn’t Stop. What Can I Do In A Hit-And-Run Scenario?

May 28, 2024

It’s a scenario no one ever wants to find themselves in: you’re involved in an accident, and the other driver speeds off, leaving you with questions, potential injuries, and possibly significant vehicle damage. Known as a hit-and-run, this situation is unfortunately more common than we’d like. If you’re in Florida or Georgia and find yourself the victim of such an incident, here’s what you need to know and do, step by step.

Immediate Actions Post-Hit-and-Run

In the unsettling moments following a hit-and-run, your actions can significantly impact the safety of everyone involved and the strength of your future claim. Prioritize the following steps to navigate the situation effectively:

  • Ensure Safety: First, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
  • Check for Injuries: The well-being of you and your passengers is the utmost priority. Perform a quick assessment for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to document them and seek medical attention. Shock can often mask pain initially.
  • Call 911: Reporting the incident immediately is vital. Inform the dispatcher if medical assistance is needed. Police documentation of the scene is a foundational piece of evidence for hit-and-run cases.
  • Gather Evidence: Collect as much information as possible. This includes:
    • Photos of the Scene: Capture different angles of the damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any other relevant details.
    • Vehicle Details: Any information about the fleeing vehicle, no matter how minor it seems, can aid in locating the driver. This includes partial license plate numbers, vehicle color, make, model, and any distinctive features.
    • Environmental Details: Note the accident’s exact time, location, and weather conditions, as these can influence the case.
  • Look for Witnesses: Eyewitnesses can provide objective accounts of the accident, which may help identify the hit-and-run driver and establish the events leading up to the incident. Collect names, phone numbers, and addresses.
  • Report the Incident: Besides calling the police, notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run as soon as possible. Most insurers require prompt reporting of accidents for coverage purposes.
  • Seek Legal Advice: Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in hit-and-run cases. They can guide you through the legal process, help with the insurance claim, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Understanding Your Coverage and Reporting to Insurance

After taking care of immediate concerns, the next step is dealing with insurance:

  • Know your policy: In Florida and Georgia, uninsured motorist coverage can be a lifesaver in hit-and-run scenarios. This coverage may help with your medical expenses, lost wages, and even pain and suffering, depending on your policy.
  • File a claim: Notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run as soon as you can. Provide them with all collected evidence and the police report number.

Understanding Comparative Negligence

Comparative negligence, also referred to as comparative fault, is a principle in law that distributes fault among all parties involved in an accident. This principle impacts the compensation an injured party can receive by decreasing it according to their own fault in causing the incident.

How It Works in Florida and Georgia

In both Florida and Georgia, this legal framework is employed to adjust a claimant’s compensation based on their level of responsibility in the accident. For example, being deemed 30% at fault for your injuries means your potential compensation will be lessened by 30%. Notably, if your share of fault is 50% or higher, you are ineligible to receive any compensation under this rule.

Seek Legal Assistance

The aftermath of a hit-and-run can be complex and overwhelming. Legal guidance can be incredibly beneficial in:

  • Understanding your rights: A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and the intricacies of pursuing compensation in hit-and-run cases.
  • Dealing with insurance companies: Lawyers are adept at negotiating with insurance companies, ensuring you receive fair treatment and compensation.
  • Exploring all avenues: In some cases, additional options for compensation might be available, which only a knowledgeable attorney can advise you on.

The Leach Firm, P.A. Is Here to Help

At The Leach Firm, P.A., we understand the stress and frustration that come with being a hit-and-run victim. With over 100 years of combined experience serving Florida and Georgia, we are committed to supporting our clients through challenging times. We handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on recovery.

If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Call The Leach Firm, P.A. at 844-722-7567 or online for a free case evaluation. Let our seasoned lawyers in Florida and Georgia fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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