Were you injured in a hit-and-run accident? If so, it's likely that you'll need help paying for your medical bills, covering your missed wages, and perhaps even paying for any pain and suffering you've experienced. Successfully filing a personal injury claim after a hit and run can help ensure that you receive the damages needed while you recover. It's possible to file a claim even if the driver fled the scene in a hit-and-run accident.
What You Should Do After a Hit and Run
If your car was hit by another driver and the other motorist flees the scene, the accident is considered a hit and run. After any auto crash, both drivers have a responsibility to stay at the crash scene. If the other driver tries to leave, do not try to chase down the car. It's always safer to call the police or even 9-1-1 if you need immediate medical attention. By speaking with the police, you will open a police report and start the process of filing a personal injury claim after a hit and run.
While waiting for the police to arrive, make note of any identifying features of the car or other driver if possible. Good information to know would be the car's make and color and any numbers or letters on the license plate. You should also see if anyone witnessed the crash and would be willing to exchange contact information to give testimony in a future personal injury claim.
Whose Insurance Do You Use After a Hit and Run?
You're likely wondering who will pay for your car repairs or medical bills if you were injured in a hit-and-run accident. Fortunately, if you live in one of the following states, you can easily file a claim with your own insurance company:
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Dakota
- Pennsylvania
- Utah
The above states follow no-fault insurance when it comes to auto accidents. Your insurance company will pay for a portion (or all) of your auto repairs and medical bills after a hit and run, regardless of who was responsible for the auto crash.
If you do not live in a state that has no-fault insurance, you still have ways of receiving compensation. The first way to reach a settlement is through Uninsured Motorist Coverage through your own auto insurance provider. Uninsured Motorist Coverage protects you if you were hit by someone without auto insurance, but can also be used when you do not know the motorist that damaged your car.
You can also utilize your own policy's Personal Injury Protection (PIP). When you file a claim through PIP, you'll only be able to receive compensation for your medical bills. You will not be entitled to any compensation for damages to your vehicle or any pain and suffering you may have experienced. Filing for PIP might increase your monthly insurance premiums.
Speak With a Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, one of your best resources could be a personal injury attorney. PI lawyers can help you navigate through your different insurance options, giving you a better chance of receiving a fair settlement. To speak with a personal injury attorney specializing in auto accidents, please fill out our Free Evaluation above.
