Traffic crashes where a driver hits someone and leaves the scene are a significant public safety issue in Greenville County.
If you or a loved one has been hit and suffered injuries from a hit-and-run accident in Greenville, you should act immediately –first, to seek medical attention and second, to seek compensation.
The claims process can be quite stressful, especially when you don’t know where to start.
Consult with a Greenville car accident attorney to advise you how to move forward after a driver flees the scene of your crash. Contact us to learn about the compensation you may be entitled to and how to maximize your potential settlement.
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Why Do Hit-and-Run Drivers Flee the Scene?
A hit-and-run is any accident where the at-fault driver flees the accident scene before identifying themselves or offering help to the affected person. Leaving the accident scene before doing any of these is considered a criminal offense.
There are varied reasons why a hit-and-run driver would leave an accident scene without proper identification or offering aid to the affected parties. The common reasons include the following:
- The driver did not have a license, or it was suspended
- Driving under the influence
- Driver fearing to lose license because of past citations
- Carrying illegal goods
- Driving a stolen or borrowed car
How Do You Get Compensation for a Hit-and-Run?
When a driver flees the accident scene after hitting and injuring you, it is natural to get outraged and shocked. Regardless, acting swiftly to increase your chances of getting your deserved compensation is advisable.
You can consider various options to obtain compensation from your insurance company following a hit-and-run accident.
- First, where you have collision insurance, you can file a claim for your car rental fees, vehicle repairs, or any other damages.
- Second, in the case of the medical option, you will be required to claim medical expenses compensation irrespective of who was to blame for the accident.
- Lastly, you may have uninsured motorist coverage. In that case, you can seek compensation by filing a personal injury claim against it, especially where the perpetrator is not identified, or the at-fault driver who stayed behind does not have insurance coverage.
Whichever option you consider, it is advisable to engage a reliable car accident attorney in Greenville, SC. This is especially important where the accident leaves you with huge expenses, either medical or in terms of car or property damage. In most cases, insurance companies tend to be cunning to avoid paying huge compensation.
How Are Hit-and-Run Investigations Conducted?
Hit-and-run accidents fall under criminal cases, hence the tendency for official investigations. If you are the victim, law enforcement officials hunt down the at-fault driver, and if they are caught, it increases your chances of compensation for any losses or injuries you suffered.
Here are some possible steps taken in a hit-and-run investigation:
1. Police report filed
Law enforcement officers are the first point of contact for a car accident investigation. Usually, you should notify the police immediately after a hit-and-run accident. Call 911 and ensure you provide enough information about the accident to aid in the investigation.
2. Gathering of evidence
The second step in any hit-and-run accident investigation process is gathering evidence. If you are to collect evidence for your case, it is advisable to maintain maximum safety to avoid risking any harm.
Usually, the investigation requires as many pictures of the accident scene as possible immediately after the crash. These photos help identify the vehicles and parties involved and give insights into the possible individual at fault.
3. Eyewitnesses’ account
Witnesses play a significant role in any hit-and-run accident investigation, especially where you remained trapped in your vehicle or unconscious following the incident. Whereas it is not guaranteed that the witnesses will provide enough information, whatever they provide is enough to start an investigation.
You can also help if you are physically able with collecting statements from the eyewitnesses before the law enforcement officers arrive. Ensure also to collect their contact information as your lawyer, insurance company, and the police need to get their statements later.
4. Filing an insurance claim or lawsuit
Where the at-fault driver is found, a lawsuit will help you get compensated for the losses and injuries they caused. Alternatively, you could file an insurance claim to seek compensation from your insurance provider.
Compensation Available for Hit and Run Victims
Whether or not a hit-and-run driver is found after your accident, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is your best bet. They will guide you accordingly to guarantee maximum compensation from whoever’s insurance company must contribute to your recovery.
If you or your loved one is involved in a hit-and-run accident, you will often need to seek the following compensation:
- Lost wages
- Attorney fees
- Travel expenses for medical providers
- Medical expenses
- Emergency expenses
A Greenville Car Accident Attorney Can Help with Your Hit and Run Case
Getting injured in a hit-and-run accident can leave you with a lot of questions. Make sure you have the right guidance.
If you or a loved one was injured in a hit-and-run accident, contact Upstate Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC. Our team will do everything in our capabilities to locate the perpetrator and also negotiate maximum compensation with your insurance company. Contact us to get started.
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No upfront costs to you or your family. We recover maximum compensation for our clients.
