Nobody expects to suffer a traffic accident, but if it happens to you, the least you expect is that the other driver stops and takes responsibility. However, in some cases, the at-fault driver decides to flee the scene, leaving you alone with the damage and injuries. What can you do in this situation? How can you claim compensation for your losses?
In this article we explain what to do if you are hit and the driver flees in the United States, what rights you have as a victim, and how you can protect your interests.
If you need legal advice in any injury case, remember that you can contact our Conexión Legal team at 1866 701 1220, or write to our WhatsApp to receive free legal advice, whatever legal problem you are facing.
Know Your Labor Rights in the United States
What to do after a hit-and-run accident
A hit-and-run accident is one in which the driver who causes the accident leaves the scene without stopping to provide assistance or exchange information with the other party.
Do you want to evaluate your case?
Contact us as soon as possible. We serve 24/7 and evaluate your case for free with a Spanish-speaking attorney. This is considered a crime in all states of the United States and can result in criminal and civil penalties.
If you are hit and the driver flees, you should follow these steps to protect your safety and your right to compensation:
- Call the police: report the accident and request an ambulance if there are injuries. The police should file a report of the facts and try to identify the fleeing driver. This report will be key to your insurance claim or legal lawsuit.
- Look for witnesses: if there are people who witnessed the accident, ask for their contact information and their testimony about what happened. Witnesses can provide valuable information about the other vehicle or driver.
- Take photos: document the accident with photos of the scene, damage, injuries, license plates, traffic lights, signs, and any other relevant elements.
- Seek medical attention: even if you don't feel pain or don't see visible injuries, it is important that a medical professional evaluate you as soon as possible. Some injuries may take time to manifest or worsen over time. Also, you will need a medical report to support your claim.
- Notify your insurance company: inform your insurer about the accident and cooperate with the assigned adjuster. However, do not sign anything or accept any offer without consulting with an attorney first.
Can you sue for workplace harassment in the United States?
What rights you have as a hit-and-run victim
As a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you have the right to receive compensation for the damages and losses you suffered as a result of the accident. These may include:
- Medical expenses: cover the cost of medical treatment necessary to recover from your injuries, both present and future.
- Property damage: covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle or other objects damaged by the accident.
- Loss of income: covers the money you lost by not being able to work due to your injuries or medical treatment.
- Pain and suffering: covers the emotional and physical impact the accident had on your quality of life, such as stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, or disability.
The way to obtain this compensation will depend on whether the fleeing driver is identified or not. If the fleeing driver is identified, you can file a claim against his insurance company or file a civil lawsuit against him. In some states, you can also request punitive damages, which are an additional penalty to punish his irresponsible conduct.
If the fleeing driver is not identified, you can resort to your own insurance policy if you have coverage for uninsured or underinsured drivers (UM/UIM). This coverage protects you when the other driver has no insurance or has insufficient insurance to cover your damages.
How to protect your interests after a hit-and-run accident
After a hit-and-run accident, you may feel confused, frustrated, and helpless. However, do not lose hope or give up your rights. There are some actions you can take to protect your interests and increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation: Hire an attorney: an attorney experienced in traffic accidents can help you investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, file a lawsuit if necessary, and defend your case in court. An attorney can make the difference between receiving an insufficient offer or adequate compensation. Keep all evidence: preserve all evidence that can support your claim, such as the police report, witness testimony, accident photos, medical reports, invoices, receipts, and income documentation.
Call now
Do not admit fault or minimize your injuries: after the accident, you may be contacted by insurance companies or the other driver's attorneys. Do not make any statement that could harm your case or accept any offer without consulting your attorney. Also do not hide or ignore your injuries, as this may affect your recovery and your claim.
A hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic and challenging experience, but you don't have to face it alone. If you are hit and the driver flees in the United States, count on the support of an attorney who will guide and represent you throughout the entire process. This way you can focus on your health and well-being, while he takes care of defending your rights and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
What is an accident attorney? 5 cases where they may be necessary
If you need legal advice in any injury case, remember that you can contact our Conexión Legal team at 1866 701 1220, or write to our WhatsApp to receive free legal advice, whatever legal problem you are facing.
Follow the steps in the following form to schedule your free consultation appointment.
