312-300-2028
What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident to Increase Your Chances of Securing Compensation
Being involved in a car accident can be a terrifying experience, but it’s even worse when the person who hit you speeds away from the scene, leaving you to deal with the damage. Hit and runs happen for a variety of reasons, such as a driver operating a vehicle while impaired and trying to avoid a DUI or someone who has an active warrant trying to avoid arrest. No matter why someone runs from the scene of an accident, you need to know what your legal options are to hold the person accountable and ensure that you receive compensation for your damages.
Challenges of Hit and Run Accidents in Chicago
Hit and run accidents have some unique challenges. The most serious is that it can be incredibly difficult for officers to identify and apprehend the driver. If there isn’t any camera footage, investigators may be left with just a general idea of the color of the car and where it should have body damage based on the other vehicle. If the driver isn’t able to be identified, there is presumably no one to file a personal injury lawsuit against. While you may still be able to get compensation through other means, it does make it more difficult.
Even if you are able to identify the driver, you will still have to deal with aspects common to all car accidents, such as talking and negotiating with insurance companies and taking care of your finances while you wait for compensation. An attorney who has experience with hit and run accidents can prove to be an invaluable resource and support as you navigate this process.
What to Do After You’ve Been Injured in a Hit and Run
While it can be difficult to remember in the present moment when you’re in shock and potentially dealing with major injuries, one of the best things you can do after a hit and run accident is get pictures of the car, its license plate, or the driver itself. Your own memory can also provide valuable clues, but many people find that they have difficulty recalling details, such as the make and model of a vehicle, after an accident. If you weren’t able to get pictures, see if one of the houses or businesses nearby had security cameras or if any other drivers were able to get a license plate. The more information you can provide to the police, the greater your chances of the other driver being found.
Call the police so that they can come to take an accident report, document the condition of your vehicle, and investigate the scene to determine if there is any evidence that could lead to the identification of the other driver, such as a piece of the car left behind. Make sure to alert your insurance company as soon as you’re able so it can start an investigation as well.
Lastly, it’s always important to seek medical treatment after an accident, but even more so when it’s a hit and run. Even if you think you’re okay, it’s a good idea to go get checked out so that there is a record of your injuries in case other issues are discovered later on. This can also help provide evidence for a personal injury claim so you can recover compensation.
Legal Strategies to Get Compensation for Your Damages
If medical bills and lost income from missed work are causing financial issues, there are some legal strategies you can use to get compensation for your damages. If the driver is able to be found and is determined to be at fault for the accident, you may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit for your financial damages as well as pain and suffering.
If the driver is not able to be identified, you can typically recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage. In Illinois, drivers are required to have uninsured motorist coverage through their auto insurance policy. If you aren’t sure what type of insurance you have or if your insurance company is denying your claim, a personal injury lawyer can help.
Work With a Personal Injury Attorney
It’s important to speak to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident, even if the driver hasn’t been identified yet. A lawyer who has experience working with hit and run victims can explain what options you have and help you take action to increase the chances of getting compensation for your injuries. When you hire an attorney, they can also speak to and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, which can give you more time and mental energy to dedicate to healing.
At Abdallah Law, we understand how traumatizing it is to be in a hit and run accident. We do everything in our power to help our clients hold the other driver accountable and get the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in a hit and run, call our office at 312-229-0008.
