Legal Tips to Seek Justice After a Hit-and-Run Accident

The rate of hit-and-runs is on the rise. This troubling trend is also present in St. Louis, where hit-and-run accidents have grown to be a major problem. Recent data indicates that 40% of all car crash incidents in St. Louis are hit-and-runs. The victims of these incidents suffer from emotional distress in addition to physical injuries and personal injury attorney.

But rest assured—you are not by yourself. With appropriate actions and a dedicated personal injury attorney, you can overcome this tough time and achieve justice. Let us go over what to do if you are in a hit-and-run situation in detail.

Seeking Restitution Following a Hit-and-Run

Getting into a hit-and-run incident can be extremely upsetting and lonely. You would likely feel hopeless and confused about the next steps when the offending party leaves the scene.

Here’s how to make an intimidating situation more manageable.

Stay Safe and Gather Details

Ensure that you and your co-passengers are safe. After you are not in immediate danger, make an effort to gather as much data as you can.

Small details can be useful, such as the other vehicle’s color or make. If any witnesses saw anything, ask them if they can speak with the police. Nearby local stores may have security cameras that capture the event.

Contact the Police Right Away

You have to notify the police at the first chance. Giving them all the information you collected will support their inquiry. Any claims or legal actions that may come up in the future will require this police report. The official record demonstrates that you followed all the rules exactly.

Get Medical Attention

No matter how fine you feel, make sure to see a doctor. Injuries may not be apparent right away. Only about 40% of collision victims visit the emergency room, believing they “feel fine” post-accident. Additionally, keeping a medical record of your post-accident condition can prove to be highly beneficial in the future. It is about looking after yourself and making sure that your health is recorded.

Get Hold of Your Insurance Provider

Report the hit-and-run to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Assisting your insurance firm throughout its process expedites your claim and increases the possibility of a favorable outcome. Cooperation may involve answering follow-up questions, facilitating access to your vehicle for inspection, or providing additional documentation as requested.

Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney

It can be a challenging task to deal with hit-and-run aftermath on your own. Recent data reflects a broader national trend where fatal hit-and-run crashes have risen by 89% over the past decade. For instance, newly released footage from August 2023 showed a hit-and-run near Busch Stadium. A black pickup truck struck two people after a road rage incident, highlighting the reckless behavior that accompanies these accidents.

In such situations, do not endure the burden alone; always seek legal assistance.  Just as a St. Louis personal injury attorney guides clients through the complexities, attorneys in other states provide similar services. These professionals assist with all stages, from gathering proof to settling claims with insurers. Their expertise ensures you understand your options and effectively advocates for you, simplifying the process regardless of location.

Remember to keep records of everything connected to the mishap. It can also be very helpful to keep a journal about your emotional and physical well-being. Working with your lawyer will be made much easier with this comprehensive documentation.

Examine Every Available Compensation

You can investigate all potential sources of compensation with the assistance of your personal injury attorney.

Uninsured motorist coverage compensates for injuries and damages when the at-fault driver is unidentified. Further, Personal injury protection may cover your medical costs and potentially lost wages, irrespective of fault. Collision coverage assists in covering the costs of repairs to the victim’s vehicle. Beyond auto insurance, health insurance covers medical treatments.

So, stay in contact with your attorney and be informed about the details and developments in your case. According to TorHoerman Law, staying informed can increase your sense of control and provide peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I proceed if I am unable to identify the driver who struck me?

Act quickly to gather available information that can help track down the responsible party. Ensure your safety first, then note the fleeing vehicle’s color, model, and any visible license plate numbers. Look around for potential witnesses who might have observed the incident and could provide additional details or even testify. Additionally, check the vicinity for security cameras that might have captured the accident on video.

2. What is the statutory time limit in St. Louis, Missouri, for initiating a claim after a hit-and-run incident?

In St. Louis, Missouri, the period for initiating a claim (statute of limitations) for a hit-and-run accident is 5 years (maximum). This applies to property damage and personal injury claims. To make sure that all of the evidence is current, begin the process as soon as possible.

3. What are the legal consequences of committing a hit-and-run in Missouri?

Under Missouri’s hit-and-run regulations, a driver responsible for an accident that causes only property damage may face misdemeanor charges. Conversely, if the incident leads to physical injuries or fatalities, the driver can face penalties. This includes fines of approx $5,000 and imprisonment for a maximum of 4 years.

4. What kinds of losses am I entitled to following a hit-and-run incident?

Following a hit-and-run incident attorney, victims may be entitled to compensation to manage the consequences of the accident. These compensations cover medical expenses for both immediate and ongoing treatments linked with injuries sustained. If property damage occurs, victims seek funds for repairs or replacement of their personal belongings damaged. Lost wages are also claimable if injuries prevent the victim from working.

Experiencing a hit-and-run accident can be traumatic, but you do not have to go through it alone. Remember to stay safe and seek help. Reach out to professionals who can support you through this challenging time and ensure justice is served. Stay informed, keep detailed records, and communicate openly with your attorney.