Experiencing an auto accident in Leesburg Virginia can be both terrifying and stressful, and the situation worsens when the at-fault driver leaves the scene. In this unfortunate circumstance, contacting a local Virginia hit and run attorney should be one of your top priorities. Even if you are unsure of the identity of the driver who hit you, contacting a Virginia hit-and-run accident lawyer can be crucial for building a solid case.
Hit and Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident occurs when one party is involved in a collision and fails to stay at the scene to exchange information. It can also refer to situations where the driver cannot be identified. Typically, a hit-and-run revolves around the lack of information exchange between the parties involved.
The law mandates that drivers exchange information for this reason: it allows individuals who have suffered personal injuries or property damage in a vehicle accident to ensure that the other party's insurance and their insurance are notified, facilitating the proper handling of claims. A Virginia hit-and-run accident lawyer can assist the injured party in contacting their insurance company if they cannot do so themselves.
Hit and Run Accidents vs. Other Car Accidents
A hit-and-run accident stands out from other car accidents primarily due to the challenges in identifying who is at fault and notifying the appropriate parties about the damages incurred by the injured person. In a typical accident, both parties are present, allowing their insurance companies to be informed and liability to be established.
However, in a hit-and-run situation, identifying the responsible party can be difficult or even impossible. This complicates pursuing a claim against the other driver's insurance. In such cases, the injured person may have access to Uninsured Motorist (UM) or Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage through their insurance policy, which can protect in these scenarios.
Common Scenarios in Hit and Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents can occur in various situations. One of the most frequent scenarios involves a minor collision, such as a fender bender, where one driver assesses the damage and drives away without exchanging information. This type of hit-and-run is much more common than the more serious incidents where a driver hits another vehicle, fails to slow down, and attempts to escape unnoticed.
In these severe cases, the fleeing driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol or may be trying to avoid law enforcement due to involvement in other criminal activities. Hit-and-run accidents can also happen on private property, where a driver damages someone's property and then leaves the scene, leaving the property owner to figure out who is responsible for the damage.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Injury
If you've been injured in a hit-and-run accident, the first step is to contact law enforcement. Please provide them with as much identifying information as possible to help them locate the responsible driver.
Next, assess whether you or anyone else involved needs emergency medical assistance. If medical help is required, call emergency services immediately to ensure you and your passengers receive proper care.
Once you have taken these initial steps, it's crucial to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer. They can guide you on your rights, how to inform your insurance company, and how to contact other relevant parties. Additionally, they can help you understand the timeline you can expect for the investigation and the progress of your hit-and-run claim.
Recoverable Damages in a Hit-and-Run Case
In a hit-and-run situation, you can usually seek the same damages if the other driver has been identified. This can include general and special damages, such as medical costs, lost income, and compensation for pain and suffering. Additionally, you might qualify for punitive damages in certain circumstances.
Punitive damages are designed to penalize the wrongdoer, and their availability will depend on the specific details of your case. Suppose you believe punitive damages might apply to your situation or want to learn how they could impact your claim. In that case, speaking with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer who frequently handles these cases in Virginia is crucial.
How a Lawyer Can Assist After a Hit-and-Run Accident
A lawyer can provide valuable assistance to individuals injured in a hit-and-run accident in several ways. A Virginia hit-and-run accident lawyer can conduct an investigation and collaborate with law enforcement and other agencies to identify the responsible party and determine their whereabouts.
Additionally, a lawyer can guide the injured person in working with their insurance company to develop a solid strategy for notifying the at-fault party and identifying any other potential liable parties. They can also help assess what type of underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage (UM or UIM) the individual may have and explain how to activate it to ensure the best protection for their interests.
