You may know what to do in the aftermath of a car crash, including calling 911, exchanging information with other drivers, and talking to witnesses. However, everything changes if the other driver involved suddenly leaves the scene of the accident or doesn’t bother to stop at all. This situation leaves injured motorists feeling helpless on an all-too-regular basis.
The good news is that you do have options after hit and run accident. The process of obtaining compensation after a driver flees the scene can be complicated, so you should always talk to a Georgia car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a hit and run accident.
Different Types of Hit and Runs
Not all hit and run crashes are the same, and our attorneys evaluate each client’s rights and options based on their individual circumstances. Some hit and run claims we handle include:
- A driver crashes into your car while you are driving and then drives away without exchanging information or providing assistance in compliance with Georgia law.
- A driver hits your parked car and does not stop to provide information or notice of the accident.
- A driver crashes into a bicyclist or a pedestrian and flees the scene without stopping to help or give information.
It is particularly important to recognize that hit and run accidents affect pedestrians, as well as motorists. In fact, reports indicate that about 20 percent of pedestrian deaths result from hit and runs. Our firm represents injured motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, as well as family members who lost a loved one in a hit and run.
Know Your Options for Financial Recovery
First, know that not every hit and run driver gets away scot-free. In many situations, a witness may report the license plate number or other identifying information of the driver who fled. If police can track the driver down, you can then file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit directly against the driver and the insurer.
If police do not identify the driver, do not lose hope. You can file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist policy. This type of policy also comes into play when you cannot identify the at-fault driver.
While filing a claim under your own policy may seem straightforward, you should still always seek help from a skilled attorney. Your insurance company may try to limit liability – even for its own policyholders. You want to ensure that you do not accept a settlement that is less than you deserve and our attorneys will handle every step of the insurance process for you.
Our Gwinnett Car Accident and Insurance Lawyers are Here to Help
The process of seeking recovery after a hit and run will vary depending on the circumstances of your crash. The experienced car accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC regularly help clients in and around Gwinnett County who are unsure where to turn. We offer free consultations and can advise you of your rights, so please call 404-418-8244 or contact us online today.
