A “hit and run accident” occurs when the negligent party
flees the scene, leaving the victims to deal with the costs of their injuries
and property damage. If you are a victim
of a hit and run traffic accident, you may still be able to recover damages
even though the liable party fled the scene.
This article discusses the recovery options of a hit and run
accident victim.
Collecting Damages
From Your Own Insurance Policy
Unless you or your car accident attorney is able to identify
the negligent party who fled the scene of the accident, there is no way to hold
that individual accountable. Your only option may be to collect damages from
your own car insurance policy.
You can invoke your uninsured motorist coverage under your
own policy, which is designed to compensate you for damages you may have sustained
in an accident where the at-fault party is uninsured or fled
the scene of the accident. This policy may also afford coverage to other family
members who reside in your household, including minor children who may be away
at college.
Finding the Liable
Party
In some cases, your attorney may be able to locate the
negligent party who fled the scene through creative methods of investigation.
Some methods that your attorney or its investigator may use to find the running
driver includes obtaining information through witness identification of the
license plate or video evidence from the scene of accident. In rare cases, the
fleeing party may even turn themselves in to law enforcement.
Hire an Experienced
Attorney to Help
Hit and run accidents are generally complex. Although your
own insurance policy may provide you with compensation, their goal is still to
pay you as little as they can to maximize the company’s profits.
To ensure that you get the full extent of damages you are
entitled to, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced car
accident attorney who specifically handles hit and run accidents.
Call Us
For more information or to schedule a complimentary
consultation with Orange County hit and run accident attorney Samer Habbas,
please call 888.848.5084.
