Can I Get Compensation If I Was Injured In a Hit and Run Accident?

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.