A hit and run accident occurs when a driver crashes into a pedestrian, bicyclist, property, or motorist and leaves without offering help or providing identification. The consequences of a serious hit-and-run accident are paralysis, brain injuries, and even death. Additionally, hit and run accidents can cause property damage.
Therefore, hit-and-run accidents can completely change your life. Fortunately, you can file a claim to seek compensation for your losses in Georgia. However, insurers can try to underpay, delay, or even deny your claims. It is stressful and difficult to fight the insurer. Hire a Fort Stewart hit-and-run accident lawyer to fight the insurer on your behalf.
The Fort Stewart accident lawyers at The Weinstein Firm are dedicated to helping our clients recover the damages they rightfully deserve. We will establish fault for your accident, negotiate a fair settlement, and defend your right to maximum compensation. Contact the Weinstein Firm for a free case evaluation.
Why Would A Driver Leave the Scene After an Accident?
Drivers mostly leave the accident scene to avoid getting caught.
Here are some of the reasons why would a driver leave the scene after an accident:
Fear of Consequences
Drivers can leave the accident scene because they fear the consequences. They know they will have to pay money for the injuries and damages that they caused. Also, drivers do not want to lose their driver’s license and go to jail.
Driving Drunk
People know the consequences of drunk drinking. However, many people still drink and drive. If a drunk driver causes an accident, they are more likely to leave the accident. They leave the accident scene because they do not want to get caught drunk behind the wheel.
Uninsured
Some drivers drive vehicles without insurance. If they hit someone or property, they are more likely to flee the scene. They know they will spend more money if they are caught. Therefore, they prefer to leave the scene to avoid paying for the losses.
Driving Stolen Vehicle
If someone steals a vehicle and hits someone or property with the stolen vehicle, the person will leave the accident scene immediately. The person knows they may spend a few years in jail, so it is much safer for the person to escape the accident scene.
What Should You Do If a Driver Leaves After a Car Accident?
Do Not Leave the Accident
It is tempting to chase the driver. In our opinion, it is better to remain at the accident scene. Do not try to chase the other driver or leave the accident. Leaving the accident scene can undermine your claim. If you can move, you can snap a photo of the vehicle’s license plate as it leaves the accident scene.
Call the Police
Call the police immediately after the accident. The police will come to the accident scene immediately. They will talk to the witnesses. They will also interview you. Do not admit fault to the police. Let the police do their job. You will use the police report to help you recover damages.
Seek Medical Attention
You need to seek medical attention after the accident. Do not even ignore minor injuries. Some minor injuries might worsen after a few days. Visit a doctor to check your injuries and provide you treatment. Your doctor can provide a detailed medical report, which you will use to file your claim.
Contact Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
Do not contact your insurance company before you contact your hit-and-run accident lawyer. Discuss your situation with your lawyer before you contact your insurer. Your lawyer will assess your situation to help you determine your legal options. Your lawyer can even get you coverage from your insurance policy.
What Damages Can Victims Get From A Hit and Run Accident Claim in Georgia?
The damages victims can get from a hit and run accident claim in Georgia are compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages caused by the hit and run accident.
If you will find the at-fault driver and the driver has the required insurance, then you will get compensation for your medical bills and other expenses from their insurer.
If you did not find the at-fault driver or if the at-fault driver does not have the required insurance, you will rely on your insurance coverage to cover some of the costs of your treatment and repairing your vehicle.
Here are some of the damages you can get from a hit and run accident in Georgia:
Economic Damages
Assessments, projections, estimates, invoices, and other monetary statements are used to verify economic damages. These damages include; property damage statements, medical expenses, lost benefits, lost income, and more.
Non-Economic Damages
They are intangible losses since they do not come with financial projections and statements. These damages include; stress and anxiety, loss of consortium, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and more.
Punitive Damages
The court uses punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver for negligent or malicious behavior.
How Long do I Have to File a Claim for a Hit and Run Accident Claim in Georgia?
The statute of limitations in Georgia is 2 years. This means you have 2 years from the date of your hit and run accident to file for a hit and run accident claim in Georgia.
Why do I Need a Hit and Run Accident Lawyer?
Protect Your Rights
Insurers do not have your best interests at heart. Insurers will work hard to prove you are at fault. If they fail to do that, they will try to minimize the amount of your settlement. Hire a hit and run accident lawyer to fight for you and protect your rights.
Comply With Strict Rules
Your lawyer will ensure you comply with strict rules. The lawyer will schedule damage inspections and complete the paperwork. It is difficult to deal with legal procedures on your own because you can make costly mistakes.
Assess Your Damages
It is easy to accept the settlement offer of the insurance company. However, lawyers will assess your damages to ensure you are getting a huge settlement amount. Do not rush to accept the settlement of the insurance company. Instead, hire a lawyer to ensure you are getting what you deserve.
Contact The Weinstein Firm to Speak to a Fort Stewart Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
People are getting injured regularly due to hit-and-run accidents. These drivers need to be punished for injuring innocent people. You need to understand you have the right to make a claim for your actual damages.
Once you decide to make a claim, hire a skilled hit-and-run accident lawyer to file your lawsuit. Your lawyer will prepare your case, file your lawsuit, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure you get a fair settlement.
Our skilled and experienced hit-and-run accident lawyers at The Weinstein Firm can help you identify the party who might be held responsible for your losses. You will not pay upfront fees to hire our lawyers. We will work hard to win your case. If we do not win, you will not pay us. Contact us today for a free consultation.
