Hit and run accidents in Atlanta are devastating for the injured person. The fleeing driver has left the scene instead of doing the right thing. You might worry this leaves you with no options, but don’t give up yet. An Atlanta hit and run accident lawyer will know what to do.
Our lawyers have been helping hit and run victims for over 20 years. Learn more during a FREE consultation. We’ll match you with the best car accident lawyer for your needs.
If you’ve experienced a severe injury, contact our Atlanta car accident lawyers to know if you may be eligible for compensation. Then, Call or contact us online to get started for FREE.
What Causes a Hit and Run Accident?
After an accident, drivers are supposed to do the following:
- Call 911 to report the accident if there are injuries, deaths, or over $500 in property damage.
- Help anyone who has injuries from the accident.
- Exchange names, contact information, and insurance information.
- Stay at the scene until the police arrive.
With a hit and run accident, the other driver flees. Most of the time, it’s because they have something else to hide. A hit and run driver is still liable for an accident they caused. If you suffered a hit and run, don’t wait to get help. Call or contact our Atlanta personal injury lawyer online for a FREE consultation.
Types of Cases Our Hit and Run Accident Lawyers in Atlanta Take
Our attorneys are seasoned in hit and run cases. While we don’t make guarantees, we have tactics for identifying the at-fault driver. We’ll do whatever it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.
Examples of hit and run accidents include:
- Hitting another vehicle and leaving the scene
- Crashing into a parked car and leaving without trying to contact the car’s owner
- Colliding with a bicyclist or pedestrian and fleeing
All of the above situations are horrifying for the injured party. Whether you were another driver or a pedestrian, a hit and run can feel like a slap in the face. The other driver has failed in their legal duty to you.
Don’t give up, though. You still have options.
What to Do if the Other Driver Hits and Runs
If you were injured in a hit and run accident, here is how to collect the evidence you can get from an accident scene:
- Write down anything you can remember about the other driver. For example, details about their appearance, license plate number, and vehicle description are helpful.
- Take pictures of your injuries, vehicle damage, and the entire scene. Photo evidence will show what the other driver has done.
- Talk to any witnesses. If anyone else saw the crash, they might have additional details. Ask witnesses what they remember about the driver. The witness might even recognize the driver’s identity.
- Call the police. Call 911 to report the accident. Tell the dispatcher that you’re the victim of a hit and run. If anyone has severe injuries, call for an ambulance.
You might feel tempted to follow the other driver. But this is a bad idea. Instead, gather information and call the police.
Also, call a hit and run accident attorney in Atlanta, GA. An experienced lawyer can start an investigation to identify the driver. Our attorneys have been working hit and run accident cases for over 20 years, so we know what to do.
The Driver Is Still Responsible for Your Damages
A driver cannot evade responsibility by fleeing the scene. They are still legally liable for your damages like:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
You might also be eligible for punitive damages after a hit and run. Punitive damages are meant to punish the driver for wrongdoing. Talk to your lawyer about seeking these damages.
Typically, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for the costs. If you identify the driver, you can file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against them.
The Other Driver Could Face a Felony
If a hit and run accident causes serious injuries or death, it’s a felony offense. The driver could face a suspended driver’s license, fines, and prison time under Georgia Code §40-6-270.
Even if the driver didn’t cause the accident, they are guilty of fleeing the scene.
What Happens if You Cannot Find the Hit and Run Driver
First, contact the police and an experienced lawyer. Both can help you investigate the accident and look for the driver. Many times, you can find the driver with help.
If you cannot find the driver, you still have options to get compensation. You can file a claim using your own insurance company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist policy. Most people have this coverage, but contact your insurer if you’re not sure.
Don’t Miss the Statute of Limitations for a Hit and Run Case
You have two years from the accident date to file a case. Sometimes, the timeline is shorter.
It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. They will need time to gather evidence and build your case.
Our Atlanta car accident lawyers can help you get started as soon as today.
How a Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Atlanta, GA, Helps You
If you identify the other driver, you can pursue compensation from them. However, hit and run drivers don’t always have insurance coverage or many assets. If you cannot find the other driver or they don’t have insurance, you’ll turn to your own insurer.
Any time you deal with an insurance company, it’s best to have a lawyer on your side. Insurance companies will look for any way to pay you less. But with a lawyer, you can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Hit and run accidents become complicated quickly. Protect your legal rights by consulting with an experienced lawyer today.
Call an Atlanta Hit and Run Accident Lawyer for Free Today
Our Atlanta car accident lawyers have been practicing personal injury law for over 20 years. If another driver’s carelessness caused your collision, we’re here to help. That includes hit and run accidents.
Hit-and-run accidents are very complicated and challenging, but our lawyers are not afraid of complex cases. Schedule a FREE consultation today to tell us more about your needs.
We do not charge you anything upfront, and we only take a fee if we win you a settlement. We are not afraid to fight until you get the offer you deserve. To get your FREE consultation, call the number on your screen or contact our Atlanta hit and run accident lawyers through our website.
