Hit and run accidents in Dunwoody can cause a lot of pain and damage. Worst of all, they can leave the victim with fewer compensation options. If you or a loved one were hurt in a hit and run, you must speak with a lawyer.
A Dunwoody hit and run accident lawyer can explore your options. You shouldn’t have to pay for the other driver’s mistakes. But when the driver leaves the scene, you’ll need help building your case.
Our car accident lawyers at John Foy & Associates can assist. We have been helping accident victims for over 20 years. We also don’t charge you unless we win compensation for you. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation today.
Who’s Responsible for Hit and Run Accident Costs
When a driver’s carelessness causes an accident, that driver is responsible for the costs. Typically, you could file a claim with the driver’s insurance company. But a hit and run accident complicates things.
The driver is still at fault, but you can’t hold them responsible without their information. You’ll need to investigate the accident and try to find the driver. If the driver left the scene, that’s a clear sign of negligence.
Georgia Code § 40-6-270 covers what drivers should do after an accident with injuries, death, or vehicle damage. All drivers should:
- Immediately stop at the scene
- Give their name, address, and registration number
- Show their driver’s license (if requested)
- Provide or call for assistance to anyone injured in the crash
A driver should stay at the accident scene until they’ve completed everything above. Not stopping is incredibly careless.
Sometimes hit and run accidents involve multiple vehicles. If another driver was partially at fault, you might need to file several claims. Talk to an experienced hit and run accident lawyer who can help you with each step.
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Hit and Run Accident Penalties
If a hit and run accident causes serious injuries or death, the driver is guilty of a felony. A felony conviction means between one and five years in prison.
If the accident causes any other type of injury or vehicle damage, the driver faces a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction means:
- Between $300 and $1,000 in fines
- Up to 12 months in prison
- Or both
The penalties are even higher with multiple convictions.
A hit and run accident lawyer can determine what the driver might face. If the driver is convicted of the crime, it can help your case. A conviction will support your claim that you were injured in a hit and run.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage for Hit and Runs
An experienced lawyer will use every resource to find the driver. However, sometimes you can’t identify the person who fled. In that case, you can turn to your own insurance company.
Most drivers in Georgia have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. You probably do unless you opted out when buying your insurance policy. You can file a claim with your own insurance to cover the accident.
Your insurance company should have your best interest in mind. But all insurance companies are looking for ways to cut costs. Protect your rights from the beginning with the help of a hit and run accident lawyer.
Compensation You Deserve from a Hit and Run
If you suffered injuries in a crash you didn’t cause, you’re entitled to financial recovery. You can seek compensation for your personal injury damages like:
- Medical bills
- Long-term medical care
- Lost income
- Lost earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
Hit and run accident damages can be great. Many victims suffer painful injuries that need long-term care. Some have disabilities that affect their ability to work.
Some damages are non-economic. For example, a tragic accident can leave you with emotional trauma and more. It’s best to work with a lawyer so that you know all of your losses.
John Foy & Associates will account for all of your accident costs, including long-term medical needs. To discuss your crash during a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
How a Dunwoody Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Helps
A trusted lawyer can help in many ways after a hit and run accident. Here are the main ways.
Hands-On Knowledge
Hit and run accidents are really complicated. A lawyer will know how to gather evidence from the crash and look for the fleeing driver. You can rely on expert knowledge of personal injury law related to hit and run accidents.
Gathering Evidence
You’ll need to show that the driver intentionally left the scene. Your claim should also show that the driver was responsible for the accident and your damages.
Your lawyer will also help gather evidence like:
- Witness statements
- Pictures from the scene
- Information on the at-fault driver
- Traffic camera or other video footage
- Expert testimony
- Copies of your medical records
Handling the Insurance Company
Insurance companies do not like to pay much on injury claims. A Dunwoody hit and run accident lawyer will know how to handle the insurance companies.
If the insurer offers you a lowball settlement, your lawyer will work to negotiate. Your lawyer can also communicate with the insurance company for you.
Doing Whatever It Takes
Hit and run crashes can escalate quickly. If you can’t file a personal injury claim, you might need to sue. A good lawyer will not be afraid to take your case as far as it takes. They should devote their time and experience to fighting for the fullest recovery possible.
Talk to a Dunwoody Hit and Run Accident Lawyer for Free Today
Hit and run accidents are incredibly stressful experiences. If you or a loved one were injured, don’t wait to consult with a lawyer.
John Foy & Associates is here to help. With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to win cases—even when the driver flees. Plus, we don’t charge you a fee unless we win your case.
Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get a free consultation today.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
