A “hit and run accident” is a type of car accident in which one party leaves the scene without identifying themselves or helping someone in need. A hit and run car accident can involve another vehicle, person, object, or animal. In Georgia, someone hitting your car in a parking lot and driving away without leaving a note is also considered a hit and run.
What Should I Do After a Georgia Hit and Run Accident?
Knowing what to do when you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident can be confusing. You may feel overwhelmed once the car that hit you has sped away. Here are some quick tips:
- Move the car to a safe spot. Stop and make sure that you and your passengers are okay. Call for immediate medical care if necessary.
- Document the accident by taking photos and videos of the vehicle and area, if possible. Write down the date, time, and location. Also, note anything you observed about the other car and driver and the surrounding area (lights, debris, construction).
- Get the name, contact details, and statements of witnesses to the accident.
- Call the police. The police may be able to locate the car which hit you or, at the very least, they can file a police report.
- Hire a Georgia hit and run personal injury lawyer who can help with your claim.
Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Hit and Run Car Accident Occurred?
Yes, you can, but trying to recover damages after a hit-and-run accident can be complicated. In addition, insurance companies are wary of this type of claim because of the risk of fraud and their general inclination to deny claims. Here’s what you need to know about hit and run personal injury lawsuits:
- Uninsured Motorist Claim. Generally, victims of hit-and-run accidents recover damages by filing an uninsured motorist claim through their own car insurance policy. However, because of how insurance companies view hit-and-run claims, your own insurance company might be skeptical of your claim. Therefore, reporting the claim on your own may work against you. Victims of hit-and-run accidents should always hire an attorney with experience with this specific type of accident. The attorney will evaluate all evidence, review all insurance policies available, and determine the best way to proceed.
- Locate the Driver. If the party who hit you is identified, you can pursue legal action against that person, provided they have adequate insurance coverage. Unfortunately, most hit-and-run drivers are never located.
Contact an Atlanta Hit and Run Accident Attorney at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm
At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, our injury and accident attorneys know how to win hit and run accident cases and would love to help you during this difficult time. We take all our cases on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay a thing unless we get you paid! Contact us today!
