Seek Legal Guidance After a Hit and Run Accident
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s critical to act quickly and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Consult with a car accident lawyer to understand your legal rights and options. Whether you were struck by an unidentified vehicle while crossing Walker Boulevard or a parked car, a skilled attorney can guide you through the complex process of seeking compensation and dealing with the insurance company. Handling a hit-and-run crash can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do will help ensure you recover from the situation effectively.
Understanding a Hit and Run Accident in Memphis
A hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash leaves the scene without providing the necessary information or rendering assistance to those involved. In Memphis, like other areas in Tennessee, hit and run collisions can leave accident victims in difficult positions, facing not only physical injuries but also challenges related to insurance and liability. If you’ve experienced a hit and run accident, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to navigate the aftermath.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Crash
When a hit and run driver causes a crash, it can be a chaotic and frightening situation. Here’s what you should do immediately after the accident:
- Ensure Your Safety and Call 911
Your first priority is your safety and the safety of others around you. If you’ve been hit by an unidentified vehicle, make sure you’re not in immediate danger of further injury. Move to a safe location if possible and immediately call 911 to report the crash. - Document the Accident Scene
Even if the other driver has fled, it’s important to document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible. This will help when gathering evidence for your insurance claim and potential legal actions.- Take pictures of the damaged vehicle, property damage, and any debris from the crash.
- Try to recall any details about the suspect vehicle, including its color, make, model, and any distinguishing features such as a license plate or vehicle damage.
- If you were involved in a hit and run collision on a busy street like Walker Boulevard, make sure to gather any nearby witness information.
- Seek Medical Attention for Your Injuries
Even if you don’t believe your injuries are serious, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Be sure to keep records of any treatments and medical expenses related to your injuries. - Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your own insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurance policies offer uninsured motorist coverage, which can help pay for medical expenses and property damage if the hit and run driver is not identified. Your insurance agent can explain the next steps for filing a claim. - File a Police Report
A police report is critical for any investigation into the crash. Officers will collect evidence, take witness statements, and attempt to identify the unidentified vehicle involved. It’s important to file the report as soon as possible and keep a copy for your records.
Gathering Evidence to Identify the Hit-and-Run Driver
Gathering evidence is crucial to recovering compensation after a hit and run accident. Here’s how you can gather information to help with the investigation:
- Witness Statements: Speak to anyone who may have witnessed the crash. Even if you were struck by an unidentified vehicle, someone nearby may have seen the hit andrun driver or can provide additional details.
- Security Camera Footage: Check nearby businesses or homes for any security cameras that may have captured the accident. This could provide crucial evidence for identifying the suspect vehicle.
- Vehicle Damage: If the hit and run driver caused damage to your vehicle, it’s possible that the damaged vehicle left behind physical evidence, such as paint or pieces of their vehicle. The police may be able to track down the driver using this evidence.
Dealing with the Insurance Company After a Hit and Run Crash
One of the most difficult parts of a hit-and-run accident is dealing with the insurance company. Whether it’s your own insurance company or the insurance company of the hit-and-run driver, you’ll need to be prepared for the following challenges:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified, your uninsured motorist insurance may cover your medical expenses and property damage. Ensure you speak with your insurance agent to understand the limits of your policy.
- Insurance Coverage for Property Damage: If you only experienced property damage, your insurance coverage may be enough to cover repairs to your damaged vehicle.
- Lost Wages and Medical Expenses: If you’ve sustained injuries that prevent you from working, your insurance may cover lost wages in addition to medical expenses. Keep all receipts and records of medical care, prescriptions, and any treatments related to the victim’s injuries.
How to Seek Compensation After a Hit and Run Accident
Even if the hit and run driver is never found, it’s still possible to seek compensation for your injuries and property damage. Tennessee law allows accident victims to pursue compensation in the following ways:
- File a Claim with Your Insurance Company: Your own insurance company may provide compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages through uninsured motorist coverage.
- Civil Lawsuit: If the hit and run driver is located, you may be able to file a civil lawsuit for damages, including compensation for serious injuries and medical expenses.
- Tennessee Code: According to Tennessee law, victims of hit and run accidents can seek compensation through personal injury claims, which can include damaged vehicle costs, property damage, and lost wages.
The Role of Law Enforcement in Hit-and-Run Investigations
When a hit and run crash occurs, local law enforcement, such as the Knoxville Police Department, will investigate the accident. The investigation may include the following steps:
- Collecting witness statements and surveillance footage
- Reviewing details about the suspect vehicle and license plate number
- Attempting to track down the hit-and-run driver and bring them to justice.
In some cases, the crash remains ongoing, and efforts to identify the run driver may take time. However, law enforcement will continue to investigate until they have enough evidence to proceed with charges.
Common Legal Issues After a Hit and Run Accident
In Tennessee, a hit and run accident may lead to serious criminal charges for the hit and run driver. Depending on the circumstances, these charges can range from a Class C misdemeanor to a Class B misdemeanor or even more serious offenses if critical injuries or death result from the crash. If the victim died as a result of the accident, the hit and run driver could face felony charges.
Take Action Now – Contact Mogy Law TN for Expert Legal Assistance
A hit and run crash can be an overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right legal guidance, you can successfully navigate the aftermath and seek the compensation you deserve. At Mogy Law TN, our experienced team is here to help you document your case, file the necessary reports, and deal with insurance companies while fighting for your rights.
If you’ve been involved in a hit and run accident in Memphis, don’t wait. Tennessee law allows victims to recover compensation, even if the hit and run driver is never found. Reach out to Mogy Law TN today to consult with a skilled car accident lawyer who will work tirelessly on your behalf, ensuring you receive the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Contact us now (414) 334-5472 to get the legal support you deserve.
