A hit and run is a type of accident in which a driver runs off the scene without attending to the victim or leaving behind their information. This may be scary and disappointing, particularly when you are left with medical bills or car repair expenses. Knowing who will pay the damages will help you to take the right course of action after the accident.
Oklahoma is characterized by high-traffic roads with thousands of vehicles in a single day. Regrettably, hit-and-run cases are frequent on these roads, and the victims are always left with inquiries and uncertainty about what to do next. That is why Oklahoma Injury Law Firm hit-and-run accident attorneys are sought after by many to provide legal help and advice.
These lawyers help victims seek compensation either through insurance or legal action. They help in gathering evidence and negotiating with the insurers to restore the victims’ loss. They work to ensure that victims do not bear the financial burden caused by a hit-and-run driver.
Can You Sue After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Yes, it is possible to sue following a hit-and-run accident when the driver is known. Once that occurs, the at-fault driver may be legally held liable for your injuries, damages to your vehicle, and other forms of loss. Even when the driver is not discovered, your insurance will help you to recover compensation.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that approximately 25 percent of pedestrian deaths in the U.S. involve a hit-and-run crash. These statistics demonstrate the seriousness and prevalence of such cases and the possibility of the need to take legal action to get what you deserve.
There are various forms of compensation that victims can claim, such as payment for medical bills, loss of wages, cost of repairing cars, and emotional distress. Punitive damages can also be used in certain situations to penalize irresponsible conduct. Having a professional attorney handle your case will increase your chance to secure fair compensation.
Who Pays for the Damages If the Driver Is Not Found?
In case the hit-and-run driver is nowhere to be found, the damages are usually covered by the insurance of the victim. As a matter of fact, according to the Insurance Research Council, about one in eight motorists in the U.S. is uninsured, and, therefore, hit-and-run coverage is more essential than ever. Luckily there are a number of insurance policies that can assist you.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM)
This coverage covers medical costs and property destruction when the at-fault driver is not insured or cannot be located. It is also one of the most helpful safeguards for victims of a hit and run. It can also cover pain and suffering if it is included in your policy.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
PIP is useful in meeting medical expenses, lost income, and even necessities such as childcare. It is applicable irrespective of the cause of the accident. This is particularly handy when the runaway driver is not identified.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage pays for damage to your car after an accident, even when the other driver cannot be identified. You will probably need to pay a deductible, but it will keep you from having to pay the full amount. Most motorists include this in their policy for added peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
Hit-and-run accidents can make you face physical, emotional, and financial problems. But it can be easy to recover when you become aware of your rights and insurance solutions.
If you find yourself in hit-and-run, you should bear the following in mind:
- The at-fault driver can be sued.
- You can be protected by insurance policies such as UM, PIP, and collision coverage.
- Statistics indicate that hit-and-run accidents are a common occurrence, and therefore, always be ready.
- Attorneys can help you get the compensation and justice that you deserve.
