When you’re hit by another driver, the last thing you expect is to see them race down the street away from the scene of the accident. Unfortunately, this happens far too often, leaving many victims of accidents with high medical bills and no justice. If injured by a negligent driver who fled the scene, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of recovering compensation. Keep reading to learn more and discover how a Pike County, KY car accident lawyer can assist you if you’re a hit-and-run victim.
What Is a Hit-and-Run?
When cars are involved in a collision, both drivers need to exchange information for insurance purposes and, in most instances, wait for the police to arrive on the scene. However, when struck by another vehicle, and the driver does not stop to exchange information for fear of facing repercussions and liability, this is a hit-and-run.
In Kentucky, this is illegal, and those found to flee the scene of a car accident without exchanging information with the other parties can face a Class A misdemeanor which warrants up to a year in jail and a fine of $500, on top of the cost of damages to the other driver.
A hit-and-run can also occur when a car hits an unattended vehicle or property. Drivers are supposed to make a reasonable effort to find the owner of the vehicle, and if they cannot, they should leave a note with their contact information.
How Can I Sue the Other Driver for Damages?
When you are the victim of a hit-and-run, you may worry that you will not receive justice. However, there are steps you can take to improve your chances that the perpetrator will be found and you can receive compensation.
If the other driver leaves the scene, you should not follow them, as this can pose a risk to your safety. Instead, you should call the police as soon as possible. Inform them of where the accident occurred and in which direction the car went. You should also give them as many details as possible about the make, model, and year of the vehicle. You can also provide a license plate number if you were able to see and remember it.
The police will investigate the accident and will be on the lookout for cars that have damage consistent with the collision. You may also be able to retrieve security footage of the crash from nearby homes and businesses.
You should also contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. They will assist in the search for the negligent driver to help you recover the compensation you are entitled to.
If injured by a negligent driver who left an accident scene, it’s essential to contact Shane Hall, Attorney at Law, PLLC, as soon as possible. Our dedicated legal team will do everything in our power to help locate the driver and hold them accountable for the damage they’ve caused. Reach out today to learn how we can assist you.
