Any car accident in Cartersville is upsetting. However, hit and run accidents bring additional stress and uncertainty. If a driver flees the scene, you will have to find them before taking legal action. Thankfully, a Cartersville hit and run accident lawyer can help.
Without the driver’s identity, it’s impossible to file a claim against them. It’s best to consult with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll let you know your options.
To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Our Cartersville car accident lawyer can review what happened and explain your possible next steps.
A Hit and Run Is a Crime in Cartersville
Under Georgia Code §40-6-270, when someone causes an accident, they must stop if there are:
- Injuries
- Deaths
- Or vehicle damage
The driver should stop and check on everyone in the crash. The driver should also:
- Provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number;
- Show their driver’s license if another driver in the collision asks for it;
- Help anyone injured in the accident to get medical attention; and
- Provide help to anyone who seems unconscious, dead, or unable to communicate.
Also, anyone in an accident with injuries or vehicle damage should call the police. Responding officers will create an accident report detailing what happened.
With a hit and run accident, the driver doesn’t do any of the above. By failing to stop, the driver has committed a crime. If the damage is minor, the driver can face a misdemeanor. If there were severe injuries or death, it’s a felony crime.
Typically, the at-fault driver in an accident is liable for the damages. The driver’s insurance company should cover the costs. However, this is impossible if you don’t know the driver’s identity.
Why Drivers Flee After an Accident
A driver might leave the scene for many reasons. A driver might perform a hit and run accident because of:
- A suspended driver’s license
- No valid driver’s license
- No auto insurance
- Drunk or drugged driving
- An outstanding warrant
- Lack of legal documentation
The driver is typically trying to avoid a consequence. They know that something undesirable will happen to them if the police look up their information. At the same time, they are choosing to leave the victim without any options.
No matter why a driver flees, they are responsible. To get help with your case today, contact John Foy & Associates. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.
How a Hit and Run Accident Can Benefit Your Case
Of course, hit and run accidents are never ideal. However, there are ways that the driver’s actions might help your case.
If a driver hit your car and ran, they might face criminal charges. The driver’s charges can help your personal injury case. If the charges relate to the accident, they’ll help show the driver’s carelessness. You might also be eligible for punitive damages (Georgia Code §51-12-5.1).
If you cannot find the driver or they don’t have insurance, you can turn to your own insurer. Your uninsured/underinsured motorist policy should cover hit and run accident damages. However, talk to a lawyer before speaking with the insurance company directly.
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How to Handle the Aftermath of a Hit and Run Accident
After a hit and run accident, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible. Here are some steps we recommend taking immediately.
Gather Whatever You Can About the Driver
If you can remember anything about the other driver, write it down. If you have time, snap a picture of the car as it’s speeding away. Note any part of the license plate or driver’s looks you might remember.
Anything you can provide about the driver will help track them down.
Call the Police
Contact the police right after the crash. Tell them that another driver hit you and left the scene. When officers arrive, make sure they create an accident report. Tell the police anything you can about the other motorist.
The police should use what you provide to track down the at-fault driver. If they find the driver, they’ll be responsible for the damages.
Talk to Witnesses
If anyone else saw the crash happen, talk to them. Ask for their names and contact information.
The police and your lawyer will talk to witnesses about what they saw. Witnesses might remember critical details about the driver’s appearance or car. Sometimes, witnesses will have more information than those involved in the accident.
Keep Track of Your Damages
A hit and run accident can affect you in many ways. You will probably have losses like:
- Medical bills
- Medication costs
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Vehicle repair costs
Besides financial losses, you might have pain and suffering damages. Keep bills, receipts, and notes on how the accident has affected you. If you identify the driver, you can pursue compensation for these costs.
An Experienced Lawyer Will Fill in the Blanks
Talk to an experienced hit and run accident lawyer as soon as possible. Finding a hit and run driver requires quick action. The police will help, but they rarely have the resources of an attorney.
An experienced attorney has seen their fair share of hit and run crashes. They will know where to look and how to get additional information. Plus, a lawyer can help with your own insurance company if you file an uninsured motorist claim.
Don’t wait to get started. Time is vital after a hit and run. You will need time to look for the other driver and build your case. With professional assistance, you’ll improve your chances of catching the other party.
Speak with a Cartersville Hit and Run Accident Lawyer for Free Today
When a driver leaves the scene, it causes a lot of stress for the injured driver. If you were the victim of a hit and run, you don’t have to handle it alone. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll work to get the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to discuss the details during a FREE consultation. If you hire us, there is no fee unless we win your case.
Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your FREE consultation. We are available 24/7 to take your call.
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