Hit and run accidents can be devastating in Marietta. A driver causes your accident, but they flee the scene before you can get their information. If you’re not sure what to do next, speak with a Marietta hit and run accident lawyer today.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help you. Our lawyers have been helping hit and run accident victims for over 20 years. We only work for injury victims, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. We will not collect a fee unless we win your case. To get started for FREE today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
What to Do Right After a Hit and Run Accident in Marietta
In Georgia, you must report a car accident that meets specific criteria. According to Georgia Code Section 40-6-273, drivers should call the police about an accident with:
- Personal injuries.
- Deaths.
- $500 or more in property damage.
Drivers should also stop and exchange names, contact numbers, and insurance information. No one should leave the scene before calling the police and making sure everyone is okay.
But what if the at-fault driver doesn’t stick around? If the other driver flees, you might wonder what to do. You might even think about driving away in frustration. But you should remain where you are and call the police.
Call 911 and tell the dispatcher that someone hit you and ran. If you can remember anything about the other driver, tell the police. Write down whatever you can remember. If you got pictures of the other driver, save them as evidence.
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Penalties for a Hit and Run in Marietta
Hit and run accidents are serious crimes. If you and the police can find the other driver, they will face charges. Many times, a driver who flees has something else to hide like:
- Warrants.
- Previous driving-related charges.
- No insurance coverage.
- An expired driver’s license.
- Drugs or alcohol in their vehicle.
There is never a good reason to leave the scene of an accident. The driver has left you without any way to pay for your damages. They should pay for the losses they’ve caused you.
A hit and run can mean a felony charge. If the accident caused severe injuries or deaths, the driver could face between one and five years in prison. If the accident caused just injuries, the driver could face:
- A misdemeanor charge.
- Up to 12 months in prison.
- Between $300 and $1,000 in fines.
Talk to a Marietta hit and run accident lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help you look for the other driver. They can also help you build a case to seek compensation. If you cannot find the driver, your lawyer might have other ideas for you.
To discuss all of your legal options, call John Foy & Associates today. We’ll listen to your situation and talk about the details. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your FREE consultation.
Your Marietta Hit and Run Accident Damages
If you can identify the other driver, they are responsible for your damages. Examples of common hit and run accident damages include:
- Doctor bills
- Hospital bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
You might also claim punitive damages. These damages are only available in certain types of cases. If the driver’s behavior was reckless or malicious, punitive damages can apply. Hit and run accidents include situations you might have punitive damages.
If you lost a loved one in a hit and run crash, you could have a wrongful death case. Talk to your lawyer about the possibility of wrongful death damages like:
- Medical costs
- Lost income
- Funeral costs
- Burial expenses
- Loss of consortium or companionship
Before you can file a claim for damages, you’ll need to know the driver’s identity. Your hit and run accident lawyer will help you focus on finding the other driver. From there, you can try to seek recovery from the driver.
If they find the other driver, you’ll see if they have insurance coverage. Unfortunately, drivers who flee often do not have sufficient auto insurance. Lack of insurance might be the actual reason they fled from your accident.
If there is no insurance, you can try suing the at-fault driver. Keep in mind that the driver might have little assets to pay you compensation. You can weigh the pros and cons with your lawyer before deciding anything specific.
Your Options If You Cannot Find the Hit and Run Driver
If you cannot find the other driver or they have no insurance, there is another option. You might be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, it will cover some of your damages.
UM/UIM coverage is not as high as regular policies. However, it can help recover some of your accident costs. If a driver flees the scene, your insurance considers them as an uninsured driver.
If you have issues with your own insurance company, call your lawyer. They can help you fight for fair compensation from your claim—even from your own auto insurance.
Talk to a Marietta Hit And Run Accident Lawyer for Free Today
After a hit and run accident, call John Foy & Associates. We have over 20 years of experience helping car accident victims. We are not afraid to fight hard for your rights. Plus, we do not charge you a fee unless we win your case.
Hit and run crashes can be incredibly frustrating. It can feel like a hopeless situation if the other driver doesn’t stay at the scene. However, don’t give up hope without speaking to a lawyer first.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. We’ll discuss the details of your accident and how we can help. There are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs. To get started for FREE today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
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