I Was Involved in a Hit and Run. Do I Still Have a Case?
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be an incredibly stressful experience. Not only are you dealing with the shock and potential injuries from the accident, but you're also left wondering about your legal rights and next steps.
If you’re in Georgia and find yourself in this unfortunate situation, I’m here to help you understand your position and what you can do moving forward.
What Is a Hit and Run?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing their contact information or assisting the injured parties. This act is illegal and can complicate the process of obtaining compensation for damages or injuries.
In many jurisdictions, including Georgia, the law mandates that drivers must stop immediately at the scene of an accident, exchange relevant information like name and insurance details, and render aid if necessary. Failing to do so can result in severe penalties, such as fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.
Do You Still Have a Case?
Yes, you still have a case, even if the driver who hit you fled the scene. The process may be a tad more challenging, but you have several options to pursue compensation.
Collect Evidence
After ensuring your safety and contacting the police, gather as much information as possible at the scene. Try to note the following:
The make, model, and color of the car that hit you
The license plate number or partial number if you can remember it
Any distinguishing features of the vehicle or driver
Contact information from any witnesses
The time and location of the accident
Photos or videos of the scene, your vehicle, and any visible damages
Weather and road conditions at the time of the incident
A detailed account of how the accident occurred
Any statements made by the driver before fleeing (if applicable)
Surveillance footage from nearby cameras, if available
This information may be helpful in identifying the at-fault driver.
Report the Accident
Immediately report the accident to the police. A police report will be crucial for your insurance claim and legal action. The police will document the incident and start an investigation to locate the hit-and-run driver.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company immediately to report the accident. Your policy might include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can help cover your expenses if the at-fault driver cannot be identified.
Seek Medical Attention
You must seek medical attention immediately after the accident. You may feel okay but some injuries do not present symptoms right away. Medical records are valuable evidence if you need to file a personal injury claim.
Consult a Lawyer
An experienced personal injury lawyer will help you understand your rights and options. Find a lawyer experienced in dealing with hit-and-run cases to guide you through the legal process.
Hit and Run Laws in Georgia
In Georgia, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense. According to Georgia Code § 40-6-270, a driver involved in an accident that resulted in injury, death, or vehicle damage must stop and remain at the scene until they have provided their information and rendered reasonable assistance to any injured parties.
Failing to do so can result in severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and license suspension.
Georgia law also requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage. This can protect you if the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
Do These Things Right Away
Here’s what you should do in the aftermath of the accident:
Keep all records related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and communication with insurance companies.
Stay in touch with the investigating officers to get updates on the status of your case.
Comply with all legal and insurance requirements to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
Seek legal advice to increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Document your physical and emotional well-being following the accident. Keeping a daily log of your pain levels, medical treatments, and how the injury affects your daily activities can be valuable evidence in your case.
Avoid posting details about the accident on social media. Insurance companies and opposing parties may use your posts against you to minimize the extent of your injuries or damages.
Save all receipts for any out-of-pocket costs related to the accident, such as transportation to medical appointments, rental car fees, and over-the-counter medications.
Follow through with all recommended treatments and attend all medical appointments. Gaps in your treatment can be used to argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.
Save all accident-related documents, records, and correspondence in a dedicated folder or digital file where you can access them easily.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer in Atlanta, Georgia
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia, reach out to Kyle H. Jarzmik Law. With my background and dedication to my clients, I can help you every step of the way.
Call today to discuss your case and explore your options and how my experience can aid in your attempts for justice. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, I serve clients throughout the state of Georgia including Fulton County, Cobb County, Dekalb County, Gwinnett County, Forsyth County, Douglas County, Coweta County, Carroll County, Lawrenceville, and Cumming.