When someone causes an accident and leaves the scene before exchanging information or before the police arrive, it is known as a hit-and-run. State law requires that a driver stays at the scene of a crash until the police arrive, and a driver who flees at the scene may face criminal charges and civil liability.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run crash, you deserve fair compensation for your damages incurred. A Boulder hit-and-run accident lawyer could investigate the accident, speak with police and witnesses, and pursue all possible avenues of recovery. Call today to speak with a seasoned vehicle wreck attorney about your case.
People may leave the scene of an accident for a variety of reasons. At-fault drivers could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol and may not want to face the legal consequences if they stay. Generally, a motorist who leaves the scene may feel that they have something to hide, which would get them into some serious legal trouble. Drivers involved in an accident where another party fled the scene should contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Hit-and-run collisions are unique when it comes to proving fault. If law enforcement locates the fleeing driver, they may face criminal charges and other factors that affect liability. When someone is injured by a motorist who flees the scene, this can cause added stress to the situation. In these cases, aggravated liability may be invoked upon the driver, which could lead to a higher damages award because the crime is reckless in nature.
If the hit-and-run driver is not found, injured parties must rely on their own insurance policy for compensation. This type of coverage is called uninsured motorist coverage, and it is vital to have. An attorney with experience handling hit-and-run accidents will usually know what to look for in terms of insurance coverage and could work with insurance adjusters on behalf of an injured driver in Boulder.
Following a hit-and-run collision, individuals should call the police, contact their own insurance company, and reach out to a skilled local attorney as soon as possible. Law enforcement will properly document the accident and collect necessary evidence. Emergency medical services will treat and record injuries, which is important when pursuing a hit-and-run claim because the severity of injuries could impact the damages amount.
Reaching out to a knowledgeable attorney in the area as soon as possible after a hit-and-run collision is crucial. A lawyer could investigate the accident and begin the process of filing a compensation claim.
Those injured in hit-and-run crashes may be eligible for multiple types of compensation from the other driver’s insurer or their own uninsured motorist coverage. Potential damages include:
Injured parties may also be able to pursue a civil claim in addition to the damages they receive from an insurer. A civil claim allows one to hold the at-fault driver directly responsible for their actions and seek maximum compensation. A skilled attorney in Boulder could help someone injured in a hit-and-run incident deal with insurance adjusters and determine whether a civil claim is in their best interest.
Hit-and-run collisions can be tricky to handle, especially if the at-fault motorist is never caught. Medical bills, vehicle damage, and life-altering injuries are enough to deal with without an added legal headache.
Fortunately, you do not have to face this process alone. A dedicated Boulder hit-and-run accident lawyer could act as your legal advocate through this process, dealing with insurance adjusters, speaking with witnesses, collecting evidence, and pursuing the compensation that you deserve. Call today to learn more.
