Have You Been Injured In A Hit and Run Accident?
Each year a large number of people are affected by hit and run accidents. In fact, it is estimated that more than eleven percent of all accidents that happen in the United States annually are hit and run accidents. These accidents can be devastating on a number of levels, most notably because of the serious injuries that can result.
Injuries can range from scrapes and bruises, to broken bones, brain damage, paralysis, spinal column injuries, head trauma, and even death. In many cases, the injuries are caused by the driver’s negligence. This type of negligence can be because of simply not paying attention, being distracted, talking on a cell phone, texting, or carrying out one of many different activities while behind the wheel.
A hit and run accident is defined as a precise type of accident that involves a person as well as a form of motor vehicle such as a car, truck, motorcycle, or other vehicle that does not stop after the accident has taken place. When the driver leaves the scene of the accident it impacts a number of factors, such as the police being able to complete a full investigation and collect evidence that is needed to establish fault. It also leaves the person who has been injured with the full burden of covering financial expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills and rehabilitation costs.
Hit and run accidents can then become a bit of a tricky legal matter. The person who caused the accident may not be tracked down for a while, leaving a huge burden on the injured party. Once the person is found, they will have to face civil liability for the injuries that they caused to the victim, as well as potential criminal charges for evading responsibility and fleeing the scene of a crime. The law considers these offenses quite serious in nature, and tends to hold the negligent party fully accountable as an example to others to obey the law. Some states and jurisdictions have statutes in place that felony charges on those who leave the scene of an accident that results in any type of bodily injury or death.
Injuries that result from hit and run accidents often result in personal injury claims. From here, cases often turn into civil cases to seek further damages. This allows injured parties to recoup damages from the person who is responsible for the accident for any type of property damage because of the recklessness and negligence. While important and necessary for justice to be served, it is because of this situation that cases can get quite complicated. A personal injury attorney who specializes in accident law can be a tremendous asset to help you with your case, and protect your legal rights.
Add to the already complex nature of these cases a new level of complication with the fact that the injured parties often have trouble obtaining the necessary evidence needed to successfully bring a case against the person who caused the accident. Because of all of these reasons, it becomes incredibly important to contact a personal injury attorney who is skilled in this area of the law. He or she will know exactly how to proceed, as well as locate the person or people responsible, and file a claim on your behalf. You should not delay in seeking legal assistance. Many states have strict statutes of limitations in place that must be followed or else the case will be null and void, regardless of the level of evidence presented. In order to protect yourself and your case, you should contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the hit and run accident has occurred.
If you are worried about the cost of retaining a personal injury attorney, you should know that most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis. This means that you do not have to worry about funding your claim in advance, or having to pay hefty legal bills as your case progresses through the various legal systems. A set up such as this can take a great deal off your mind, while allowing you to focus on your personal health and recovery as a professional handles your legal interests.
Personal injury attorneys will handle every aspect of your claim from the initial filing all the way through to settlement or trial. This includes having to take the case to civil court, as well as providing representation for criminal proceedings. He or she will handle all documents, collect medical records, collect evidence, contact eye witnesses, and even arrange for expert testimony if necessary. You will have great peace of mind knowing that your legal affairs are being handled by a professional who will provide the best, personal service possible.
The medical bills and other expenses that often come from hit and run accidents can be completely devastating to you and your family, and may linger for a number of years. Depending on the severity of the injuries, hospital stays may be lengthy and rehabilitation can last for months or years. This can cause extended periods of time to be missed from work, or a loss of employment completely. Monetary compensation can be sought for these expenses, as well as property damages, and in some cases pain and suffering. If you have lost a family member because of a hit and run accident, you may also be able to file a wrongful death claim on their behalf in order to seek compensation for damages and expenses accrued.
Even though personal injury attorneys cannot reverse the damages from the accident, they can help you to rebuild the broken pieces of your life by protecting your future, along with the future of your family. Since these cases often hinge completely on someone else’s negligence, it is extremely important that the party or parties who are responsible be brought to justice. This is not only important for you and your claim, but also to help protect others from having to suffer a similar experience.
