Hit & Run Accident
Car accidents are unfortunate instances. You must exchange information with the other driver, call the police, report the accident to your insurance company, and so on. Now imagine that you have property damage and injuries, but the other driver is nowhere to be found. These are known as hit and run accidents, and they make the post-accident process unnecessarily complicated. Recovering the compensation you’re due can seem impossible when you have no one to hold responsible for your damages. Improve your chances of a successful personal injury claim with the help of an attorney.
The Fort Lauderdale hit and run accident lawyers at Salpeter Gitkin, LLP are experienced personal injury attorneys who can help you navigate the complex system of personal injury claims. We can take the proper action to help identify the liable party and ensure that all of your accident-related damages are covered.
Types of Hit & Run Accidents
Hit and run accidents are all stressful instances but can occur in a number of ways. The only constant is that the individual responsible for the accident leaves the scene before the authorities arrive. Some of the most common types of hit and run accidents in Fort Lauderdale include:
- Parking Lot Accidents: These type of collisions usually occur when your vehicle is parked and is struck by another driver either pulling out of or into their parking space. No matter the amount of damage caused by the accident, the driver must remain at the scene. The only exception is if the driver responsible leaves their information and files a police report.
- Open Road Collisions: These accidents occur on the roadway involving two or more vehicles, but one of the drivers leaves the scene before authorities arrive. In some cases, they do so right away while in other instances, they’ll come out of their car, assess the damage, then leave.
Both instances are considered hit and run accidents, but just because the other driver leaves the scene doesn’t mean that you can’t take action. There are a few things you should do after a hit and run accident to ensure that you retain your right to file a personal injury claim.
What to do After a Hit & Run Accident
Do not leave the scene after realizing that you’ve been involved in a hit and run accident. Remain at the scene and call the police. If there are any witnesses, gather their information and statements regarding what occurred. As you wait for the authorities to arrive, you should take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area like a nearby intersection.
In the event you’re severely injured, your only concern should be getting medical attention. The police will talk to witnesses and file an official report of the accident while you receive treatment. After being treated for any injuries and reporting the accident to your insurance company, you should get in touch with a personal injury lawyer to learn about your financial recovery options.
Recoverable Damages in a Hit & Run Accident
As a car accident victim, you have the right to pursue compensation for damages resulting from the negligence of a third party. Florida is a no-fault state, meaning that you will initially have to go through your personal injury protection for compensation. However, if your damages exceed your coverage amount, you can file a claim against the liable party for:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Medical equipment
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning ability
- Loss of consortium
- … and much more
The Fort Lauderdale hit and run accident lawyers at Salpeter Gitkin, LLP have experience helping accident victims recover the compensation they’re entitled to by law and we can do the same for you. Contact us today at (954) 467-8622 for a free case evaluation.
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