Being involved in a car accident is a stressful experience, but it becomes even more overwhelming when the driver responsible speeds off without stopping.
Auto accidents like a hit-and-run incident can leave you shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress are common psychological consequences of such an accident. Neck injuries are also common if you find yourself involved in this kind of accident.
The immediate aftermath of such an accident, however, is more challenging than anything else. After all, instead of stopping to help, the culprit just drove off.
That being said, taking swift legal action against them is crucial, no matter how fast they try to run or where they try to hide.
What to Do Immediately After the Hit-and-Run
When you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, the first thing to focus on is your safety and health. If you can, make your way to a safe spot away from traffic. It’s super important to check for injuries and call emergency services right away.
The sooner you get checked out, the better it is for both your health and any legal case you might be dealing with.
Lawyering Up
Once you’ve handled the immediate aftermath of the hit-and-run, your next step is to contact a car accident lawyer. Navigating the aftermath of an auto accident can get really tricky, especially if the other driver decides to take off.
A hit-and-run is not just a traffic violation; it’s a serious offense. It can lead to severe consequences for the at-fault driver if they are caught. The culprit might even face imprisonment or fines amounting to anything between $5,000 and $20,000.
However, identifying the driver can be challenging. A lawyer can help by working with investigators, reviewing surveillance footage, and examining any other evidence that could help track down the individual responsible.
Just this October, a pedestrian passed away after being involved in a hit-and-run in Austin. Two vehicles were involved in this accident, and while one of them stayed to cooperate with the cops, the other ran away.
Had the person been alive, an Austin car accident injury lawyer might have taken up the case to secure just compensation for them. Right now, however, unintentional vehicular manslaughter might be looked into and a criminal lawyer can take over the case. Whatever it may be, the role of a lawyer in such hit-and-run cases, especially when the culprit runs away, can’t be ignored.
According to Loewy Law Firm, accident lawyers will help you file personal injury claims for any damages you’ve suffered. It’s essential to act quickly because there are legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit after an accident.
Dealing with Medical Bills and Long-Term Costs
If you’ve been injured in the hit-and-run, you’ll likely face bills for emergency care, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and possibly surgeries or long-term treatment. Medical bills can quickly pile up. Without the ability to hold the at-fault driver immediately accountable, it can feel like you’re stuck with the burden.
This is where filing personal injury claims and a potential settlement becomes critical. Your lawyer will work to ensure that you are compensated for current medical expenses and for any future costs related to your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it illegal to run away after hitting someone with your car?
Absolutely. It’s illegal to just take off after hitting someone with your car. That’s called a hit-and-run, and it’s a serious crime in most places. Drivers have a legal duty to stop, help out, and report the accident to the authorities.
Can you be jailed for hitting someone with your car?
Yes, you could definitely end up in jail for hitting someone with your car, especially depending on the situation. If the accident causes injury or even death, and it looks like reckless driving or negligence was involved, jail time is a real possibility. Plus, if you flee the scene or commit a hit-and-run, the legal consequences can be pretty severe, including the risk of imprisonment.
How can a lawyer help the victim in a hit-and-run case?
A lawyer can assist a hit-and-run victim by helping to gather evidence, file claims, and represent their interests in court. They can negotiate with insurance companies and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Additionally, lawyers ensure the responsible party is held accountable.
Being a victim of a hit-and-run is definitely frustrating and scary, but you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right legal support, you can ensure that the person responsible is held accountable for their actions. At the very least, you’ll want to get the compensation you need to help you move on with your life.