A hit-and-run accident can easily become a terrifying and upsetting experience. Being struck by a vehicle and left behind can leave you with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and uncertainty about your next steps.
Forbes notes that in 2022, 67,336 car crashes resulted in pedestrian injuries and 7,522 fatal pedestrian accidents. Among the 7,522 pedestrians who lost their lives, 1,910—about 25%—were victims of hit-and-run incidents. This emphasizes how critical it is to address and raise roadway pedestrian safety.
The chaos of the accident, coupled with the driver fleeing the scene, complicates the recovery process. To make sure your rights and well-being are safeguarded, it is essential to know how to handle the fallout of a situation like this.
In this article, we’ll outline essential steps to take following a hit-and-run, offering guidance on immediate actions, legal considerations, and managing recovery.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Incident
The first thing to do after a hit-and-run is to seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel severely injured. FMPM mentions that after a car accident, it’s not uncommon for injuries to show up days or even hours later. This delayed onset means you might start experiencing symptoms 24 to 48 hours after the incident.
Watch out for signs like dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), neck and back pain, and fatigue. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly to address potential issues before they worsen.
Calling emergency services should be your next priority; they can assist with medical care and start an investigation into the accident. If you can, try to learn as much as you can about the car that hit you, including the make, model, and color. Take pictures of the situation, your wounds, and any damage to the property. It might be necessary to record these details to support legal action and insurance claims.
Understanding Your Legal Rights and Options
Knowing your legal rights after a hit-and-run is important. If the driver cannot be located, you might be able to file a claim with your insurer. Medical costs and losses may be covered by this kind of claim.
TorHoerman Law recommends that you contact a personal injury attorney. They can assist you navigate the legal system, understand your alternatives, and argue on your behalf. If the driver is identified later, you may have grounds to pursue a claim against them directly.
The Independent reported a hit-and-run in Chicago involving 20-year-old Condelarious Garcia in June 2023. Garcia faces multiple charges after a collision outside Guaranteed Rate Field injured four pedestrians, two critically. He faces charges of driving on a suspended license, extremely reckless driving, and failing to report the crash, all of which are offenses.
These are the kinds of incidents where a local lawyer can be particularly valuable. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal proceedings, especially when dealing with a hit-and-run. A personal injury lawyer from Chicago in the aforementioned incident can offer valuable assistance.
Managing Recovery and Seeking Support
Recovering from a hit-and-run involves both physical and emotional healing. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice for medical treatment and rehabilitation. Consider seeking support from a counselor or therapist to address any emotional trauma or stress resulting from the accident.
MedicineNet mentions that emotional trauma can linger anywhere from a few days to several months. While some people recover within days or weeks, others might face longer-lasting effects. Even after the initial symptoms have faded, painful memories or strong emotions can resurface, often triggered by specific events or reminders.
Joining a support group for accident survivors can also provide comfort and guidance. Additionally, staying organized with medical records, insurance documents, and accident reports will help manage your recovery and any legal or insurance processes. Taking care of your mental health is as important as your physical recovery, and seeking support can make a significant difference in your well-being.
FAQs
What is the meaning of a hit-and-run case?
When a driver in an accident flees the scene without giving their contact information or helping the injured, it is known as a hit-and-run. This unlawful activity hinders accountability and makes the pursuit of justice and recompense more difficult. Because of the damage they do to the victims, hit-and-run instances are regarded as serious offenses.
What happens after a hit-and-run case?
After a hit-and-run, the police investigate to identify the responsible driver and gather evidence. If the driver cannot be located, victims may have to make a claim with their insurance. Getting legal counsel and medical treatment is essential for handling injuries and negotiating the claims procedure.
What is the liability for hit-and-run cases?
In hit-and-run cases, the responsible driver faces legal liability for leaving the scene and may be charged with crimes such as failure to report an accident. If the driver gets caught, victims can pursue legal recourse or reimbursement through the insurance company. Liability extends to covering medical costs, damages, and legal penalties.
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident is a traumatic experience that can have far-reaching consequences. While the immediate aftermath is often chaotic, understanding your rights and taking proactive steps can significantly impact the recovery process. For both physical and mental healing, getting medical help, assembling evidence, and speaking with legal experts is crucial.
The concerning data on pedestrian crashes emphasizes the necessity of increased traffic safety and harsher punishments for hit-and-run drivers. Ultimately, victims should prioritize their well-being, knowing that they have options to pursue justice and compensation while rebuilding their lives.