What To Do In A Hit-and-Run: Expert Car Accident Attorney
Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic experience. However, when the driver responsible for the accident flees the scene, leaving you injured and confused, it can become even more overwhelming. Hit-and-run accidents are, unfortunately, all too common, leaving victims not only with physical injuries but also with financial and legal uncertainties.
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Duluth, GA, it’s essential to know your rights and the steps you should take to protect them. As a leading Duluth car accident attorney, Kevin A. Adamson, P.C. is committed to helping victims of hit-and-run accidents navigate the complex legal landscape and secure the compensation they deserve.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without stopping to provide information or render aid to those involved. This is illegal in all states, including Georgia, where drivers are required by law to remain at the scene of an accident.
Hit-and-run accidents can involve two or more vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, or even stationary objects. The most common reason drivers flee the scene is fear of legal consequences, particularly if they were driving under the influence, had no insurance, or were engaged in illegal activity at the time of the crash.
Regardless of the reasons, leaving the scene of an accident is not only unlawful but also morally wrong, as it leaves victims without immediate help and with increased challenges in recovering compensation. Explore Hit By A Car? The Best Car Accident Lawyer Can Help for more.
Steps To Take After A Hit-and-Run Accident
If you find yourself injured in a hit-and-run accident, it’s crucial to act swiftly and strategically to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. Below are the essential steps you should take:
Call 911 Immediately
Your first priority should be your safety and the safety of anyone else involved. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Law enforcement will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and file an official accident report. This report is crucial for your insurance claim and any future legal action.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not present symptoms immediately. A medical professional will document your injuries, which will serve as critical evidence when pursuing compensation for medical bills and other damages.
Gather Evidence
If you are physically able, try to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. Take pictures of your vehicle, the surrounding area, any visible injuries, and debris left behind by the fleeing vehicle. Write down any details you remember about the hit-and-run driver, such as the make, model, color of the vehicle, and license plate number if you saw it.
If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and encourage them to speak with the police. Witness testimony can be invaluable in identifying the fleeing driver and proving your case.
Report The Accident To Your Insurance Company
After seeking medical attention and speaking with the police, you should notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run accident. Georgia law requires that drivers carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which may apply if the hit-and-run driver is not located. Filing a claim under your UM coverage can help cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other damages.
When communicating with your insurance company, it’s crucial to stick to the facts and avoid speculation. Any statements you make can be used later to challenge your claim, so it’s wise to have an attorney guide you through this process.
Contact A Duluth Car Accident Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident is complex, especially when trying to secure compensation from insurance companies or attempting to locate the responsible driver. A skilled Duluth car accident attorney, such as Kevin A. Adamson, P.C., can help you understand your legal options, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Working with an experienced lawyer significantly increases your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly, investigate the accident thoroughly, and represent your best interests in any legal proceedings.
The Importance Of Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage In Hit-and-Run Cases
In Georgia, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance. However, hit-and-run accidents often involve drivers who either don’t have insurance or who choose to flee the scene to avoid responsibility. This is where uninsured motorist (UM) coverage becomes crucial.
UM coverage is designed to protect you when the at-fault driver either has no insurance or cannot be identified, such as in a hit-and-run case. Many victims are unaware of how UM coverage works or that they may be entitled to compensation under their own insurance policy after a hit-and-run accident.
When you work with a Duluth car accident attorney like Kevin A. Adamson, P.C., they will review your insurance policy and help you understand how to utilize your UM coverage to its fullest extent. Your attorney can assist in filing a claim, negotiating with the insurance company, and ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
How Kevin A. Adamson, P.C. Can Help You After A Hit-and-Run Accident
At Kevin A. Adamson, P.C., we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a hit-and-run accident can take on your life. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to helping victims of these accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve.
Here’s how we can assist you:
Thorough Investigation
Our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation of your hit-and-run accident. This may include gathering evidence from the scene, obtaining witness statements, reviewing traffic camera footage, and working with law enforcement to identify the fleeing driver. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice for you.
Handling Insurance Claims
Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating and confusing, especially after a traumatic event like a hit-and-run accident. We will handle all communications with your insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected and that your claim is processed efficiently. If your claim is denied or undervalued, we’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Filing A Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the hit-and-run driver is identified and located, we can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against them to recover compensation for your injuries and other losses. Even if the driver is not found, we will explore all avenues for compensation, including pursuing a claim under your UM coverage.
Maximizing Compensation
Our primary goal is to help you recover full and fair compensation for all your damages. This includes not only medical bills and property damage but also lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any long-term consequences of your injuries.
Providing Compassionate Legal Guidance
We understand that being involved in a hit-and-run accident is a distressing experience. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and personalized legal representation to help you through this difficult time. We will keep you informed every step of the way, answer all of your questions, and provide the support you need to focus on your recovery.
Why Choose Kevin A. Adamson, P.C.?
When you need a Duluth car accident attorney who is experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case, Kevin A. Adamson, P.C. is here for you. We have a proven track record of success in handling car accident cases, including hit-and-run accidents, and we are committed to fighting for the rights of our clients.
Our legal team offers:
- Decades of Experience: With years of experience in personal injury law, we understand the complexities of car accident cases, including those involving hit-and-run drivers.
- Personalized Attention: We treat every case with the individualized attention it deserves. You won’t be just another case number – we’ll work closely with you to understand your needs and tailor our approach to achieve the best results.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This ensures that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Conclusion
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Duluth, GA, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Kevin A. Adamson, P.C., your trusted Duluth car accident attorney, to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.
