A hit-and-run car accident can be dramatically more challenging to deal with than a regular car accident. When a person is injured in an auto accident and does not have the cooperation of the person who hit them, the injured victim will often have to work much harder to recover compensation for the damages caused. If you have been hurt due to someone else’s negligence during a hit-and-run accident, read on to learn your options for receiving compensation.
Finding Out Who is Responsible for the Accident
Ideally, someone who is involved in a hit-and-run accident will have an opportunity to gather information about the driver responsible for the crash. Making note of the make, model, or color of the vehicle that hit you can help law enforcement find and prosecute the negligent driver. Even a partial license plate number can be beneficial to police as they search for the person who hit you. However, it is very important that you do not attempt to chase or otherwise pursue the other driver in a hit-and-run. Doing so can cause you to be further injured or criminally responsible.
When the Other Driver Cannot Be Found or Is Uninsured
Illinois law mandates that anyone who operates a motor vehicle on the state’s roads and highways must carry liability insurance. Unfortunately, a driver who causes an accident may not have the required insurance, which could prompt the at-fault driver to flee the scene before his or her identity can be discovered. In this scenario, bringing a personal injury claim against the negligent driver may be impossible. Illinois motor vehicle liability insurance policies include mandatory minimum coverage for any damage or injury that is caused by an uninsured motorist. Hit-and-run accidents are usually covered under this uninsured motorist coverage, but insurance companies often try to minimize payout amounts for injuries. If this happens, there may still be a way to recover full compensation by bringing a claim against your car insurance company.
Illinois Car Accident Injury Lawyers
If you have been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, our firm can help. We will conduct a thorough investigation of the circumstances of your accident and help you take the necessary action to collect the compensation you deserve. To discuss your auto accident injury claim with the experienced Wheaton personal injury attorneys at Walsh, Knippen & Cetina, Chartered, contact us today for a free consultation and case evaluation. Call us at 630-462-1980 to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/vsd361.pdf
https://www.dmv.org/tips-for-handling-a-hit-and-run-driver-claim.php
