As a victim of a hit-and-run accident in St. Louis, you have legal rights and options to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling vulnerable, angry, and confused. After a driver flees the scene, victims are often left to deal with vehicle damage, potential injuries, and the question of how to pursue justice. However, if you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run accident in St. Louis, you have rights and legal options to ensure you are compensated for your losses.
At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we specialize in helping victims of hit-and-run accidents understand their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.
What is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop, provide information, or offer assistance as required by Missouri law. This applies to accidents involving other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or property. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious crime in Missouri, and the responsible party can face severe legal consequences if caught.
What Should You Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, taking the following steps can protect your rights and increase the chances of catching the fleeing driver:
- Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately.
- Gather Information: Try to remember any details about the fleeing vehicle, such as the make, model, color, or license plate number. Additionally, note the direction the driver fled and any other distinguishing features that might help identify them.
- Report the Accident to the Police: Call the police and file a report as soon as possible. A detailed police report can help any future legal action or insurance claims.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle’s damage, and any other relevant details. Gather witness information, if available, as their testimony could be crucial in the investigation.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not manifest immediately, even if you feel fine. A thorough medical examination will ensure your health and provide documentation of any injuries related to the accident.
How Can You Seek Compensation After a Hit-and-Run in St. Louis?
Missouri law allows victims of hit-and-run accidents to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Here’s how you can proceed:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: In Missouri, drivers must carry uninsured motorist coverage, which can provide compensation if the hit-and-run driver is never found. This coverage can cover medical expenses and other damages caused by the accident.
- Collision Insurance: If you have collision insurance, it can help pay for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of whether the hit-and-run driver is found. Remember, however, that you may still be responsible for your deductible.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Though not required in Missouri, PIP coverage can help cover medical expenses and lost wages after an accident, regardless of fault.
- Identifying the Hit-and-Run Driver: If the driver who fled the scene is located, you may pursue a personal injury claim or lawsuit against them. This can allow you to recover compensation for all your losses, including medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
Why You Need a St. Louis Hit-and-Run Attorney
Dealing with a hit-and-run accident can be legally complex and emotionally draining. An experienced attorney at The Hoffmann Law Firm can help ensure you understand your rights and explore all avenues of compensation. Our legal team can assist with:
- Thorough Investigation: We work with law enforcement, review evidence, and seek out witnesses to identify the responsible party if possible.
- Insurance Claims: We help you navigate your insurance policies, including uninsured motorist claims, to maximize your compensation.
- Legal Representation: If the at-fault driver is found, we pursue personal injury claims on your behalf, ensuring you receive compensation for medical bills, property damage, and other losses.
Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm for Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, you don’t have to face it alone. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we have over 20 years of experience fighting for the rights of car accident victims in St. Louis. We understand the complexities of hit-and-run cases and are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Free Consultation with a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free; you don’t pay unless we get you money!