Whether you need a lawyer after a hit-and-run accident is a question many victims ask when facing this traumatic situation. In Metairie, LA, hit-and-run accidents are one of the most common types of car accidents and can leave victims confused about their legal rights and options. These incidents often involve complex insurance issues and criminal investigations that require professional guidance.
Keep reading to learn more.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver leaves the scene without providing contact information or helping injured victims. These incidents can encompass collisions between vehicles, accidents involving pedestrians, or damage to property.
Louisiana law generally requires drivers to stop and exchange information after an accident. Leaving the scene is a criminal offense that can result in serious penalties for the at-fault driver.
The immediate aftermath of a hit-and-run often leaves victims feeling helpless and uncertain. Many people don’t know what steps to take or how to protect their legal rights in these situations.
The Value of Legal Representation
Several factors make legal representation crucial after hit-and-run accidents. The complexity of these cases often requires professional expertise to achieve fair outcomes.
A number of factors that you should consider include:
- Serious injuries: Medical bills and lost wages can quickly become overwhelming without proper legal guidance.
- Unidentified drivers: When the at-fault driver cannot be located, insurance claims become more complicated.
- Insurance disputes: Hit-and-run victims may find that insurance companies attempt to deny their claims or propose insufficient settlements.
An experienced attorney can help navigate these challenges and protect your financial interests throughout the process.
Immediate Steps to Take After A Hit-and-Run Accident
Taking proper action immediately after a hit-and-run accident can significantly impact your case. Quick thinking and documentation help preserve evidence and strengthen potential claims.
Follow these important steps at the scene:
- Call 911: Report the accident to the police and request medical attention if needed.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
- Find witnesses: Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident occur.
- Record the details: Write down everything you remember about the other vehicle and driver.
Even minor details can help police identify the hit-and-run driver later. Time is critical in these investigations, so acting quickly improves your chances of a successful outcome.
Insurance Complications In Hit-And-Run Cases
Hit-and-run accidents create unique insurance challenges that can be difficult to navigate alone. Understanding your coverage options helps ensure you receive proper compensation for your losses.
Insurance coverage may come from different sources:
- Uninsured motorist coverage: This protects you when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance.
- Personal injury protection: This covers medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident.
- Collision coverage: This pays for vehicle repairs even when the other driver is unknown.
Always review your policy details and consult with an attorney to understand your specific coverage.
The Criminal Investigation Process
Hit-and-run accidents trigger criminal investigations that run parallel to civil insurance claims. Understanding this process helps victims know what to expect and how they can assist.
Police investigations typically involve:
- The collection of evidence: Officers can gather physical evidence, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Public appeals: Law enforcement may ask the public for help in identifying the suspect vehicle.
- Follow-up investigations: Detectives will continue searching for leads even after the initial report.
Victims should remain in contact with the investigating officers and provide any additional information they recall. Sometimes, details that seem unimportant initially can help solve the case.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Louisiana?
Most personal injury lawsuits have a two-year statute of limitations. However, hit-and-run cases may have different rules depending on when the at-fault driver is identified.
Missing these deadlines can permanently eliminate your right to seek compensation. This is another important reason to consult with an attorney quickly after the accident.
Contact a Metairie Car Accident Lawyer at Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you were hurt in a hit-and-run accident in Metairie, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming these cases can be — from medical bills to uncooperative insurance companies. Our experienced Metairie car accident attorneys will investigate your case, fight to recover your economic and non-economic losses, and guide you through both the civil and criminal processes.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can protect your rights after a hit-and-run.
For more information, please contact the experienced [GEO] [PRACTICE AREA] lawyers at Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers today. We offer an initial free consultation.
We proudly serve Louisiana and it’s surrounding areas, including Metairie, Gretna and Kenner.
Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers
3500 N Hullen St Suite 17K
Metairie, LA 70002
(504) 323-6000
Our law firm is located near you. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 30.01245719602678, -90.15811234232851
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