Everyone knows that you stop and exchange contact information after a car accident. Not only is it the law, but it is also the ethical thing to do. Unfortunately, some people attempt to evade responsibility for an accident by speeding off from the scene – even if the crash caused injuries. If you or a loved one were hurt in a hit-and-run in Illinois, a personal injury attorney can help you pursue compensation for your damages. You may be entitled to compensation even if the other driver is never located and brought to justice.
Legal Options for Hit and Run Accident Victims
If you were hurt in a hit-and-run accident, law enforcement may be able to locate the driver who caused the crash. Evidence like vehicle debris, traffic camera footage, and witness statements may lead police to the culprit. At this point, you may be able to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, many drivers who commit hit-and-run accidents are never located. Furthermore, some drivers are underinsured or drive without insurance in violation of Illinois law.
If the at-fault driver cannot be located or the driver has no insurance, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is intended for just this purpose. Unfortunately, getting the compensation you need from your insurance company may be an uphill battle. Many insurance companies are focused on the bottom line which means that they offer injured parties much less than they need to cover injury-related expenses.
Building a Persuasive Claim and Representing Your Best Interests
A personal injury attorney experienced in hit-and-run cases can represent you during the insurance claims process. Your lawyer’s job is to build the strongest case possible and advocate on your behalf. To get an adequate settlement or award from your insurance company, you will need sufficient evidence of the other driver’s liability, your injuries, and the damages you suffered because of the accident. An experienced attorney can help you obtain this evidence and use it effectively during your case.
Most car accident injury claims settle out of court. A skilled attorney can represent you during settlement negotiations and make sure that you do not settle for less than you deserve. The last thing you need when recovering from painful injuries is to deal with settlement negotiations, paperwork, deadlines, and shifty insurance company tactics. When you hire a competent lawyer to represent you during your hit-and-run case, you know that you have someone representing your best interests and fighting on your behalf.
Contact a Crystal Lake Hit-and-Run Lawyer
If you or a loved one were injured in a hit-and-run accident, contact [[title]] for help. Our McHenry County personal injury attorneys can provide the aggressive advocacy and legal support you need. Call [[phone]] for a free consultation.
Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=021500050K143a-2