Hit-and-run accidents can be emotionally and physically devastating, leaving you with injuries, damages, and a sense of injustice. These incidents should be taken seriously, and you must understand your rights and options if you are in this situation. Seeking the guidance of a Mt. Pleasant hit-and-run accident lawyer can help put you on the right path to making sure you are taking the right steps.
At Shelly Leeke Law, our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to supporting you on your journey to potential justice. We understand the challenges you face and have a Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyer who can help take some of the overwhelm off you by being by your side. It’s important that you know you have rights when you get hurt by someone else’s negligence.
Common Reasons People Flee the Scene
In hit-and-run accidents, the at-fault driver leaves the scene without providing any information or assistance to the other party. While this behavior is illegal and unethical, there are various reasons why someone might flee the scene of an accident. Some of the most common reasons people flee the scene of an accident include:
- Lack of insurance or a suspended license
- Fear of legal consequences, especially if driving under the influence
- Panic or shock leading to poor decision-making
- Outstanding warrants or previous legal issues
- Driving a stolen vehicle or engaging in other illegal activities
It’s important to note that regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is never justified. Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense in South Carolina and those who do so face serious legal consequences. After being involved in a hit-and-run accident, providing all the information you can is crucial, as this can aid in the investigation and help hold them accountable for their actions. Contact our personal injury lawyer in Mt. Pleasant for more detailed information on your case.
What You Should Do After a Hit and Run
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, prioritizing your safety and well-being should be your top concern. If you or anyone else involved in the accident requires medical attention, call 911 immediately. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, get a medical evaluation, as some symptoms may not appear until later.
After ensuring everyone’s safety, report the incident to the police and provide them with as much information as possible about the at-fault driver and their vehicle. Details such as the make, model, color, and license plate number can be incredibly helpful in identifying the responsible party. If there were any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information, as their testimony may be valuable in supporting your case.
If you can, document the accident scene thoroughly by taking photos of any damage to your vehicle, the surrounding area, and your injuries, if visible. Note the date, time, location, and weather conditions at the time of the incident. Keep copies of all medical records, police reports, and repair bills related to the accident, as these will be essential when seeking compensation for your damages.
Potential Damages to Recover
In a hit-and-run accident, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages, depending on the specifics of your case. These damages can help compensate you for the losses and challenges you’ve experienced due to the incident. By working with a hit-and-run accident attorney in Mt. Pleasant, you can identify and possibly pursue damages available to you, such as:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgery costs, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from working
- Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional
- Property damage, such as vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Punitive damages in cases where the at-fault driver’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious
It’s important to remember that every hit-and-run case is unique. The damages you can recover will depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the available insurance coverage. An attorney can help you assess the potential value of your claim and go after the compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries
Hit-and-run accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting or even permanent consequences. Understanding the types of injuries commonly associated with these incidents can help you recognize the importance of seeking prompt medical attention and legal representation. Some of the most common injuries sustained in hit-and-run accidents include:
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Lacerations, bruises, and contusions
- Emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Medical attention should be your first step when you can get it. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately but can have long-term consequences if left untreated. By getting a thorough medical evaluation and following your doctor’s recommended treatment plan, you can help ensure the best possible recovery and strengthen your legal case.
What Often Goes into an Investigation
Investigating a hit-and-run accident can be a complex and time-consuming process, requiring the expertise of experienced professionals. Law enforcement officers and insurance adjusters will typically gather evidence from the accident scene, interview witnesses, and review any available surveillance footage or dashcam recordings. They may also analyze vehicle damage, skid marks, and debris patterns to reconstruct the events leading up to the incident.
In some cases, the investigation may involve the use of advanced technology. This could include license plate readers or cell phone tracking to help identify the at-fault driver. Investigators may also work with local body shops and auto parts suppliers to determine if anyone has recently sought repairs for damage consistent with the accident.
You can assist in the investigation by providing any information about the at-fault driver or their vehicle. Any contact information for witnesses who may have seen the incident will also be highly valuable. Cooperating fully with law enforcement and your insurance company can help expedite the investigation process and increase the chances of holding the responsible party accountable.
How to Document Injuries
Documenting your injuries is a crucial step in building a strong case after a hit-and-run accident. Start by seeking medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don’t believe your injuries are severe. This ensures that you receive the treatment you need and creates an official record of your injuries and their connection to the accident.
Keep detailed notes about your symptoms and pain levels. You should also include any limitations or challenges you experience as a result of your injuries. Take photos of any visible injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or casting, and keep a record of all medical appointments, prescriptions, and treatment expenses.
Another wise move is to keep a journal detailing how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Be sure to include missed work, canceled plans, and emotional struggles. This information can be valuable when seeking compensation for pain and suffering or other non-economic damages.
How the Severity of an Injury Impacts a Claim
The severity of your injuries can significantly impact the value of your hit-and-run accident claim. In general, more severe injuries lead to higher medical expenses, longer recovery times, and greater impacts on your quality of life. This can often lead to larger settlements or jury awards.
For example, a minor injury like a sprained ankle may only require a few doctor visits and a short period of rest. A situation like this may result in a relatively small claim. On the other hand, a severe injury like a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care, leading to a much larger claim.
It’s important to work with a hit-and-run accident lawyer in Mt. Pleasant who can help you fully assess the value of your claim based on the specifics of your injuries and their impact on your life. They can gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and negotiate with insurance companies. Having the right legal representation by your side can increase the chances of potential compensation and can discuss how long a car accident claim can take to settle.
When You Don’t Have Proof of Who Hit You
If you don’t have concrete proof of who hit you in a hit-and-run accident, pursuing a claim can be more challenging but not impossible. In these cases, it’s essential to work with an experienced attorney who can help you explore all available options for seeking compensation.
One potential avenue is to file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage if you have it. This coverage can provide compensation for your damages when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks sufficient insurance.
Your Mt. Pleasant hit-and-run accident attorney can also work with law enforcement and private investigators to gather evidence and build a case, even without direct proof. They may be able to identify the at-fault driver through witness statements, surveillance footage, or other investigative techniques. This can increase your chances of holding them accountable and recovering the compensation you are seeking.
Time Limits to File a Claim
When considering filing a hit-and-run accident claim in South Carolina, it’s crucial to be aware of the time limits set by the state’s statutes of limitations. These laws dictate the timeframe within which you must take legal action, and failure to do so can result in losing your right to seek compensation. In most personal injury cases, including hit-and-run accidents, the statute of limitations in South Carolina is three years from the date of your accident.
You have a three-year window from the date of your hit-and-run to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, according to the South Carolina Code of Laws. If you attempt to file a lawsuit after this three-year period has passed, the court will likely not even take your case, and you’ll be barred from seeking compensation through the legal system. This is why you must act promptly and get legal representation as soon as possible after the incident.
An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, ensure that you understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case, and work diligently to file all necessary paperwork within the appropriate time limits. You can protect your right to pursue the compensation you desire and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Don’t put off taking action, as the time left on your claim starts decreasing the moment after the hit-and-run occurs.
Why a Mt. Pleasant Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer at Shelly Leeke Law Can Help Your Case
At Shelly Leeke Law, our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to helping those affected by hit-and-run accidents in Mt. Pleasant and throughout South Carolina. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you may be facing, and we’re here to provide the legal representation you need to seek justice and fair compensation. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of South Carolina’s hit-and-run laws and the strategies needed to build strong cases on behalf of our clients.
We work hard to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights in court when necessary. Our team is committed to conducting thorough investigations, collaborating with expert witnesses, and utilizing cutting-edge technology to strengthen your case. With our client-focused approach and commitment to excellence, you can trust that your case is in the right hands.
We’ll help you through every step of this process, keeping you informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your future. Our hit-and-run accident attorneys in Mt. Pleasant will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide you with the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. When you choose Shelly Leeke Law, you can have confidence that your case will receive the personalized attention and dedicated advocacy it deserves.
Contact a Mt. Pleasant Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney
During your consultation, we’ll listen to your story, assess the details of your case, and give you honest, straightforward guidance on your best options for moving forward. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let a hit-and-run driver get away with causing you injuries. Take action today and contact us to get started with a free consultation.
