Car accidents are common in North Charleston, South Carolina, and unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are not an exception. When you are the victim, it can be a terrifying and frustrating experience. The person who caused the accident left the scene, and you are left to deal with the consequences on your own.
Hit-and-run accidents can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and even death. A North Charleston car accident attorney from Shelly Leeke Law Firm can help you understand the legal process and help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Victims of hit-and-run accidents need the help of an experienced North Charleston personal injury lawyer.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run car accident is when one driver flees the scene and does not provide their contact information, insurance information, or any other information necessary to file a claim or contact them. Hit-and-run accidents are illegal, and the driver who caused the accident can be charged with a criminal offense.
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, hit-and-run accidents have increased in recent years. Hit-and-run accidents can happen for many reasons, but the driver’s fear of getting caught is the most common. Drivers without a license or driving a stolen vehicle may be more likely to leave the scene of an accident.
What to Do if You Are the Victim of a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you find yourself the victim of a hit-and-run accident, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your rights:
- Call the police: If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, you should call the police immediately. The police will take a report of the accident and investigate to try and identify the driver who caused the accident.
- Seek medical attention: Do not hesitate to receive medical attention. Even if you do not feel injured, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional as some injuries may not be apparent immediately, and delaying medical attention can make it harder to show that your injuries were caused by the accident.
- Gather evidence: If you can, gather as much information about the accident as possible, including taking pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the scene of the accident, getting the contact information of any witnesses, and writing down any details you remember about the other vehicle, such as the make, model, and license plate number.
- Contact a hit-and-run accident attorney: Contact a hit-and-run accident attorney as soon as possible. A skilled and knowledgeable attorney can help you understand the legal system and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
How a Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney Can Help
In South Carolina, there are approximately 30,000 hit-and-run crashes annually, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety. A North Charleston hit-and-run accident lawyer can assist victims of hit-and-run accidents. Here are some ways that an attorney can help:
- Investigate the accident: An attorney can investigate the accident to try and identify the driver who caused the accident. This may include reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and gathering other evidence to help identify the driver.
- Communicate with insurance companies: If the driver who caused the accident is identified, a hit-and-run accident lawyer in North Charleston can negotiate a settlement for your damages with the driver’s insurance company.
- File a personal injury lawsuit: If the driver who caused the accident cannot be identified or does not have insurance, an attorney can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.
- Fight for your rights: An attorney can fight for your rights and ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the legal process. This can include representing you in court, negotiating with insurance companies, and advocating.
Compensation that Can Be Recovered for North Charleston Hit-and-Run Accidents
Damages can include any physical or emotional injuries, property damage, or financial losses you have suffered due to the accident.
Some common damages that you may be able to recover in a hit-and-run accident case include:
- Medical bills: If you were injured in the accident, you might be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and other medical expenses related to your injuries.
- Lost wages: If you were unable to work due to your injuries, you might be able to recover compensation for your lost wages. This can include any income you lost as a result of being unable to work and any future lost earning potential if your injuries have long-term consequences.
- Property damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you might be able to recover compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Pain and suffering: If you have experienced physical or emotional pain and suffering due to the accident, you may be able to recover compensation for these damages. Pain and suffering can include physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional effects of the accident.
- Punitive damages: In some cases, you may recover punitive damages designed to punish the driver who caused the accident for their reckless or negligent behavior. Punitive damages are typically only awarded in cases where the driver’s behavior was particularly egregious, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Specific damages you may recover will depend on the facts of your case. An experienced hit-and-run accident attorney in North Charleston can help you evaluate your case and determine what damages you may be entitled to receive. In addition to helping you recover compensation for your damages, a hit-and-run accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process and advocate for your rights.
Contact Shelly Leeke Law Firm for a North Charleston Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney
A North Charleston hit-and-run accident attorney from Shelly Leeke Law Firm can investigate your accident, work with insurance companies to negotiate a settlement, and file a personal injury lawsuit, if necessary. By working with an experienced attorney, you can ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today.
