When consulting car accident attorneys, the first step is to determine fault, and once assigned, pursuing compensation from the responsible party seems like the logical outcome. Yet, that is harder to do, especially when a hit-and-run accident occurs. Learn how the Okemos car accident attorney at White Law PLLC works to protect your right to compensation after such an accident.
What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit and run accident occurs when a party collides with another party, regardless of fault in the incident, and that person drives away without providing insurance information, contact information, or support to the other party. Hit-and-run accidents mean just what they sound like – a person hits someone and leaves the other party there, often to suffer without any care. This is a criminal offense.
Under the law, a person is responsible for stopping when there is any type of collision, and in situations where there are injuries or significant property damage occurs, they must call the police. It is a criminal act to leave the scene of the accident after a collision like this. Yet, it happens often, and when it does, it can be very difficult for the victim.
In a hit-and-run accident, you may believe there is very little you can do to pursue compensation for the losses you have, but that is not the case. Your own insurance may help to cover some of the losses you have if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Even if not, there are still steps that can be taken to find and hold the person who caused this incident accountable for what happened to you.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
How We Investigate a Hit and Run Accident
At White Law PLLC, we work diligently and do all we can to represent our clients and pursue the highest level of compensation possible after their accidents. Though a hit-and-run accident is certainly more complex, it is still possible to find the person responsible and hold them accountable in most cases. We are always transparent with you and will not promise that we will find this party, but there are many ways we can work towards finding them.
The first step is often to gather as much information from witnesses at the scene, and that includes cameras nearby that could provide evidence about what occurred. We also work to speak to anyone in the area who may have knowledge about what occurred, using the information you provide from the accident. We can use police reports, diagrams of the incident area, photos, videos, and more data to help us determine who is to blame.
We will canvas the area, gather any information possible from cameras, such as license plate numbers, and use any information you provide about the make and model to get information. If you know the type of damage present, we may be able to contact repair shops to find out if anyone has brought their vehicle in for repairs. Our legal team will work carefully to fully understand what evidence is available that could help us to construct a case for you.
We Work Alongside the Police
Typically, since this is a criminal investigation, the police will play a role in the process of finding those who are responsible for the injuries. Our attorneys will work alongside them, sharing information and data to ensure that all information is shared with us. We know that a hit and run is an important criminal investigation for the police, and we also know how important it is to you as you need to recover financially from the losses that you have suffered.
What to Expect in a Hit-and-Run Investigation
When a hit-and-run investigation gets started, which generally is done right away, there will be a number of steps the police take to gather information, and you can expect to be asked questions more than once. You may find that this process takes time, though, which is why it is often ideal to write down everything you remember now. The police (and our attorneys) may ask you for clarification over time, and these records can prove to be valuable.
It can take weeks to months before you learn of anything involving your hit-and-run accident since it can take a long time for police to focus on your case. Every situation is different, and there are many times when we can help you to track down the responsible party within a matter of days. The key to remember is that it takes time, and our legal team will work as closely as possible with you to create the best possible outcome.
Be available to the police and our investigators throughout this process to ensure the best level of communication. Be open and honest with them about any details you can remember about the incident and even things you may not be sure about, like the color or type of vehicle. In a hit-and-run accident, these details can prove to be vitally important.
What do I Do in the Meantime While I Wait for the Investigation?
You may be able to file a claim with your auto insurance for the damages you have incurred in a hit-and-run accident. Our car accident attorneys can help you determine what your losses are and develop all the evidence necessary to file such a claim. We encourage you to reach out to us now to discuss your case before you file a claim with your insurance company.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Schedule a Free, No Obligation Consultation with Us Now
Contact White Law PLLC now to discuss your hit-and-run case and learn how we investigate what occurred. Our legal team has helped clients to recover over $1 billion in losses from their accidents, including numerous instances of hit-and-run cases. Let us offer insight, legal strategy, and our highly talented and skilled investigative team to help support you in your pursuit of financial compensation for your losses at a free consultation.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
