The initial shock of the collision wasn’t enough. The other driver had to back it up by fleeing from the scene, leaving you injured and with property damage. Despite the law, people still make bad decisions. If you’re coping with overcoming painful injuries and trying to pay your property damage by yourself, you should seek the advice of a Titusville hit-and-run accident lawyer.
Even if you don’t know who hit you, there may still be ways you can recoup some compensation for your losses. The Titusville hit-and-run accident lawyer from Andrew Pickett Law, PLLC can help gather evidence, which may lead to a discovery of the driver’s identity. Attorneys also know that you likely have purchased uninsured/underinsured coverage, and it may be a matter of filing the claim correctly.
Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage Helps Hit-and-Run Accident Victims
After the shock wears off from the accident, you might be wondering how to manage your medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Many people opt for uninsured/underinsured coverage on their personal automobile policy. Some don’t even know that it is part of their plan. It is worth looking into rather than trying to pay for the damage yourself.
Low Compensation Offers
Some hit-and-run victims face a problem: they file a claim with their provider, and it gets denied entirely, or they are offered a low settlement. These are common tactics from insurance companies always looking toward the bottom line.
Your car accident lawyer will be able to file any appeals you need. An attorney understands the language of your coverage and the value of your contract with your provider. They would be able to dispute any low offer or provide solid evidence for your damages.
Hit-and-Run Accidents Are on the Rise on Florida Roadways
Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle (FHSMV) division collects data on traffic accidents in the state. By reviewing the data, they work with other Florida agencies to improve road safety for everyone.
FHSMV revealed that fatalities from hit-and-run accidents are increasing. The number of victims left with injuries is also significant. In 2019, Florida experienced 214 deaths, and 22,401 victims were left with injuries. In 2020, the number of fatalities increased significantly to 256 lives lost. In one year, it is an approximate 20% increase.
Regulations on Leaving the Scene in Florida
Florida Statute § 316.027(2)(a) and Statute § 316.061(1) are both regulations that deal with driver actions and behaviors after an accident. The first statute deals with accidents that involve death or serious bodily injury. The second regulation encompasses injuries, property damage, and what to do if the other car was left unattended. Under both laws, the requirements of the driver are the same. It would be best if you stayed at the scene of an accident.
How Much is My Hit-and-Run Accident Claim Worth?
All personal injury claims are based on actual losses. You are entitled to recover those losses directly due to the accident. Your personal injury case could be worth the total amount of your losses. If the other driver is found, that driver and their insurance coverage will cover your claim. If not, then you would need to file with your own uninsured/underinsured coverage if you have it.
How Can an Attorney Help With a Titusville Hit-and-Run Accident Case?
Attorneys do many things to help accident victims, and a great deal of it is outside of the courtroom. If you need specific medical care, your attorney may be able to refer you. A law firm also has other employees that assist with cases. An investigator could help locate the hit-and-run driver. They could also recreate the accident to demonstrate that you were not at fault.
An attorney will interview eyewitnesses, gather medical evidence, and hire experts to testify on your behalf. So much is done before any court hearing that many cases settle out of court. Negotiating a fair settlement without court is the goal, but your attorney can represent your case before a judge or jury if needed.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Titusville
The law in Florida is that you must stay at the scene. Even if you see the other driver flee, let them go. In anger, you might feel the urge to go after them. It is safer for you to let the authorities handle it. You don’t know why this person is fleeing; they could be armed and dangerous.
After Your Accident, Protect Your Claim
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Ask for an ambulance
- Check yourself for injuries
- If you are able, get out and render aid to anyone else with injuries
- Be honest with the police
- Give the police what details you can about the driver
- As bystanders for their phone numbers as eyewitnesses
- Look around to see if there are any business cameras in the area
- Take pictures of the damage and injuries
Your attorney could file your claim immediately with your insurance provider since Florida is a no-fault insurance state. It is possible to get compensated for economic and non-economic damages through special coverage on your policy.
Uninsured/underinsured coverage may come with your selected insurance, or it may be an add-on policy. Your attorney can explain the best actions to take in your claim.
Where Can I Seek Advice for My Hit-and-Run Accident Claim in Titusville?
Just because a driver chose to do the wrong thing and run from the scene doesn’t necessarily mean you will have to foot the bill for the damages yourself. At Andrew Pickett Law, PLLC, we offer a no-obligation review of your case to help you get started. We can help you discover your legal options.
Start today; Florida has a statute of limitations for filing your personal injury lawsuit. Call us today!
