Hit and run accidents frequently occur out of the blue when a driver least expects them. In a car accident scenario, the insurance company is never on your side. Therefore, if you suffered Injuries in a recent hit and run, you need to have a skilled Calgary car accident lawyer on your side who can explain your legal rights and insurance options. Your lawyer can file a claim with the appropriate insurance company and begin pursuing the financial compensation you deserve for your accident-related losses.
Common Types of Hit and Run Accidents
Hit and run car collisions can take various forms, each presenting unique challenges for investigators and consequences for those involved. One common type is the rear-end collision, where a vehicle strikes the one in front and flees the scene. This often occurs at traffic signals or in heavy traffic, leaving the victim with rear-end damage – and the challenge of identifying the fleeing vehicle.
Another prevalent scenario involves side-swipe collisions, where a vehicle makes contact with the side of another and then speeds away. This type frequently occurs on multi-lane roads or during lane changes, making determining fault and locating the responsible party challenging.
Parking lot collisions represent a different set of hit and run incidents, with drivers damaging parked cars and leaving without taking responsibility. These incidents may involve limited witness visibility, making it harder to identify the culprit.
Pedestrian hit and runs occur when a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, and the driver leaves the scene. These incidents are particularly concerning due to the potential for severe injuries or fatalities. Identifying the fleeing vehicle becomes crucial for legal accountability and closure to the affected individuals and their families.
Additionally, intersection collisions are common hit and run scenarios, where a driver runs a red light or fails to yield the right-of-way, causing a collision and then leaving the scene. The complexity of intersections and the speed of such incidents often make it challenging for witnesses to provide accurate details.
In all these cases, hit and run collisions pose significant legal and ethical issues. If you suffered injuries in a hit and run, a car accident lawyer can investigate your accident circumstances and work to identify the responsible driver.
Injuries in a Hit and Run Crash
Hit and run car accidents can result in various injuries, varying in severity and effect on victims. One of the most common injuries is whiplash, often associated with rear-end collisions. This injury occurs when the accident victim’s head jerks abruptly forward and backward, straining the neck’s muscles and ligaments. Despite its commonality, whiplash can cause prolonged pain and discomfort.
Soft tissue injuries are also prevalent in hit and run accidents, affecting muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and can lead to chronic pain or restricted mobility over time.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a serious consequence of car accidents, including hit and runs. These injuries occur when the head forcefully collides with an object, causing damage to the brain. TBIs can range from concussions to severe and life-altering conditions, often affecting cognitive functions, memory, and emotional well-being.
Fractures and broken bones are also common in high-impact collisions. Legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis are particularly vulnerable, and fractures can lead to extended recovery periods, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
In hit and run accidents involving pedestrians, severe injuries often occur. Broken bones, head injuries, and internal injuries are common due to the lack of protection for pedestrians compared to occupants of enclosed motor vehicles.
Psychological trauma is another significant consequence, especially when victims feel like they will not get any closure as a result of the fleeing driver. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can manifest in the aftermath of a hit and run, affecting the victim’s overall well-being and quality of life.
It’s important to note that the severity of injuries in hit and run accidents depends upon various factors, including the vehicles’ speeds, the point of impact, and whether occupants are wearing seatbelts. Seeking immediate medical attention after a hit and run is crucial to address and document injuries, even if they seem minor initially.
Where do Hit and Run Accidents Happen?
Hit and run car collisions can occur in various locations, each presenting unique challenges for both victims and investigators. Intersections are frequent hotspots where drivers may run red lights, fail to yield, or make improper turns before fleeing the scene. The complex dynamics of intersecting traffic increase the likelihood of collisions and subsequent hit and runs.
Parking lots are another common location for hit and runs. The close proximity of vehicles and sometimes limited visibility contribute to fender benders, scrapes, and dents, with drivers opting to leave without exchanging information.
Residential areas also witness hit and runs, often involving parked cars or pedestrians. The slower speeds in these zones may give a false sense of security, but accidents still occur, and some drivers choose to evade responsibility.
Highways and busy thoroughfares are not exempt from hit and run incidents either. Speeding, reckless driving, and the potential for multiple lanes contribute to the severity of collisions, with some drivers opting to flee to escape legal consequences.
Regardless of location, hit and run collisions highlight the importance of responsible driving and the potential consequences of failing to uphold their duty after an accident. If you recently suffered injuries in a hit and run, your lawyer can file a claim with your insurance company and begin pursuing favourable monetary compensation on your behalf.
Why do Hit and Run Accidents Happen?
Hit and run car accidents can result from a combination of factors, often fueled by negligence, panic, or a disregard for legal and moral responsibilities. One of the primary causes is reckless driving, which includes speeding, aggressive maneuvers, and other violations of traffic laws. Reckless drivers may be more likely to engage in hit and run incidents as they attempt to escape accountability for their actions.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another significant factor. Impaired judgment and diminished cognitive abilities increase the likelihood of accidents, and some individuals may choose to flee the scene to avoid legal consequences related to their impaired state.
Distracted driving is a common cause of hit and runs, with the use of smartphones, navigation systems, or other distractions that may divert a driver’s attention from the road. Inattentive driving can lead to collisions, and some individuals may flee, fearing the consequences of their distraction.
Uninsured or underinsured drivers may also be more prone to hit and runs. Faced with the potential financial repercussions of an accident, drivers without adequate insurance coverage may choose to leave the scene to avoid legal and financial responsibilities.
Fear of legal repercussions is a common motivator for hit and run accidents. Drivers with outstanding warrants, expired licenses, or a history of traffic violations may flee to evade arrest or legal consequences, even if the accident is not their fault.
Finally, some hit and runs stem from a lack of awareness or understanding of the severity of the situation. Inexperienced drivers or those unfamiliar with traffic laws may panic and flee without realizing the potential harm caused.
Legal Elements of a Hit and Run Case
In a hit and run car accident case, establishing legal elements of proof is crucial for a successful claim or lawsuit. The following elements are typically vital in building a compelling case for monetary damages:
- Identification of the Fleeing Driver – The first challenge is identifying the responsible party. Eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, or any evidence left at the scene, such as vehicle debris or license plate information, can help track down the fleeing driver. Reporting the incident promptly to law enforcement is critical for initiating an investigation.
- Negligence and Breach of Duty – To establish liability, the injured accident victim must show that the fleeing driver was negligent and breached their legal duty of care. This involves demonstrating that the driver failed to exercise reasonable care on the road, leading to the accident.
- Causation – There must also be a direct link between the negligence of the fleeing driver and the injuries or damages that the accident victim suffered. Establishing causation is crucial to proving that the hit and run incident was the proximate cause of the harm.
- Evidence Collection – Comprehensive evidence is pivotal. This includes obtaining a copy of the police report, collecting witness statements, taking photographs of the accident scene, and preserving any relevant physical evidence. Medical records detailing the injuries sustained in the accident also contribute to showcasing the extent of an accident victim’s overall damages.
- Insurance Documentation – Following a hit and run, accident victims often turn to their own insurance policies for compensation through uninsured motorist coverage. Proper documentation of insurance policies, correspondence with the insurance company, and adherence to claim procedures are essential.
Navigating these legal elements of proof requires the experience of legal professionals who can build a comprehensive case and ensure you receive the justice and financial compensation you need.
How Can an Experienced Car Crash Lawyer Help after a Hit and Run?
To increase your chances of recovering the fair monetary compensation you deserve, consult an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible. A car accident lawyer can offer you comprehensive assistance that extends beyond typical legal representation, including:
- Identification of the at-fault Driver – Car accident lawyers can collaborate with investigators to identify the fleeing driver. Their experience navigating legal channels and access to resources can expedite this process, increasing the chances of holding the responsible party accountable.
- Navigating Insurance Claims – Dealing with insurance companies can be complex, especially in hit and run cases. A lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand your coverage, assisting in filing claims, and negotiating with insurers to secure fair compensation for your accident-related damages.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage – If the hit and run driver is not identified or lacks insurance, a car accident lawyer can leverage your uninsured motorist coverage. They understand the nuances of these policies, ensuring that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
- Legal Expertise in Personal Injury Laws – Car accident lawyers focus on personal injury law. They can assess the circumstances of the hit and run, determine liability, and build a robust case for seeking compensation for loss of earning capacity, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Court Representation – If negotiations with insurance companies prove insufficient, a car accident lawyer can represent you in court. They will present your case, handle legal procedures, and advocate for your rights to ensure a fair resolution.
- Emotional Support and Guidance – Beyond legal matters, a car accident lawyer provides emotional support during a challenging time. They understand the stress and trauma associated with hit and run accidents and can offer guidance on the best course of action for your unique situation.
Quickly engaging a car accident lawyer after a hit and run crash ensures that you have a skilled advocate, streamlining the legal process and maximizing your chances of obtaining rightful compensation and justice.
What is the Value of My Hit and Run Car Accident Case?
In a hit and run car accident claim or lawsuit, victims may seek various types of financial damages to compensate for the losses they incurred due to the incident. These damages aim to restore the injured party to a financial position as close as possible to what they were before the accident. Common types of financial damages in hit and run cases include:
- Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity – If the victim cannot work due to injuries sustained in a hit and run, they can seek compensation for lost income. This includes current lost income and potential future earnings if the injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability.
- Pain and Suffering – Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, inconvenience, and emotional distress may also be recoverable. Calculating these damages is subjective, considering the severity of injuries, the overall effect on the accident victim’s life, and any emotional trauma suffered.
- Loss of Consortium – This type of damage compensates the injured accident victim’s family for the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy stemming from the hit and run.
- Punitive Damages – In certain cases, punitive damages may be recoverable to punish the at-fault party for willful or malicious conduct. Punitive damages aim to deter similar behaviour and do not have the sole purpose of compensating the accident victim.
- Funeral and Burial Expenses – In cases where a hit and run results in a fatality, the accident victim’s family may seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses as part of a wrongful death claim.
It’s important for hit and run victims to document and quantify these damages thoroughly, providing evidence to support their claims. An experienced car accident lawyer can effectively navigate the complexities of a hit and run car accident claim, aggressively pursuing all applicable financial damages.
Speak with a Knowledgeable Car Accident Lawyer in Your Area Today
If you recently suffered injuries in a hit and run car accident, time is of the essence. This is because accident victims only have two years from their accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking damages. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in Calgary can promptly take the steps necessary to investigate your accident, file a claim, and recover the monetary damages you deserve.
