Have you been injured in a hit-and-run accident? Regular car accidents are difficult enough to deal with. When the at-fault driver flees the scene, things are exponentially more difficult.
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, you need to speak to a Cleveland car accident lawyer from Haque Law. We can help you file a claim through your uninsured motorist insurance and identify other options for financial compensation.
Our team has over 80 years of combined legal experience and a passion for serving justice. Contact us online or reach out by phone today to schedule an appointment with a hit-and-run accident lawyer in Cleveland.
Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer
You need a Cleveland personal injury lawyer to provide legal support and guidance throughout the insurance claim process. A lawyer can investigate and gather evidence, organize your medical documentation, and represent you during insurance settlement negotiations.
A lawyer can also pursue your case in formal litigation if necessary to secure your compensation. When you are recovering from a severe injury, you need a lawyer to handle the legal and administrative burden. That way, you can prioritize healing and recovery.
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Why Do Drivers Flee the Accident Scene?
Hit-and-runs are treated very seriously in Texas. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a major crime, which raises the question: why do people run after a car accident?
Commonly, the driver:
- Panics in the chaos and drives off without thinking
- May not have insurance and doesn’t want to be on the hook for damages
- Is drunk and doesn’t want to be arrested for drunk driving
- Has warrants out for them and doesn’t want to interact with the police
Cleveland Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Near Me (281) 417-8311
Who Pays for a Hit-and-Run Accident?
When you’re injured in a car accident, you typically file an injury claim with the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. However, this is not possible in hit-and-run accidents where the other driver is unknown.
Instead, you’d file a claim through your own auto policy’s uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage will pay for your injuries when the other driver doesn’t have insurance or is unknown, as is the case in hit-and-run accidents. UM coverage isn’t mandatory to own in Texas, but insurers are legally required to offer it to you when you purchase your auto policy.
Filing a UM claim is largely the same as filing a typical car accident claim, except your insurance company plays the role of the at-fault driver’s insurer. Just because it’s your own insurance doesn’t mean things will be easier for you. You still need to work with a lawyer who can advocate on your behalf and ensure your losses are covered.
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What Happens if the Driver Is Later Identified?
If the driver is later identified, you may be able to file a lawsuit directly against them. However, recovering compensation directly from the driver may be difficult if they lack substantial assets to pay for your injuries.
Additionally, the at-fault driver may face criminal prosecution for fleeing the scene of an accident.
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Compensation You Can Recover in a Hit-and-Run Accident Lawsuit
Your losses after a car accident may be great, but with a lawsuit, you can recover financial compensation for your injury-related expenses.
Compensable losses may include:
- Emergency medical bills and hospitalization costs
- Future necessary medical expenses (e.g., physical rehab)
- The value of lost work income and reduced lifetime earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket injury-related expenses (e.g., transportation)
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and mental anguish
- Loss of convenience due to scarring or disfigurement
- Property repair or replacement costs
Fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious crime, so there may also be the chance to recover punitive damages. If the driver is later identified, a court might order them to pay punitive damages if they displayed reckless or malicious behavior.
Time Limit for Filing a Claim
According to Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code 16.003, you have two years to file a lawsuit for injuries after a hit-and-run accident. The two-year timer starts counting from the date the accident happened.
This time limit is extremely strict; if you are even just one day late, you’ll lose your chance to file a lawsuit for financial compensatory damages. As such, your best option is to find an attorney early and get started.
The earlier you start, the sooner you’ll get your payments and the less likely you are to experience payment delays.
Contact a Cleveland Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Today
A hit-and-run accident can throw your life into chaos, but there are options for relief and stability. The team at Haque Law can provide competent and effective legal representation and work to secure your losses. We can also help with the details of managing your injuries, such as helping with medical liens and transportation to doctor appointments.
We have recovered tens of millions of dollars for deserving clients, so don’t hesitate to reach out today. Contact our offices online or give us a call to speak to a Cleveland hit-and-run accident lawyer.
Call or text (281) 417-8311 or complete a Case Evaluation form
