Don’t Be a Victim Twice in a Hit-and-Run Accident
Getting into a car accident is hard, but a hit-and-run can feel even worse. Knowing what to do when the other driver takes off is tough. If you’re in Liberty, MO, learning how to protect your rights is important after something like this happens. From handling damage and injuries to figuring out your next steps, having a clear plan can make things easier. A Kansas car accident lawyer can help you understand what to do and how to recover costs for your damages.
Quick Summary:
- A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing information or helping anyone who may be injured. In Missouri, this is a serious offense with penalties such as fines, license suspension, or jail time. State law requires all drivers involved in an accident to stop, regardless of fault. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges, and law enforcement actively pursues hit-and-run offenders.
- Missouri follows an “at-fault” system, meaning the responsible driver must pay for damages. If they flee, victims may rely on their insurance, including uninsured motorist coverage, which is mandatory in Missouri. If the hit-and-run driver is caught, they can face misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the accident’s severity. Victims may also file a lawsuit for medical expenses, car repairs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
- Victims should prioritize their safety by seeking medical attention, even if injuries are not immediately visible. Reporting the accident to the police is critical, as the report can support insurance claims or legal action. Gathering evidence, such as photos, witness information, and security footage, strengthens a case. Victims should avoid admitting fault and keep detailed records of medical bills, repair costs, and lost wages. Consulting a personal injury lawyer can help navigate insurance claims and legal options.
- Parking in well-lit areas, staying alert at crosswalks, and using a dashcam can help prevent or document hit-and-run accidents. Ensuring a vehicle is easily identifiable with clear license plates can deter drivers from fleeing. Taking these precautions can reduce the risk of hit-and-run incidents and make it easier to gather evidence if one occurs.
What Does Hit-and-Run Mean?
A hit-and-run happens when a driver crashes into a vehicle, person, or property and leaves without stopping to give their information or help anyone who might be hurt. This is a serious crime in Missouri. Drivers who flee the scene can face hefty fines, lose their license, or even go to jail.
What are My Rights After a Hit-and-Run in Missouri?
Missouri law requires all drivers in an accident to stop and share their information, no matter who caused the crash. Leaving the scene without doing so can lead to criminal charges. If you’re a hit-and-run victim, here’s what you need to know:
For Insurance Claims
- Missouri follows an “at-fault” system, meaning the driver who caused the accident must pay for damages.
- Your insurance may step in if the at-fault driver escapes.
- Uninsured motorist coverage, a requirement in Missouri, usually pays for injuries caused by an unknown driver.
- If you have collision insurance or uninsured motorist property damage coverage, it may help with vehicle repairs.
For Criminal Charges
If caught, the driver could face misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on how severe the accident was. Victims can also work with the police to help identify the driver.
For Filing a Lawsuit
If the driver is identified, you may have the right to sue for damages. This can include medical expenses related to injuries from the accident, repair costs for your vehicle, lost wages if you were unable to work, and compensation for emotional distress caused by the incident.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Accidents can be overwhelming, but knowing what steps to take afterward can make a big difference. Whether you’re dealing with an injury or property damage, following the proper steps can help protect your rights and ensure you’re covered.
Focus on Your Safety and Health
Your health comes first. If you’re hurt, call 911 or get medical help right away. Even if you feel okay, some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, might not show up immediately. Seeing a doctor ensures you’re treated properly and creates a medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
Report the Accident
If it’s a car accident or an incident that requires police intervention, call the authorities and file a report. This report can be vital if you decide to file a claim later. If an accident occurs on someone else’s property, tell the owner or manager and ask them to document it. Be sure to get a copy of the report.
Collect Evidence
If you can, gather information to support your claim:
- Take photos or videos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Get the names and contact info of witnesses. Their statements can help explain what happened. Ask anyone nearby if they saw what happened, or you can look around for security cameras that might have caught the accident.
- Write down details about the conditions at the time, like weather or any hazards.
Watch What You Say
Be careful not to admit fault, even casually, as it could be used against you. When talking to insurance companies, avoid giving recorded statements without advice from a lawyer. Insurance companies often try to pay less, so it’s best to let an attorney handle these conversations.
Keep Track of Everything
Save all documents related to the accident, including:
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Repair estimates for your vehicle or property
- Receipts for expenses like medication or transportation
- Proof of lost income, if applicable
Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer
Reaching out to a personal injury lawyer can make the process easier. They can guide you through the legal steps and deal with insurance companies while you focus on recovering.
Taking the proper steps after an accident can help protect your health and rights. By staying organized and reaching out to the right people when needed, you can handle the situation more smoothly and get the support you deserve.
How Can I Prevent Future Hit-and-Run Incidents?
Taking steps to prevent a hit-and-run from happening in the future can help protect you and others on the road. Here are a few things to consider:
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Always park your vehicle in a well-lit, visible spot, especially at night. That reduces the chance of your car being hit by another driver who may not want to stop.
- Be Alert at Crosswalks: Always be cautious around pedestrians and crosswalks, ensuring you stop for people crossing the road. That will lower the chances of accidents that could lead to a hit-and-run.
- Install a Dashcam: A dashcam can help provide evidence if you are involved in an accident. It can capture important details like the other driver’s license plate, making it easier to identify them if they leave the scene.
- Ensure Your Vehicle is Easily Identifiable: A noticeable vehicle can make it harder for someone to flee the scene without being spotted. Clear license plates and markings can also help identify your car in case of a hit-and-run.
These preventative measures can lower the chances of being involved in a hit-and-run accident. It will also make it easier to gather the necessary information if one does happen.
Call Our Kansas Car Accident Lawyer Now!
After a hit-and-run accident, you must act fast to protect your rights. The situation can be stressful, but a Kansas car accident lawyer can make things easier. At Noland Law Firm, LLC, our experienced legal team knows exactly how to handle cases like yours. We will help you get the compensation you need for medical bills, car damage, lost wages, and more. We’ll guide you through every step of the process while you focus on healing and recovering.
Finding witnesses to a hit-and-run can be challenging, but it’s key to finding the responsible driver. Knowing how to find witnesses after a hit-and-run in Liberty, MO, can make all the difference in your case. We can help you gather important information, talk to witnesses, and build a strong case. Don’t handle it alone if you’ve been in a hit-and-run—contact Noland Law Firm, LLC. Our lawyers will support you throughout the process, ensuring you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
