Accidents involving hit-and-run drivers can result in serious injuries. Sadly, victims of hit-and-run accidents are left to deal with the aftermath of the accident. Accident victims frequently suffer significant financial losses because they are unable to hold the hit-and-run driver accountable.
Drivers may choose to leave the scene of a crash for a number of reasons, including:
- The driver is not covered by auto insurance
- The driver does not have a valid driver’s license or their license has been suspended
- It’s possible that a driver is inebriated or under the influence of drugs
- There could be outstanding warrants or other criminal charges against the at-fault party
It is illegal to flee the scene of a traffic accident in Texas. If the hit-and-run driver is identified, police officers may charge them with a crime. The driver may also be held liable for any injuries and damages associated with the crash.
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to track down a hit-and-run driver. The driver may never be found by law enforcement. When the driver cannot be identified, what can you do to recover lost compensation? West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD is here to help. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer in Houston is the first step toward recovery following a hit-and-run.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage?
Liability insurance is a legal requirement for all drivers. When a driver is responsible for a car crash, liability insurance is meant to compensate the injured parties. However, statistics show that about 20% of Texas drivers do not have liability insurance coverage.
After a hit-and-run, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. If you have uninsured motorist coverage (UM), your insurance company may be able to compensate you for your losses. Uninsured motorist coverage pays for injuries and damages caused by a driver who does not have insurance. It also covers you if you’re hurt in a hit-and-run accident caused by another motorist.
Your uninsured motorist coverage may be able to cover the following:
- Medical bills and cost of medical treatment, including surgeries, hospitalizations, medications, and therapies
- Lost income, including benefits, commissions, and bonuses
- Pain and suffering damages, such as mental anguish, physical discomfort, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life
- Travel expenses related to hospital visits
- Help with household chores and the cost of personal care
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Permanent disabilities and impairments
Unless the person declines coverage, Texas insurance policies must include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. If you opt out of UM coverage, you will be unable to file a claim following a hit-and-run accident. Even if the at-fault driver is never identified, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries and other damages with UM coverage.
How Do I Get Compensation After a Hit and Run?
If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, do not assume that your insurance company will automatically pay your claim. The provider will only pay your claim if you can show that the hit-and-run driver was to blame for the accident. That is why you may need to retain the services of a car accident attorney to handle your claim.
Your lawyer will investigate your accident in order to gather evidence that will prove who was at fault. Your attorney could use the following evidence to prove the other driver was at fault:
- Video evidence from traffic cameras or surveillance cameras
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Skid marks and other evidence from the accident scene
- Opinions and evidence provided by experts, such as accident reconstructionists
Your insurer may contest the claim’s liability. It may try to blame you for causing or contributing to the crash. Before speaking with an insurance claims adjuster about the accident, speak with an experienced Houston car accident lawyer about your rights and the steps you need to take to protect yourself.
Car Crash Lawyers in Houston
Victims of hit-and-run accidents are at risk of suffering serious injuries with little certainty that the at-fault party will be held responsible. A Houston auto accident attorney will know how to improve your chances of getting a fair settlement. West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD can look into your accident and determine who is responsible for your injuries. Your attorney will also handle the insurance claims process, including interactions with the claims adjusters, in order to obtain the greatest potential settlement award.
Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD and Nader Rabie, JD can help you maximize your claim for compensation and ensure that the at-fault party is held accountable.
Call West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD today at (713) 840-7200 to book a free, no-obligation consultation if you or a loved one has been unfairly injured in a car crash.
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