Hit-and-Run Accidents

Vancouver attorney Colin Scott fights for the rights of the injured

Hit-and-run accidents can leave you feeling frustrated, helpless, and unsure of what to do next. If you’re dealing with medical bills, vehicle damage, and the uncertainty of not knowing who is responsible, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your rights.

Getting legal help from an experienced Vancouver car accident lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. The legal team at The Scott Law Firm, PLLC has extensive experience handling hit-and-run cases. We know how to help victims pursue compensation even when the at-fault driver is unknown.

What is a hit-and-run?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing their contact information, rendering aid, or notifying authorities. This can involve collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or even stationary objects.

In Washington State, it’s illegal for any driver involved in a traffic accident to flee the scene, regardless of the severity of the damage or injuries. Failing to stop can lead to criminal charges, fines, and potential jail time for the at-fault driver.

Who is at fault in a hit-and-run?

In a hit-and-run case, leaving the scene of a crash violates state law, which can lead to criminal and civil liability.

However, determining fault can be challenging when the responsible driver is unidentified. If you’re a crash victim, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own insurance policy or other means.

How is fault determined in a hit-and-run?

Even if the driver who caused the accident is unknown, there are still ways to establish fault and seek compensation. Evidence from witnesses, surveillance camera footage, and damage analysis can help prove, by a preponderance of evidence, who was responsible and therefore liable civilly.

Police reports often help document the details of a hit-and-run and may contain valuable information that helps identify the at-fault driver. Vancouver hit-and-run attorney Colin Scott can also work with a crash reconstruction expert, if appropriate, to piece together what happened and provide solid evidence for your claim.

What to do after a hit-and-run accident

Take immediate action after a hit-and-run accident for your safety and to build a strong case. First, move to a safe location and check for injuries. If there are any serious injuries, call 911 for emergency medical help.

You should also call the police and, if there are no medical emergencies, wait for an officer to arrive and document the crash scene. When speaking to the police, provide all known information, such as the vehicle’s description, a description of the driver if you saw them, the direction the other vehicle was headed when leaving the scene, and any other details you can recall.

It also helps to take photos of the crash scene, note details about the fleeing vehicle and driver, and speak with witnesses. Even if you feel fine, it may be a good idea to get checked out by a doctor to make sure you do not have any serious injuries. Many crash-related injuries can appear hours later, after your adrenaline has worn off, and may worsen if left untreated.

Inform your insurer about the hit-and-run accident and provide any evidence you have collected. If the hit-and-run driver can’t be identified, you will likely need to file a police report as well as make a claim with your insurance company. If you were injured in the crash, be sure to also consult with a personal injury attorney – preferably before you speak to the insurance company.

Does uninsured motorist coverage cover a hit-and-run?

In most cases, uninsured motorist coverage (abbreviated UM or UIM) can help cover damages from a hit-and-run accident. Such coverage is designed to protect you when the at-fault driver either has no insurance or is unidentified – or it can be used to supplement liability coverage when the other driver who caused the accident is underinsured.

UM or UIM coverage may help pay for things like medical bills, vehicle repairs, and even compensation for pain and suffering. If you don’t have this coverage on your policy, other options may still be available depending on what happened and the specific circumstances of the crash you were involved in.

Contact us for a free consultation

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in the greater Vancouver area, you need a strong legal advocate fighting for you every step of the way. The legal team at The Scott Law Firm will review your case, help you understand your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

With a proven track record of getting favorable outcomes for clients, our dedicated team knows how to handle the legal process while you focus on healing. If you were hurt in a hit-and-run accident, don’t wait to contact us for a free consultation. Acting quickly can improve your chances of a successful outcome. When you work with an experienced hit-and-run lawyer at The Scott Law Firm, you can rest assured that your case is in good hands.