Being injured in a car crash is stressful enough on its own, but it can be even more difficult when the driver responsible for the collision flees the scene, calling into question your ability to hold him or her accountable for your damages through a personal injury lawsuit. However, you do have options after a hit-and-run accident, and in many cases it is even possible to identify and locate the at-fault driver.
Although the other driver may leave the scene after the accident, it is best for you to stay put and call 911. This can not only ensure that you get the immediate medical attention you need for your injuries, but also notify law enforcement so that they can come to the scene of the crash and create a report.
An officer may ask you and other witnesses for details regarding the circumstances of the accident, as well as any possible identifying features of the at-fault driver. Leaving the scene of a crash involving injury or death is a felony offense in Illinois, and law enforcement will often be motivated to investigate and apprehend the suspected offender. Any information you can provide regarding the appearance of the vehicle or the driver, the driver’s license plate number, or the direction in which the driver fled can help officers find the driver and notify you of their identity so that you can file a claim against them.
You should also reach out to an attorney who can help you uncover and obtain any other evidence of the driver’s identity and negligence. For example, footage from a security or traffic camera in the area can not only show how the crash occurred, but also provide law enforcement with additional information to help them identify the driver who fled.
Sometimes, it is not possible to identify the at-fault driver, and even if the driver’s identity is determined, they may lack liability insurance that could provide for your compensation. In these cases, your best option may be to pursue an uninsured motorist claim through your own car insurance provider. Fortunately, uninsured motorist coverage is required for all Illinois car insurance policies, so as long as you are insured, your attorney can help you take the necessary steps to pursue this option as well.
At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we understand the hardship you are experiencing after a hit-and-run accident, and we want to help you identify the driver who is responsible so we can hold them accountable. Contact us today at 630-420-1000 for a free consultation with an experienced DuPage County personal injury lawyer.
Sources:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-401
https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/vsd361.pdf
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