Attorney
Maryland drivers are required by law to stop at the scene of an accident. They must exchange information and remain at the scene until police arrive. Drivers who flee the scene of an accident may be charged with Failure to Stop and Remain at the Scene of an Accident. Hit-and-run drivers may face jail sentences, fines, and other penalties.
The victims of hit-and-run accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. A Maryland personal injury attorney can evaluate the accident to determine what types of compensation might be available.
The victim may receive compensation under their uninsured motorist coverage. If the hit-and-run driver is identified, the accident victim may seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s liability automobile insurance. The key is to take steps that improve your chance of success in a personal injury case.
Five Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Maryland
The steps you take after a hit-and-run accident in Maryland could have a significant impact on the outcome of your injury claim. After a hit-and-run accident, you should:
1. Call 911
Pull your vehicle to a safe location, if possible, and call 911 immediately. Tell the emergency operator as much as you can remember about the vehicle and driver. 911 calls are recorded. Therefore, the description of the vehicle and the driver will be on record to use later in the accident investigation.
2. Gather Evidence
If it is safe to do so, take photographs of your injuries and your vehicle. Make a video of the accident scene, including the surrounding area. Ask people who stop at the accident scene for their names and contact information. Try to get any information they remember about the accident or the hit-and-run driver.
3. Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial that you seek medical care as soon as possible. You need medical documentation of your injuries for a personal injury claim. If the hit-and-run driver is identified, you want to be able to prove that the crash was the cause of your injuries. If you fail to seek medical attention, the insurance company may also claim that you did not attempt to mitigate damages, which could result in a lower settlement amount.
4. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Call your insurance provider to report the crash and confirm your insurance information. Do not provide a written statement or recorded statement. Even though you might not have been at fault and you are speaking with your insurance provider, you could say something that might hurt your case.
5. Seek Legal Advice
Hit-and-run accident claims can be challenging to prove. You have the burden of proving that another driver caused your car wreck, even though you are filing a claim with your insurance provider for uninsured motorist coverage. When you file a claim, you deal with a claims adjuster whose only goal is to pay as little as possible to settle your claim.
Seeking legal advice as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident is in your best interest. An attorney can search for evidence that proves you did not cause the crash and could identify the hit-and-run driver.
Furthermore, the attorney guides you through the claims process, protects your right to fair compensation, and documents your damages. The lawyer also calculates the correct value of your damages, which is often much higher than the initial settlement offer from an insurance provider.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Maryland Personal Injury Attorney
Hit-and-run accident claims can be difficult to pursue. If a hit-and-run driver caused your car accident, contact our Maryland personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options for recovering compensation for your injuries.